Say hello to hiking season with these 3 hikes for all abilities around Malta & Gozo
As the days get cooler and the islands’ countryside gets greener, we’re all set for hiking season! Not sure where to go? Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a pleasant country hike, we’ve got you covered, with a little help from the experts at outdoor and adventure shop Mochika. Here are three hikes to attempt around Malta and Gozo, starting from easy and progressing to some seriously challenging terrain!
Easy Hike: Xghajra to Zonqor
This easy trail in the south of the island is great for a quick hike and is especially beautiful at sunrise, we’re told! There are no hills to contend with and the terrain is mildly rough, making it a great introduction to rougher walking.
The route: Park at Smart City in Kalkara and make your way all along the coast of Xghajra, past Ta' Barkat Sewage Treatment Plant, and onwards on a path parallel to the coastline, to Triq Il-Wiesgħa Tower, a 17th century De Redin tower. Keep following the path to Zonqor Point. If you’re tight on time, loop back to Smart City. This whole loop should take you a bit less than two hours to complete.
BONUS: If you’re up for a longer hike, keep going all along the coast of Marsascala, onwards to St Thomas Bay and around the beautiful Munxar headland!
Mochika shoe recommendation: Salomon X-Reveal
“The terrain on this hike is slightly rough, so a light pair of hiking shoes will do the trick nicely! With a modern, athletic look, the X REVEAL focuses on keeping you comfortable with a generous, cushy fit. The lightweight construction is packed with outdoor essentials – including extra grip from an optimized Contragrip outsole – to keep you on track.”
Medium Hike: Wied Qirda
This valley system, which spans the villages of Qormi, Siġġiewi and Żebbuġ, is a spectacular spot for some rough hiking! And while it rarely features in the top hiking spots of Malta, it’s a pity – considering it’s one of the islands’ largest valley systems, with unexpectedly steep gorges on both sides.
The route: A good starting point would be from the Qormi side, at Wied il-Kbir. Keep walking along the tarmacked road into the valley. At one point, you will get to a Y-Junction (the valley is Y-Shaped!), with both road options heading into the rough valley bed. This hike gives you several exploration options. Don’t be afraid to follow the valley bed to see where it takes you – though be prepared that it can get rocky and slippery at times, so make sure you wear a stable pair of shoes. Allow sufficient time for the hike, particularly if it’s your first time exploring the valley. We would say around three hours will get you round most of the valley. If hiking late, pack a headlamp!
Mochika shoe recommendation: Salomon X-Ultra 3 Mid GTX
“If you follow the valley bed, you are in for a lot of rough terrain. The X-Ultra 3 Mid gives you excellent stability and grip, in a lightweight package. This boots almost fits like a running shoe and is complemented with a Gore-Tex membrane to keep your feet dry.”
Hard Hike: Round Gozo
If you’re looking for a challenge, why not consider a spectacular hike going all around the island of Gozo? If you’re in for the whole perimeter of the sister isle, you’ll be treated to a huge variety of terrains from beaches to cliffs, clay slopes to rocky garigue. We hear that travellers often refer to this as one of their favourite hikes! If you’re a little unsure, do it in three days to make it easy. Up for a challenging trek? Do it in two days. Looking to suffer? Do it in one – the guys at Mochika say it’s totally doable, if you put your mind to it!
The route: You should be able to hike along most of the perimeter of the island using a network of paths and roads. We would advise using your judgement (and Google Maps) whilst being prepared to take alternative routes to bypass private land, quarries, and dangerous parts.
BONUS: Not up for the whole perimeter? Just pick any section of the perimeter of Gozo, all parts are equally stunning!
Mochika shoe recommendation: Salomon Quest
“One of the best-selling backpacking boots on the market, the Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX is all about walking comfort, with technologies to reduce fatigue over the duration of your treks. Light and cushioned with running shoe adapted technology, yet supportive enough for backpacking, this boot helps you tackle a hard hike like the round Gozo with happier feet!”
If you’re looking for the perfect running or hiking shoe, or any other sporting and camping equipment, we can't recommend the guys at Mochika enough! Apart from fantastic products that deliver the goods, the service is knowledgeable and friendly, thanks to their passion for the great outdoors – read about their specialised shoe fitting experience here.