This is post 5/9 in our Malta series. Why not read them now?
Although Malta may be small, it certainly doesn’t lack in beauty. From prehistoric temples to glittering coves, Malta is home to some of the most breath-taking sites in Europe. Whilst some of the popular beach resorts may be becoming slightly overcrowded, there are areas of Malta that have side stepped the influence of tourism. They exist in their own little timeless bubble!
One such destination is The Dingli Cliffs which can be found on the western coast of Malta. Framed by the ancient villages of Mdina, Rabat and Dingli, the cliffs rise up 253 meters above sea level offering jaw dropping views across the horizon. Off the beaten track, the Dingli Cliffs drive is a great opportunity to see a secret side of Malta.
The Dingli Cliffs are easily accessed by car. Start your drive by passing through town of Rabat.
Head towards the town of Rabat through the picturesque countryside of western Malta. The history of Rabat and the neighbouring town of Mdina date back nearly 4000 years. They are still home to Malta’s noble families.
Whilst Mdina is home to one of Europe’s finest examples of a walled city, the extraordinary mix of medieval and baroque architecture in Rabat makes it a prime source of Malta’s cultural heritage. Be sure to visit St Paul’s Grotto and admire the mosaics at the Roman Villa.
Continue towards the coast through village of Dingli.
Once you’ve had your fill of the historic sites in Rabat, hop back in your car and continue your drive to the village of Dingli. Although, like Rabat and Mdina, the village of Dingli has an extensive history it is somewhat smaller in size.
Despite being petite, it is no less picturesque and visitors can enjoy a stroll around the old winding streets. Make sure that you also enjoy the views over nearby Buskett Gardens, the only green woodland in Malta. Verdala Palace the President of Malta’s summer residence should also not be missed.
Walk from Dingli to the cliffs for breath taking views across sparkling blue sea.
The countryside around Dingli is ideal for walking but the views over the cliffs are by far the main attraction! Make the short walk to the cliffs edge from the village to enjoy the breath-taking views across the Mediterranean Sea and the islet of Filfa.
However, watch your step and avoid getting too close to the edge! It is a sheer drop to the ocean and it’s a long way down!
Return to village via Clapham Junction cart ruts and Buskett Gardens.
If you’ve got some time to spare, on your walk back to Dingli village stop by at the historic sites Clapham Junction and Buskett Gardens.
Clapham Junction: Nicknamed after the complex network of tracks at the London train station, these ancient cart tracks are one of Malta’s unsolved mysteries. The tracks are a series of ruts dug into the rock and run in all different directions covering a significant area of 8 hectares. Be sure to stop by to see if you can come up with a theory of their original purpose!
Buskett Gardens: Initially planted by the Knights of St John as a hunting ground, Buskett Gardens is now one of the greenest areas in Malta. The gardens are home to orange trees, cactus, Mediterranean pines and cypress trees as well as vineyards, olive and lemon groves. Enjoy a stroll along the paths decorated with colourful shrubs and flowers that wind their way through the gardens.
Pick a spot in the village to watch the sunset over the horizon.
Finish the day back at Dingli Village where you can spend the evening enjoying traditional Maltese cuisine at one of the cliff top restaurants. Enjoy watching the sunset over the horizon too. Due to the height and location of Dingli Cliffs, you’ll be hard pressed to find better sunset views anywhere else in Malta!
So, if you fancy discovering the delights of Dingli Cliffs or have some other scenic destinations in mind, don’t forget to book your hire car for your trip to Malta! The island has so many wonderful sights to see and the best way to find them is often by car.
Got any suggestions on scenic drives or your favourite sights in Malta? Leave us a comment; we’d love to hear your recommendations!
