Malta is a sun-soaked Mediterranean archipelago between Sicily and North Africa, renowned for its ancient fortified cities, crystal-clear waters, and 7,000 years of history. This UNESCO World Heritage jewel blends baroque architecture, prehistoric temples, and vibrant coastal life into one of Europe's most captivating destinations.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Dingli Cliffs Coastal Path
A scenic clifftop walk along Malta's highest point at 253 metres, offering dramatic views over the Mediterranean and the tiny island of Filfla. The path runs past the medieval Magdalene Chapel with open countryside on one side and sheer limestone cliffs on the other.
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2
Victoria Lines Walk
A long-distance walk along the 19th-century British defensive fortification wall stretching across the entire width of Malta. The route traverses ridges with panoramic views over the entire island from north to south.
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3
Marfa Ridge to Ras il-Qammieħ
A coastal ridge walk in Malta's far north with stunning views across to Comino and Gozo. The trail passes the Red Tower (St. Agatha's Tower) and continues to dramatic clifftop viewpoints.
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4
Wied Babu Gorge to Ghar Lapsi
A valley walk through one of Malta's prettiest rural gorges with terraced fields, dry stone walls, and ancient carob trees. The trail descends to the secluded swimming cove of Ghar Lapsi.
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5
Gozo Coastal Walk: Xlendi to Dwejra
A stunning coastal walk on Gozo's southern and western cliffs, passing dramatic rock formations and remote bays. The route ends at the geologically dramatic Dwejra Bay and Blue Hole diving site.
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6
Wied il-Ghasri Gorge Descent, Gozo
A dramatic descent through a narrow gorge carved into Gozo's cliffs, ending at a tiny pebble beach and crystal-clear swimming cove. The gorge walls tower above and the turquoise sea glows at the bottom.
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7
Buskett Woodland to Verdala Palace
Malta's only woodland area provides rare shade for walking, with ancient olive groves and Mediterranean scrub surrounding the Verdala Palace hunting lodge. Excellent for birdwatching during migration seasons.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
When to hike
Seasonal conditions in Malta.
- Spring
- March-May is the best hiking season with wildflowers in bloom, mild temperatures of 15-22°C, and green countryside. Spring migration birds add to the experience.
- Summer
- June-August trails are very hot (30-35°C+) with minimal shade. Early morning starts (before 8am) essential; carry at least 2 litres of water.
- Fall
- September-November excellent conditions as temperatures cool to 18-25°C. Sea still warm for post-hike swims; fewer flowers but pleasant walking.
- Winter
- December-February mild at 10-16°C with occasional rain. Trails can be muddy, some coastal paths slippery. Good light for photography and comfortable temperatures.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Hazard: Extreme sun exposure May-September: UV index regularly exceeds 8, wear SPF50+ and a hat
Hazard: Dehydration: very little shade on most Maltese trails, carry minimum 2 litres water in summer
Hazard: Loose limestone: cliff edge paths can have unstable rock, stay on marked routes
Hazard: No marked trails: Malta lacks formal waymarked hiking trails, download GPS routes or use the Malta Hiking app
Hazard: Hunting season: October-January hunters active in rural areas, stay on paths and wear bright colors