Spring in your Step…

Malta has so much to offer to the adventurous traveller at springtime! The Maltese Islands hide many attractions under water, so whether it is snorkelling or diving that you prefer, the surrounding Mediterranean waters offer spectacular underwater views. If you prefer walking or hiking, a must-see attraction is the natural trio of spectacular phenomena – the Azure Window, Inland Sea and Fungus Rock, which are located in Gozo.

A visit to Malta would not be complete without viewing the following:

Dingli Cliffs
This countryside is an ideal site for walking, with the views of Verdala Palace, Buskett Gardens and Filfla Island. The cliffs are few kilometres long and 200 meters high at some points, and these were the island’s natural fortress during the Knights’ occupation. Dingli Cliffs is considered one of the most beautiful locations in Malta, especially at sunset.

Buskett Gardens
This is one of the few woodland areas in Malta. The 30ha site lies south of Rabat and east of Dingli, and many different trees and shrubs grow in the area. These gardens were originally planted by the Knights Hospitaller as a hunting ground. Enjoy a stroll around these beautiful gardens while enjoying the cool shade and tranquil surroundings.

Marsaxlokk Saline Marshland
There are only six salt marsh habitats in a good condition on the Islands. Due to the very limited number, great importance is paid to this natural heritage. These sites are recognized as conservation areas. The Marsaxlokk Saline Marshlands were listed as Nature Reserve in 1983. They evolved in an isolated area on sediments overplayed with surface water. This is a process which happens during the growth season. The distance between the sea and the Saline Marshland is very important as they are the link between the marine, freshwater and terrestrial environments.

Manikata
Manikata, located in the Northern part of Malta, within the limits of Mellieha is run by a group of local farmers and its residents known as Koperattiva Rurali Manikata (KRM). The group was set up in order to protect the locality and to maintain its natural beauty. The organization is currently working on four projects. These are management of the Rural Heritage Trail, the restoration of Razzett tal-Qasan and the Armoury and the promotion of local products.

The Historic Farmstead (Ir-Razzett tal-Qasan) is a relatively large rural  complex comprised of caves and rooms, many of which are now in ruins. Although most of these rooms originated during the Knights’ period, it is believed that some of these date back to medieval times, when they were
used by farmers. The Heritage Trail is an educational visitor programme for students and adults, which allows visitors to experience Maltese nature and agriculture. The trail includes a walk, viewing of historical and archeological sites, and a taste of local Maltese bread, as well as an opportunity to buy some of the locally produced foods. You might want to consider visiting the Majjistral Nature and History Park which borders with Manikata, and is known as the first Natural Park set up on the Maltese Islands. The beauty of this area gives its visitors a rare experience in very developed Malta; of walking through historical and natural sites. Manikata is located in the Northwest Malta and includes the coastal area from Golden Bay to il-Prajjet and ix- Xagħra l-Ħamra. This park includes 6 km of designated Natura 2000 area, historical and archeological site.

If you would like to view some of these interesting places during your holiday in Malta, contact our Transport Desk and they will organise interesting self guided tours for you.

Photos courtesy of Maurizio Modena & Viewing Malta