The best walks and hikes in Malta

Malta offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 340 routes recorded on komoot. These range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, ensuring options for all fitness levels.

Malta's mild climate, with approximately 300 days of sunshine annually, makes it suitable for hiking year-round. However, the cooler months from autumn to spring (October to May) are generally preferred for more comfortable hiking, as summer temperatures can be quite high.

Yes, Malta has many easy routes suitable for families. For instance, the Mdina Gate – Mdina Old Town loop from Mdina is an easy 5.6 km path that allows families to explore the historic city without significant elevation gain. Many coastal paths also offer gentle terrain and scenic views.

Many outdoor areas and trails in Malta are dog-friendly, especially in natural parks and along coastal paths. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash and be mindful of local regulations, particularly in protected areas or near historical sites.

Malta's diverse landscapes include dramatic limestone cliffs, rugged inland terrain, and coastal paths with views of the Mediterranean Sea. You'll encounter unique geological formations, rocky scrubland, hidden valleys, and ancient historical sites intertwined with natural beauty. The Buskett Gardens (Woodland) – View of the Dingli Cliffs loop from Siġġiewi offers a great mix of woodlands and stunning cliff views.

Yes, many of Malta's hiking trails are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Għajn Tuffieħa Bay – Gnejna Bay loop from Manikata, which offers beautiful coastal scenery, and the View of Gozo – Crystal Lagoon loop from Kemmuna on the island of Comino.

Malta's hiking routes often pass through areas rich in history. You can explore ancient ruins, Punic caves, and tombs along trails like the Xemxija Heritage Trail. The Upper Barrakka Gardens – In the streets of Valletta loop from Valletta takes you through the historic capital. You might also encounter watchtowers, forts, and even UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Hagar Qim near the Dingli Cliffs. For specific historical points of interest, consider visiting St. Agatha's Tower (Red Tower) or The Cittadella in Victoria (Gozo Citadel).

Malta has a comprehensive public transport network, making many trailheads accessible by bus. Popular hiking areas like the Dingli Cliffs, Il-Majjistral Nature Park, and Golden Bay often have nearby bus stops. Planning your route with public transport in mind is recommended, especially for linear walks.

Yes, many hiking areas in Malta are close to towns or villages offering cafes, pubs, and accommodation. For example, areas around Dingli Cliffs, Il-Majjistral Nature Park, and Xlendi in Gozo have various options for refreshments and overnight stays, allowing you to combine your hike with local culinary experiences.

The komoot community highly rates hiking in Malta, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 2,100 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning coastal views, the blend of natural beauty with historical sites, and the variety of trails suitable for different abilities. The well-marked paths and the opportunity to discover hidden coves are frequently highlighted.

While Malta's islands are relatively small, you can find longer routes, particularly on Gozo. The Gozo Coastal Walk, for instance, is an extensive trail that encircles the entire island, offering a multi-day hiking experience with rugged cliffs, tranquil beaches, and historical sites. On the main island, the Munxar Peninsula – View of Ponta tal-Grigal loop from Zabbar is a challenging 25.8 km route.

Coastal trails in Malta offer dramatic sea views, towering limestone cliffs, and often lead to hidden coves and natural rock formations. Inland trails, on the other hand, traverse rocky scrubland, terraced farms, and hidden valleys, providing a contrasting experience with more focus on the island's unique flora, fauna, and ancient historical remnants away from the sea.