Seriously underrated, discover the true magnificence of these off the beaten track places in Malta and Gozo.
Jürgen Scicluna/MTA via viewingmalta.com
They're in there, one or two sentences in small print. But these places, while overshadowed by more acclaimed monuments and heritage, are truly marvellous. If it were not that Malta is so rich with wonderful attractions, these hidden locations would be even more prominently announced in your guide book. The best part is that, when you find these underrated places of interest, they won't be overrun by visitors. Find your sense of adventure, get off the beaten path and begin exploring!
1. The Arch at Wied il-Mielah, Gozo
All that fuss about the Azure Window, and this one hardly given a mention. It begins to spark interest only now that the other is gone back to the elements, although it is no less impressive standing on the edge of a beautiful deep valley.
2. L-Ghar il-Kbir & the Clapham Junction, Siggiewi
In Siggiewi, on the edge of Buskett Forest, hidden from sight upon a hill that's private property (with free access) is a complex of caves that was inhabited by a community until fairly recently. L-Ghar il-Kbir means 'the big cave.'
Nearby L-Ghar il-Kbir caves are a series of mysterious cart ruts. Several deep, parallel grooves are hewn in the ground and crisscross each other such that they were coined 'the Clapham Junction' by an Englishman, after the famous London railway station.
3. Wied il-Ghasri, Gozo
Here's a wonderful natural feature in the land, where a valley gives way to a pebble beach and a narrow snake of water leading to the open sea. To top this visit, about 200m east is a large water cave with an arch that you can swim into; look out for a rusty ladder beyond the saltpans. The Xwejni saltpans are further east.
4. Wied Babu, Zurrieq
Perhaps one of the most lush places on the island, this valley is private property but access is not prohibited. Entrance is over a wall along the promenade, and you'll likely meet people on a picnic or climbing in the valley. A wonderful trek leads to the valley's mouth at open sea. The Blue Grotto and the Mnajdra and Hagar Qim Temples are nearby.
5. Kalanka Bay, Delimara
Are we about to divulge a well-kept secret? Just as beautiful as St Peter's Pool and affording a bit of shade, Kalanka is favoured by the locals and is not half as busy. It is also situated in Delimara, beyond Marsaxlokk.
Remember that these places are off the beaten track and may require substantial walking to reach. Wear a hat, take plenty of water and have a good time... it's all about the journey!