Gozo: The Cyclist's Paradise
For a truly serene cycling experience, Malta's sister island, Gozo, is the undisputed champion. With significantly less traffic, a network of rural tracks, and a more tranquil pace of life, it's where you can fully appreciate the Mediterranean landscape
on two wheels. The island is hilly, which presents a rewarding challenge for fit riders, but the widespread availability of e-bikes makes its stunning routes accessible to everyone. An entire loop of the island can be done in a day, but it's best enjoyed over a few days to soak in the views and visit the many attractions.
The North Gozo Coastal Route
A popular and relatively flat route on Gozo takes you along the northern coast. Starting from the village of Marsalforn, you can follow the road west past the fascinating Xwejni Salt Pans, a chequerboard of pools carved into the rock that have been harvested since Roman times. The route offers constant sea views and leads towards Wied il-Għasri, a secluded gorge where you can descend for a swim in a narrow channel of turquoise water. This ride is particularly beautiful in the late afternoon when the sun makes the salt pans glow.
Malta's Wild West: Dingli Cliffs
On the main island of Malta, the route along the Dingli Cliffs offers some of the most dramatic scenery available. As the highest point in Malta, this area provides spectacular, uninterrupted views of the sea and the tiny, uninhabited island of Filfla. Starting from the historic 'Silent City' of Mdina, a gentle 10km ride takes you through quiet villages and rural landscapes before you reach the majestic cliffs. The ride is relatively easy, making it suitable for families and casual cyclists. For a longer adventure, guided tours often start at Dingli and descend through rolling countryside to finish at the beautiful Golden Bay.
The Northern Stretch: Mellieħa to Ċirkewwa
In the north of Malta, the road from Mellieħa to Ċirkewwa (where the Gozo ferry departs) is another scenic and relatively quiet option. This area includes some beautiful coastal stretches and gives you access to several points of interest. A popular 10km loop from Mellieħa takes you past Anchor Bay, home to the quirky Popeye Village film set. The region is also near Il-Majjistral Nature and History Park, which has trails suitable for mountain biking amidst wild, untamed landscape.
Southern Sights: Blue Grotto and Marsaxlokk
The south of Malta offers moderately hilly routes that connect several iconic locations. A popular 15km ride combines coastal views with incredible history. You can cycle near the stunning Blue Grotto, and it's worth taking a short boat trip from Wied iż-Żurrieq to see the sea caves up close. The route can also incorporate visits to the prehistoric temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, which date back over 5,000 years, before finishing in the colourful fishing village of Marsaxlokk.
Tips for Cycling in Malta
While dedicated cycle lanes are not widespread, the experience is rewarding if you plan your route. Autumn through spring offers the most pleasant weather for cycling, as summers can be very hot. E-bikes are highly recommended, especially for Gozo's hills and Malta's rolling terrain. Bike rental shops are readily available in tourist areas like Sliema, Buġibba, and Victoria on Gozo, with daily rates for standard and electric bikes. For the quietest roads on the main island, try heading out for a ride early on a Sunday morning.
