Popeye Village (Sweethaven Village): A Whimsical Escape to Malta’s Film Set Paradise🎬🌊

#springitinerary **Why You MUST Visit:** Built for the 1980 musical *Popeye* starring Robin Williams, this **quirky, colorful fishing village** is now one of Malta’s most Instagrammable spots. With its **wooden cabins, turquoise bay, and playful vibe**, it’s perfect for families, film buffs, and anyone craving nostalgia! --- ## **📅 Perfect Day at Popeye Village Itinerary** ### **🌞 Morning: Explore the Film Set & Bay** **🕘 9:30 AM – Arrive Early** (Opens at 9:30 AM, least crowded!) - Walk through the **20 original wooden houses** (see Popeye’s home, the schoolhouse, and the tavern). - Meet **costumed characters** (Popeye, Olive Oyl, and Bluto for photos!). **📸 10:30 AM – Best Photo Spots** - The **village viewpoint** (panoramic shot of the bay). - **Inside the cabins** (fun, interactive sets). - **Anchor Bay’s crystal-clear water** (bright blue backdrop). **🚣 11:30 AM – Boat Ride & Swimming** - Hop on a **traditional *luzzu* boat** (short tour of the bay). - Swim in the **protected cove** (calm, shallow waters). --- ### **🍔 Midday: Lunch with a View** **🕧 12:30 PM – Eat at the Village** - Try **Maltese ftira sandwiches** or kid-friendly burgers at the **Popeye-themed snack bar**. - **Pro Tip:** Bring a picnic to eat by the water (more budget-friendly!). --- ### **🎭 Afternoon: Fun Activities** **🕐 1:30 PM – Animation Shows & Workshops** - Watch **short comedy skits** (Popeye & friends in action!). - Kids can join **face painting or craft workshops**. **🕒 3:00 PM – More Swimming or Kayaking** - Rent a **kayak or paddleboard** (explore nearby caves). - Relax on the **small sandy beach**. --- ### **🌅 Evening: Sunset Magic** **🕠 5:30 PM – Golden Hour Photos** - The village glows in the late afternoon light—**perfect for portraits!** **🍦 6:00 PM – Ice Cream & Goodbyes** - Grab a sundae at the **village ice cream parlor** before heading out. --- ## **💡 Insider Tips** ✔ **Best Time to Visit:** **Weekday mornings** (fewer crowds). ✔ **Avoid Peak Hours:** 12 PM - 3 PM (tourist buses arrive). ✔ **Ticket Hack:** Buy **online in advance** (€15 vs. €20 at the door). ✔ **Combine With:** **Golden Bay** (5-min drive, one of Malta’s best beaches). --- ## **🚌 Getting There** - **By Car:** 30 min from Valletta (free parking on-site). - **By Bus:** 101 or 221 to Mellieħa, then a short taxi ride. - **By Boat:** Scenic **ferry from Ċirkewwa** (summer only). --- ### **🎥 Why You’ll Love It:** This place is **pure joy**—whether you’re reliving childhood memories or making new ones. It’s **kitschy, cute, and uniquely Maltese**!