9 Picturesque Valleys In Malta & Gozo

Malta’s mild winters, coupled with the sheer number of valleys, provide the perfect opportunity for a spot of trekking or a casual countryside walk. Ready for some me-time this wintry weekend? Here are 9 picturesque valleys that will delight the country girl/boy within. 

Wied Ta’ Għajn Riħana – Ta’ Zokkrija, Mosta

This picture-perfect valley is a favourite spot for local bird watchers as it’s an untainted spot with many diverse bird species. A freshwater stream forms in springtime, which flows directly into the Salina area sea. 

Wied il-Ħesri – Siggiewi

Situated between the two neighbouring villages of Siggiewi and Zebbug, Wied il-Ħesri makes for a scenic trekking route for all the trekking and nature enthusiasts out there. 

Wied Għammieq – Kalkara

In the southern town of Kalkara lies Wied Għammieq, an oft-forgotten valley off the beaten track. The valley hosts several historical buildings and is close to the derelict yet still impressive Fort Ricasoli. Wied Għammieq is truly Kalkara’s hidden gem. 

Wied Babu – Zurrieq

Wied Babu is popular with locals and tourists alike, as it offers some stunning views of the deep blue Mediterranean sea that this area is known for. It houses a tonne of endemic flora and fauna and is also a famous rock-climbing and trekking spot. 

Wied il-Baħrija – Baħrija

This valley forms part of the protected Tal-Marċa valley system. It houses several endemic species, including the Maltese freshwater crab. Furthermore, a perennial spring characterises this valley and provides fresh water to the surroundings, all year round. 

Wied il-Għasel – Mosta

Wied il-Għasel is situated on the outskirts of the sprawling town of Mosta and provides a well-needed break from the hustle and bustle of this thriving town. According to folklore, bees used to produce so much honey in the past, that this valley’s rocks and cracks used to overflow with honey; thus, the name Wied il-Għasel (Għasel is honey in Maltese). In addition to the numerous species of flora and fauna, the valley is home to three wayside chapels:

1. San Pawl tal-Qlejgha (dedicated to the Shipwreck of St. Paul)
2. Ta’ l-Isperanza
3. San Pawl l-Eremita

Wied Tal-Lunzjata – Kerċem

Back in the 16th and 17th centuries, this Gozitan valley served as the Knights’ hunting playground. Nowadays, Gozitans take pride in Wied il-Lunzjata as it’s one of the few remaining freshwater valleys in Gozo. The site is famous for bird watching since it attracts migratory birds such as egrets, honey buzzards and flycatchers. It also houses the endemic freshwater crab, the predatory leech and several rare snail populations. 

Wied il-Mielaħ – Għarb, Gozo

Wied il-Mielaħ is primarily known for the Wied il-Mielaħ Window – a limestone, naturally-occurring arch situated at the end of the valley. Wied il-Mielaħ is characterised by rugged cliffs which lead to the sea and centuries-old caves. 

Wied il-Għasri – Għasri, Gozo

Wied il-Għasri is another Gozitan wonder that’s popular with locals and tourists alike. First off, it’s known as a diver’s paradise as the surrounding waters are crystal clear and brimming with underwater caves and curiosities. The valley itself winds through the tiny village of Għasri -between the hills of Żebbuġ and Għammar – and is characterised by the Giordan Lighthouse – a Gozitan architectural staple which dates back to the 1800s.