While Malta is famed for its sun-drenched history and idyllic swimming spots, to truly understand the soul of these islands, you must explore them on foot. Beyond the bustling towns and sandy bays lies a coastline of breathtaking drama and wild, windswept beauty. Hiking here is a unique sensory experience, a journey where the scent of wild thyme and fennel mingles with the fresh, salty sea breeze, and every turn in the path reveals another vista of sheer limestone cliffs plunging into the deepest azure waters imaginable.
From my home in the rural village of Mġarr, I am lucky to be surrounded by these landscapes. This is a place where ancient cart ruts scar the limestone, and where history is not confined to museums but is etched into the very coastline in the form of lonely Knights-era watchtowers. This guide is your invitation to step onto these paths and discover the quiet, natural magic of Malta and Gozo, one stunning viewpoint at a time.
1. The Majestic West: Dingli Cliffs to the Blue Grotto
- The Route: Start at the St. Mary Magdalene Chapel, perched at the highest point of the Dingli Cliffs. Follow the coastal road and adjacent footpaths heading south-east towards the prehistoric temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, finishing at Wied iż-Żurrieq, the embarkation point for the Blue Grotto.
- Scenery & Highlights: This is arguably Malta’s most epic and awe-inspiring walk. You’ll be treated to constant, dizzying views from the highest point on the islands (around 253 meters above sea level). The sheer, vertical cliffs drop dramatically into the sea below. Along the way, you’ll pass Clapham Junction’s mysterious cart ruts and finish with the chance to explore two of Malta’s most important Neolithic temple sites before witnessing the magnificent sea caves of the Blue Grotto.
- Difficulty & Length: Moderate. The route is approximately 11-12 km long and is mostly flat or downhill, but it is long and exposed.
- Best For: Landscape photographers, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking for that “end of the world” feeling.
2. The Classic Trio: Golden Bay to Ġnejna Bay
- The Route: A circular or one-way walk starting from the popular Golden Bay. The trail leads up the clay slopes on the southern side of the bay, past the 17th-century Għajn Tuffieħa Tower, down to the beautiful Għajn Tuffieħa Bay, and then further along the headland to the more secluded and rustic Ġnejna Bay.
- Scenery & Highlights: This walk encapsulates the beauty of Malta’s north-west coast. You’ll see the contrast between the popular sandy beaches and the protected, rugged coastline of the Majjistral Nature and History Park. The highlight is the stunning panoramic view from the Għajn Tuffieħa Tower, looking back over the sweeping bays. The unique grey clay slopes create a lunar-like landscape, especially beautiful in the soft light of late afternoon.
- Difficulty & Length: Easy to Moderate. The core walk to Għajn Tuffieħa is short (about 2 km), but continuing to Ġnejna adds another 2-3 km with some steeper, more rugged sections.
- Best For: Everyone. The short walk between Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa is perfect for families, while the full route to Ġnejna appeals to more adventurous walkers.
3. The Northern Loop: The Marfa Peninsula Ridge Walk
- The Route: This circular walk begins near the Għadira Nature Reserve at Mellieħa Bay. The trail takes you up onto the Marfa Ridge, follows it along the peninsula’s spine towards the White Tower (Torri l-Abjad), and loops back around, offering views of both the North and South Comino Channels.
- Scenery & Highlights: This walk offers some of the best panoramic sea views on the island, with stunning vistas of Gozo and Comino. The path is rich in history, passing by several Knights-era watchtowers and remnants of World War II fortifications. It’s a walk through a landscape that has been strategically important for centuries.
- Difficulty & Length: Easy. Approximately 8-9 km on well-defined paths with gentle inclines.
- Best For: History buffs, bird watchers (near the Għadira reserve), and those looking for a relatively easy walk with maximum scenic reward.
4. The Gozitan Giant: Xlendi to the Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs
- The Route: Start in the charming fishing village of Xlendi on Gozo. Follow the path leading up from the right-hand side of the bay towards the Xlendi Tower. Continue along the cliff edge, passing the salt pans, all the way to the majestic Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs.
- Scenery & Highlights: This is a walk of raw, untamed coastal beauty. After the initial climb, the path opens up onto a vast, flat cliff-top that offers a profound sense of space and freedom. The Ta’ Ċenċ cliffs are a dramatic, sheer drop of around 145 meters and are a vital breeding ground for several bird species. The walk provides a different perspective on Gozo, away from the rolling hills and closer to its wild, sea-beaten edge.
- Difficulty & Length: Moderate. Around 6 km one way. The path is flat once you are on the cliff-top, but it is uneven and requires sturdy footing.
- Best For: Nature lovers, bird watchers, and those seeking a feeling of solitude and wildness.
Practical Tips for Hikers in Malta
Before you set out, it’s crucial to be prepared, as the Maltese landscape can be as unforgiving as it is beautiful.
- Choose Your Season Wisely: The best time for hiking in Malta is from late Autumn (October-December) through Winter and into Spring (February-May). During these months, the temperatures are cool and pleasant, and the countryside is at its most lush and green. Hiking in the peak summer months, especially during the searing heat of July and August as we are experiencing now, is strongly discouraged due to the risk of heatstroke and dehydration. If you must walk in summer, go very early in the morning and choose short, shaded routes.
- Sturdy Footwear is Non-Negotiable: The terrain is often rocky, uneven, and covered in loose stones. A good pair of walking shoes or hiking boots with ankle support will protect you from slips and twists. Do not attempt these walks in flip-flops or sandals.
- Water is Critical: There are very few sources of fresh water along these coastal paths. You must carry more water than you think you will need, especially on warmer days. A minimum of 1.5 to 2 litres per person is recommended for a half-day walk.
- Sun Protection is Essential: The Maltese sun is strong year-round. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, use high-SPF sunscreen, and wear sunglasses. Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing is often better than a t-shirt for protecting your skin on long, exposed trails.
- Navigate with Care: While some paths are well-marked, many are not. Use a GPS app on your phone (with a downloaded offline map) or a physical map to keep your bearings. Always let someone know your intended route and expected return time.
Exploring Malta on foot is to connect with the very essence of the island—its rugged resilience, its ancient history, and the ever-present, life-giving sea. It’s a world away from the crowded towns, and it’s waiting to be discovered.