Wandering in Malta

The Azure Window is a limestone arch looming magnificently on the shores of Dwejra Bay. This is without a doubt the island’s most famous natural feature.

With its rocky shoreline, glistening waves, and the Inland Sea—a mysterious lagoon connected to the open sea via a natural tunnel—the location is still stunning even though the Azure Window collapsed into the sea during a storm in 2017.

One of the biggest wooded areas in Malta is Buskett Gardens. Originally the gardens of Verdala Palace, which Grand Master de Verdalle constructed in 1586, are now the President of Malta’s summer home. The gardens, which were originally used as a hunting reserve, are surrounded by a valley with a running stream and feature orchards and wild woodland.

You will ultimately come onto one of Malta’s most secluded and picturesque bays on the fringes of the rural village of Bahrija, Fomm ir-Rin. Traveling via winding country roads through an apparent wilderness with breathtaking views, walk down a steep slope that leads to the bay, Fomm ir-Rin, the mouth of the wind, which has a pebble beach encircled by magnificent cliffs.

Visit the Ggantija Temples, one of the oldest freestanding buildings in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site, to fully immerse yourself in history. Gozo’s great historical significance is demonstrated by these megalithic monuments, dating back to 3600 BC. The temples are surrounded by a verdant landscape that offers visitors a tranquil and ethereal ambiance.

Ghar il-Kbir, which means “the vast cave," is a collection of subterranean caverns that were formerly home to troglodytes.

Clapham Junction, a curious network of cart ruts that resembles the crisscrossing lines of a railway station, is located nearby.

Gozo is a stunning island with natural beauty as well as places of worship and culture. The Ta’ Pinu Basilica, a Roman Catholic church in a rural area, is one such location; with stunning views of the surroundings, it is a well-liked pilgrimage site. To enjoy the island’s rustic beauty, you can also take a leisurely stroll among the surrounding fields and vineyards.

In 2007, the northwest of Malta, from Golden Bay to ix-Xagħra l-Hamra, was designated as a national park. Natural ecosystems, agricultural pursuits, and historical and archaeological monuments are all included in Majjistral Nature and History Park.

Even though the woodland area is actually quite small, locals enjoy camping in L-ahrax Tal-Mellieha. This condensed area of Malta’s nature, complete with cliffs and secret swimming coves, has added the awesome views of the village, Melliena Bay, and the Red Tower. Additionally, it is a great place for picnics and strolls along the shore and into the forest.

Spend some time exploring the unique salt pans next to Marsalforn, a fishing community. Carved into rocks along the shore, these traditional salt pans have been used for centuries to collect sea salt. Particularly at sunrise or sunset, the geometric designs of the pans provide a breathtaking spectacle.

Ramla Bay is one of Gozo’s most stunning beaches, known for its distinctive reddish-gold sand. It is a secluded and tranquil retreat surrounded by hills and lush farmland. You can enjoy sunbathing and swimming.

Tour the neighboring Calypso Cave, thought to be the same cave referenced in Homer’s "Odyssey."

Xlendi is a lovely town surrounded by the gorgeous, glistening waters of Xlendi Bay. Towering cliffs surround the bay, providing an amazing vista and a perfect place to relax. The cliffs and caverns can be explored by boat or kayak.

The Xemxija Heritage Trail follows a path with punic tombs on one side and temple remnants on the other, along a Roman Road to the rock-cut apiaries and past a 1,000-year-old carob tree. From here, you can head north to a ridge where the Roman baths are located, or you can head west into Mizip Forest.