Here’s our pick of some of the best dog-friendly spots on the island for you and your furry friend to enjoy!
As the ‘mum’ of three rescue dogs – Bunny, Summer and Pip – I often find myself on the hunt for places where we will all feel welcome. Traditionally, Malta wasn’t known for its dog-friendly venues but, in recent years, all sorts of wonderful places have opened their doors to our furry friends, including restaurants, cafés and even hotels. This means that, whether you’re flying in for a weekend break or coming by ferry for a longer stay, your faithful friend will be welcome to join you.
Corinthia Palace
As one of the leading dog-friendly spots on the island, Corinthia Palace doesn’t disappoint, and pooches have flown in from all over the world to stay here as part of the Palace Pups programme. Aside from being welcomed at check-in, your four-legged friend will enjoy in-room facilities like a comfy bed, treats and toys, as well as access to the yummy in-room doggy dining menu. Dogs are also welcome in the hotel’s Orange Grove Bistro, the Caprice Lounge Terrace, and The Summer Kitchen.
One80 Café
This bright café in Naxxar is set within a pretty interiors shop, giving it a very chic ambience. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s ideal all year round, and the menu will have something for both you and your dog. For humans I recommend the club sandwich served with hand-cut crisps, while your furry companion will enjoy the dog biscuits and puppaccino on offer (it’s got caramel and vanilla froth!).
New York Best
You will love the burgers, while your dog, well… he or she will probably enjoy them too! Dogs of all shapes and sizes are welcome at New York Best, and a cool bowl of water is also available should they get thirsty in-between bites. The team here is also working on a menu especially for dogs, so stay tuned for details!
Costa Coffee
Need a caffeine fix while you’ve got your pooch in tow? Sorted! Costa Coffee – which has outlets in various spots around the island – welcomes dogs indoors and out, and you’re welcome to queue by the counter together as you get your coffee to go, too.
Ta’ Qali Dog Park
Located in the centre of the island, this park is somewhere your dogs can run around off the lead and make friends. It’s set away from the road with a couple of gates to keep your dog safe. There’s also fun and games to be had – with an obstacle course and weave poles – and place for you to sit while you keep an eye out (which is important). Just outside the dog park is a wider stretch of space to enjoy, but it’s recommend to keep you dog on its lead here.
Mgarr ix-Xini
Although Malta has lots of beautiful beaches, very few of them are open to dogs all year round. Mgarr ix-Xini, in Gozo, is one of the ones that is, and it’s absolutely gorgeous (in fact it was the setting for the recent Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt film, By The Sea). While you do need to keep your dog on the lead by law, it’s a lovely spot for them to stretch their legs and explore, right by the water’s edge.
Got more ideas for dog-friendly spots in Malta and Gozo? Let us know in the comments below!