MARVELLOUS MALTA on two wheels

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Malta, a compact Mediterranean archipelago comprising the islands of Malta, Gozo, and Comino, is an appealing destination for cycling tourists due to its mild climate, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. With over 300 sunny days annually, varied terrain ranging from coastal paths to hilly countryside, and a growing cycling infrastructure, Malta offers a unique blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. 

Cycling tourists in Malta can anticipate a rewarding experience combining scenic routes, cultural exploration, and a welcoming environment, though the island’s compact size and infrastructure present both opportunities and challenges. 

Malta’s small size (122 sq mi) makes it bikeable end-to-end in a day, with pedestrianised areas in Valletta ideal for cycling exploration. The Malta Transport Authority continues to improve cycle lanes, with new paths planned for 2025 in northern Malta (Mellieħa, St. Paul’s Bay) and Gozo’s Victoria hub, building on previous funding. These aim to connect rural and coastal areas, reducing reliance on busy roads.

EuroVelo 7’s certification process is progressing, with sections expected to gain “Developed with EuroVelo signs” status by late 2025, improving signage and safety for long-distance cyclists.

Malta’s 2025 tourism strategy emphasizes eco-friendly transport, promoting cycling as a climate-friendly alternative. Nextbike Malta is expanding its bike-sharing network to additional towns like Naxxar and Vittoriosa, with more e-bikes to support sustainable exploration.

The €5m Marsaxlokk regeneration project, completed in 2023, enhanced the fishing village’s infrastructure, adding cyclist-friendly pedestrian zones and harbor paths, making it a picturesque stop for 2025 rides.

Team Polti VisitMalta 2025, an Italian cycling team, sponsored by VisitMalta, will promote the archipelago through international races, raising Malta’s profile as a cycling destination. Expect associated local events or guided tours tied to their campaign.

New guided cycling tours are emerging, focusing on off-the-beaten-track routes like Chadwick Lakes and Wied il-Mielaħ, blending history (e.g., visits to St. Cataldus Catacombs) with nature. These cater to small groups for a personalized experience.

Malta’s digital tourism roadmap includes apps and platforms for 2025, enhancing route planning. Nextbike’s app now offers real-time bike availability and subscription plans (unlimited 30-minute rides), while Bikemap and Komoot are integrating more Malta-specific routes with user-generated tips.

VisitMalta.com is planning to launch a cycling-focused section, providing downloadable maps and event calendars.

New “cycle and wellness” retreats combine cycling with yoga or meditation, particularly on Gozo, where rural routes complement holistic programs like Paola’s Body Barre. These retreats target spring and autumn visitors to avoid peak crowds.

The Taste History project, collaborating with Michelin-starred restaurants, introduces cyclist-friendly dining stops in 2025, offering historical Maltese dishes (e.g., rabbit or pasta) along scenic routes like Mdina or Marsaxlokk.

  • Terrain: Malta’s 316 km² landscape offers flat coastal paths, rolling hills, and challenging climbs, particularly in the northwest and on Gozo. Expect stunning views of the Mediterranean, limestone cliffs, and rural villages framed by rubble walls. Notable routes include the West Coast’s Blue Grotto and Dingli Cliffs (Malta’s highest point) and Gozo’s quieter, greener trails.
  • Route Variety: Options range from leisurely rides along Sliema’s waterfront to rugged off-road trails in areas like Buskett Gardens. The EuroVelo 7 Sun Route, though under development, connects key sites like Valletta and Mdina. Routes often pass UNESCO sites, ancient temples (e.g., Ġgantija), and quaint fishing villages like Marsaxlokk.
  • Cultural Integration: Cycling allows easy access to Malta’s 7,000-year history, with stops at megalithic temples, baroque churches, and fortified cities like Birgu. The annual Żabbar village feast (first Sunday after 8 September) features a bicycle pilgrimage to the Madonna tal-Grazzja, the patron of cyclists, adding a cultural highlight.
  • Bike Lanes: Recent investments have expanded cycle lanes, particularly in urban areas like Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s, though some routes remain under development. Cyclists should stick to roads, as pavement cycling is prohibited for those over 12, except on designated paths.
  • Bike Rentals: Affordable bike rentals (around €15/day) are widely available, with public bike-sharing systems like Nextbike Malta offering 24/7 access in areas such as Pembroke, Gżira, and Bugibba. E-bikes and electric scooters are popular for tackling hills or longer distances.
  • Ferry Connections: Ferries between Malta (Ċirkewwa) and Gozo (Mġarr) or Comino (via Round Malta ferry from Valletta) accommodate bikes, making multi-island tours seamless. The 45-minute Malta-Gozo ferry runs hourly, even in low season.
  • Road Conditions: Malta’s narrow roads require caution, especially outside Valletta. Cyclists should wear helmets, use lights, and avoid busy highways, opting for public transport to skip non-developed stretches of routes like EuroVelo 7.
  • Traffic: Heavy traffic, particularly in Valletta and during weekends (e.g., 45 minutes for a 13-km drive to Marsaxlokk), can affect cycling in urban areas. Rural routes on Gozo or northern Malta are quieter.
  • Weather: The Mediterranean climate (average 30°C in summer, 10–16°C in winter) is ideal for year-round cycling, though summer heat and winter humidity may require hydration planning and rain gear. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer optimal conditions with fewer tourists.
  • Local Culture: Maltese locals are known for their hospitality, and cyclists often encounter friendly interactions in villages. The island’s cycling culture is growing, rooted in traditions like the Żabbar pilgrimage.
  • Cost: Budget-friendly options include bike rentals (€15/day), public transport (bus tickets €2–3, 7-day pass €21), and affordable food like pastizzi (savory pastries).
  • Activities: Combine cycling with swimming at St. Peter’s Pool, diving at Comino’s Blue Grotto, or visiting cultural sites like St. John’s Co-Cathedral, all easily accessible by bike.
  • Booking: Reserve bikes or tours in advance, especially for guided excursions or during shoulder seasons (April–May, September–October). Use apps or websites like Bikemap for planning.
  • Transport: Buses and ferries accommodate bikes, but check schedules on MaltaPublicTransport.com.mt or GozoChannel.com. Renting a car for remote trailheads (e.g., Fomm ir-Riħ) enhances flexibility.
  • Gear: Bring helmets, water bottles, and sunblock. Rentals typically provide locks and basic repair kits. Wear bright clothing for visibility on roads.
  • Costs: Expect €15–25/day for rentals, €40–60 for guided tours. Budget meals (pastizzi €0.50–€1) and bus passes (€21/week) keep costs low.
  • Pair cycling with visits to hidden gems like Fomm ir-Riħ Bay (accessible via trails from Bahrija), Chadwick Lakes (near Rabat for a serene ride), Wied il-Mielaħ’s sea arch (Gozo’s northwest), or St. Cataldus Catacombs (Rabat’s underground history). These enhance the adventure with minimal crowds.
  • Explore Comino’s car-free paths for a unique cycling experience, reachable by ferry with a bike.
  • Be mindful of Malta’s eco-tax (€0.50/adult/night, max €5/stay) at accommodations, supporting sustainable tourism.

Cycling tourists in Malta can expect a vibrant mix of scenic rides, cultural immersion, and improving infrastructure, with new cycle lanes, sustainable initiatives, and events. The archipelago’s compact size, mild climate, and historical richness make it ideal for exploring by bike, from Valletta’s pedestrianized streets to Gozo’s tranquil trails. Top facilities cater to all levels, while off-the-beaten-track routes to places like Fomm ir-Riħ or Wied il-Mielaħ offer unique adventures.

  • Aer Lingus and Ryanair both fly direct from Dublin to Malta. Ryanair also flies from Belfast and Shannon while Jet2 flies from Belfast. Visitmalta.com offers trail maps and event updates. 
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