It may come as a surprise, but it is possible to drive freely along several kilometres on a traffic-free road through the countryside in Malta! The route stretches from Zurrieq to Mellieha along country lanes on the western coast and it demonstrates just how picturesque Malta is.
Starting at Wied iz-Zurrieq and heading north, the island of Filfla is the first beautiful sight to behold.
The road along the west coast features possible stops at the Blue Grotto, Mnajdra and Hagar Qim Temples, and Ghar Lapsi, if you like.
Rubble walls create a typical Mediterranean picture and give the first indication of Maltese countryside.
Along most of this road, however, the left side offers views of the sea framed by local scrub.
Once the road veers left towards Siggiewi, the road offers wonderful country views.
Peek around a corner and find some hidden treasure, such as the unique Providenza Chapel, another interesting photo stop.
The road itself is pretty and easy to follow. At the T-section, where a right turn would take you to Siggiewi, Mqabba or Zebbug, the route continues towards Rabat on the left.
Along this way, there are a few unique landmarks, such as this pillar with a woman emerging from inside a flower.
Sometimes, for several kilometres, there is not a person, not a building, and not a car in sight along the country roads.
The road continues north through Girgenti (left after this), a place renowned for the appearance of the Madonna. At the roundabout, the second exit continues towards Rabat.
The road is scenic all the way, with many Maltese features including indigenous vegetation, more rubble walls, tended fields and farmland, and quaint farmhouses.
Simple things are sometimes the most beautiful, such as these trees majestically lining the road.
The road continues straight ahead all the way to Saqqajja.
If you like, however, you can make a little diversion. When you see a fairy-tale castle perched upon a hill on the left side, head up towards it. The village of Dingli lies behind it with easy access to Mdina through Rabat.
The diversion offers a little treat by itself. For starters, the road up is as picturesque as can be.
It brings you right up along the fairy-tale castle and on a high ridge with vast views of the island in the direction whence you came.
This beautiful fairy-tale castle is a private residence.
Beside it, to add an extra touch of drama, is the red cupola of a small church.
The 180 degrees view on the other side is mostly green, wide open space across the west part of the country, all the way to the sea.
Just beyond, enroute to Dingli, you can see Mdina and the sea yonder on the east side.
Skipping the detour, at Saqqajja, the route takes the second exit at the roundabout to drive below the bastions of Mdina. The newly done up road is a comfy drive. At the second roundabout (the first goes to Mtarfa), the route takes the first exit towards Mgarr.
Bypassing Mgarr via Zebbieh, the road winds down towards Ghajn Tuffieha Bay. It offers great views across the valley towards some of Malta's most popular beaches, a perfect place to stop for a dip on warm day.
From here, the road to Mellieha via the hamlet of Manikata runs along Majjistral National Park on its left.
At the top of the hill, the road curves right towards the main road, but it is nicer to veer left to continue along the coast. The view from the top of this hill is worth stopping for. Behind you, you can see rolling hills, fields and the inlets of Golden Bay, Ghajn Tuffieha and Gnejna Bay.
Right where you are, there's a walkway to Ghajn Znuber Observation Tower and a view that stretches all the way to Gozo.
The initial S-shape brings you to a very straight but hilly road reminiscent of a roller coaster with one of the best views in Malta.
Leading to Popeye Village, this is perhaps one of the most scenic roads in Malta. All the way along this road, with its changing perspectives, the view is stunning.
At the bottom, a stop to take in the pretty sight of Popeye Village is due.
Finally, the road emerges at Mellieha Bay. Another great opportunity for a swim or perhaps a snack and a cold beer!
From here, you can even follow the road all the way to the Red Tower and Cirkewwa or to the chapel at L-Ahrax. The road is beautiful and the views are stunning all the way!
All photos credit: Melanie Drury