Malta is known for its vibrant nightlife, abundance of beaches, and gorgeous Mediterranean views, but beyond the lively nightclubs and sunny days, Malta hides a completely different side: it offers fantastic opportunities to walk on the wild side.
If you’re visiting Malta and want to experience a side of the island that few tourists venture to, Number 11 – Handwritten Collection is your perfect base.
Malta offers hiking opportunities throughout the year, although each season brings its own charm. January and February are generally cooler and wetter, making waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear essential, while the first wildflowers begin to appear. March and April are among the best months for hiking, with mild temperatures, longer daylight hours and colourful landscapes in full bloom. May and June bring warmer weather, making early morning hikes ideal, especially for those looking to enjoy a sunrise before heading to the beach. During July and August, temperatures can soar above 40°C, so strenuous hikes are best avoided, with short, easy walks reserved for cooler conditions. September remains warm, making early starts advisable, while October welcomes cooler autumn weather and beautiful scenery, although occasional heavy rain and strong winds call for extra caution, especially along coastal trails. November and December offer quieter trails with fewer visitors, making them ideal for those seeking a more peaceful hiking experience. However, with unpredictable weather and occasional heavy downpours, it’s best to hike with a companion and check the forecast before setting off.
The Maltese terrain is notorious for being a little difficult to navigate, but if you’re new to hiking or you want to take the easy route while on holiday, there are still some options to consider for your first hiking trail in Malta.
A roughly 4km long route, this trail goes through some of the aquaculture systems built by the British in the late 19th century, with a mostly flat gravel pathway to navigate. Come after the first rains, and you’ll be able to see some of the local flora on the site, including the Maltese freshwater crab and the Mediterranean willow. It’s a gentle, sloping walk around the water’s edge, heavily shaded by carob and willow trees, and a perfect route for hikers looking for something a little easier to start with.
Time to complete: 1 hour.
Densely packed with archaeological features, the Xemxija Hill Heritage Walk opens up with a steep climb up an old Roman road, but that’s where the difficulty ends. Once at the very top, it’s a leisurely stroll through a plateau that is crammed with archaeological discoveries such as Roman apiaries, a Neolithic burial site, and a reconstructed Bronze Age village. The local council in Xemxija has helpfully placed markers next to each landmark, but it’s recommended you download a map to make sure you don’t miss anything.
Time to complete: 2 hours.
An arboreal enthusiast? The Wied Għollieqa Nature Reserve hosts a grove of the last remaining indigenous Mediterranean sandarac gum trees, and serves as an excellent introduction to native Maltese flora. Come in October, and there’s an additional treat: it’s a great place to birdwatch, with some of the valley’s frequent visitors including the grey wagtail, the robin, and the common chiffchaff.
Time to complete: 45 minutes
If you’re a history and hiking enthusiast, this is the trail for you. This track takes you along the top of a 19th century military wall built during the British era, right across the top of a natural fault line. Starting from the gorgeous Għargħur viewpoint, Top of the World, you’ll follow the stone wall down and across a rugged ridge, with incredible, non-stop views all the way to the northern coast.
It’s a complex trail bordering residential areas, so make sure you pack a map and try to stick to the marked path as best you can.
Time to complete: 3 hours.
Tucked away by Golden Bay, this hiking trail is located in Malta’s first national park and rises and falls through a series of natural gullies and dunes. The landscape is full of wild thyme and old corbelled stone huts, and at the highest point you can see the Mediterranean Sea in full glory.
Because of its high elevation, please ensure that you stay well back from the cliff edges, especially in high winds, and pack a water bottle to stay hydrated.
Time to complete: 4 hours.
After your hike, head back to the hotel and focus on the real business: enjoying yourself.
Get the best of both worlds at Number 11 – Handwritten Collection, right on the edge of Malta’s best nightlife district: try a different cuisine every night, or head back to the hotel to enjoy our in-house restaurant and many varied events.
Ready to swap the trails for the best of St Julian’s? Book your stay at Number 11 – Handwritten Collection today.
