Tas-Sellum’s luxury holiday apartments are located in an up-scale, quiet residential neighbourhood. There is direct access to the sea by a set of steps near the pool area. 500-metres from the apartments is Mellieha Bay beach, the longest in Malta. The beach is ideal for families and water sports lovers. The warm, calm, nearly current free, shallow water means that children and timid swimmers can enjoy the sea safely. Every imaginable water activity is available at the beach, including canoeing, windsurfing, water-skiing, snorkelling, and kite surfing. The blow up water platform a little bit out in the sea is always extremely popular with children. The beach has plenty of space to spread out and relax, even during peak times. It has three distinct sections with the section furthest to the right the most quiet and the middle section being where you’ll find all of the activities. Another excellent beach, Golden Bay, is located nearly 7 kilometres away; just a short drive.
On the other side of the road from Mellieha Bay, you’ll find Ghadira Nature Reserve. It is home to wetland habitats that are particularly good for birdwatching and spotting rare plants. The reserve is run completely by volunteers who work hard to protect this precious natural environment. They are very knowledgeable and happy to answer any of your questions about the plants and animals you may see.
Even though the self-catering apartments are located in a quiet, residential neighbourhood there are plenty of amenities nearby. You’ll find fine dining and more budget friendly options if you prefer to eat out. Bouquet Garni is one of the best restaurants in Mellieha, serving Mediterranean cuisine and fresh seafood offers upscale dining and is highly rated. For an afternoon treat or lunch Debbie’s Café serves up fantastic cakes and freshly made sandwiches. Half Way Inn Bar & Restaurant is a good budget friendly option, while Commando is good for a mixture of different cooking styles. Tosca with quench your cravings for something Italian and Da Ciccio Cucina may be small in size, but its pizza and big portions always win over its customers.
Hugging the coast nestled between rugged hills and the sea is Malta’s Popeye Village. The village started life in 1980 when it was built as a film set for the musical film ‘Popeye.’ It is one of the most loved family attractions in Malta. Popeye himself will welcome visitors to the village and he and his friends will be happy to pose for photos. The village has several family activities, including boat trips, animation shows, the Popeye and Comic Museum, a cinema, and an indoor play area.
There are three historic sites of particular interest nearby. The Mellieha Air Raid shelter is a fascinating look into the lives of the local people during World War II. The series of tunnels was dug by hand and includes the basic and rough living quarters that the people used to stay safe during the war. It even had its own maternity unit. The Parish Church of Mellieha was built at the end of the 19th century and stands proudly over the town. The church’s architecture is beautiful and ornate, something that can be appreciated regardless of your personal beliefs. At the church is the older Sanctuary of Our Lady. Inside are beautiful paintings that date back hundreds of years. It is a place of pilgrimage, as it is believed that the water there has miracle healing powers. It is a lovely place to spend some quiet contemplation in its peaceful atmosphere.
Built in the mid-17th century St. Agatha’s Tower is a majestic square structure, also called The Red Tower; a name given for its red painted exterior. The tower was built as a defensive building and thus commands amazing views of the surrounding area and even Gozo. When completed it could house 30 men who could survive within for a siege of up to 40 days. The walls are extremely sturdy at four-metres thick.