Despite its small size, Malta presents a vast amount of opportunities for rural exploration – from the hilly north of the island to the gorgeous valleys in the south. Only one kilometre away from the southernmost point of Malta, just west of the iconic Ghar Hasan Cave, lies Wied Znuber Valley – a gorge that leads to the sea through a narrow cleft in the cliffs of Hal Far.

Once a strategic location for the island’s defence against invaders, several attempts were made to protect the island from this very point. In 1654, a wall was built to block pirate invasions, which was later replaced by a British stop wall in the 1890s. The wall, with musketry loopholes and a unique culvert system, was crucial in protecting the Grand Harbour, and can still be seen to this day.

A hike through the area can be as adventurous as you choose! Beyond the walled stairs constructed by the British, a metal ladder offers daring explorers the chance to descend further toward the sea. Along the way, adventurers might also stumble upon (hopefully not literally!) a fascinating Dolmen - a megalithic burial chamber featuring a capstone that covers a shallow recess in the ground, adding a touch of ancient history to the journey.

All in all, definitely a worthy addition to your hiking routes!

Have you ever visited Wied Znuber?