Walking in Malta & Gozo

2027 dates available On Offer

7 nights accommodation

Availability Nov 2026, Feb-Dec 2027

One itinerary available

Half Board

Grades 1, 2 & 3 details

1118kg CO2 details

Non-members From

£1,269

pp

Inc flights

Members From

£1,219

pp

Inc flights

For group booking of 10 or more please click here
This two-for-one walking holiday allows you to explore the best of the Maltese Islands on foot. In Malta, we’ll discover dramatic views atop Dingli Cliffs, be wowed by the glittering waters of the Blue Grotto, and visit the colourful fishing village of Marsaxlokk. There’ll also be two days of walking on neighbouring Gozo where rural rambles along the island’s stunning south coast tick off secluded coves, rocky headlands, and 17th century watchtowers that look out over the Mediterranean Sea.

Accommodation

A range of handpicked hotels...
Situated in the quiet seaside resort of Mellieħa on Malta’s northeast coast, the 4-star Solana Hotel offers both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a wellness centre, and three restaurants. HF Holidays guests will also benefit from unlimited self-service drinks during dinner including local beer, wine, soft drinks, and hot beverages. There are a cluster of local shops, bars, restaurants, and amenities on the doorstep and the stunningly beautiful Mellieħa Bay – the island’s largest stretch of sand – is around a 30-minute walk away.
Malta - Solana Hotel - .jpg

Walking grades and options

This holiday offers walks level 1 and 2 graded on Malta, with higher graded walks of level 2 and 3 on Gozo. Walks will be on stony island and coastal paths, as well as countryside roads. As these mediterranean islands have a prevalent karst landscape, footpaths generally can be very rocky, typically with scree / spalls underfoot.

On our excursion to Dingli Cliffs, our harder walk will cover a section for approx 180 metres, that passes within approx 2 metres, a safe distance of the cliff edge, but may not be suitable for guests with vertigo. Our easier walk on this day does a similar route, but will be further away, approx 5 metres, from the cliff edge on this excursion. Our local guides will be able to offer more advice on this walk if necessary.


What You’ll Love

  • Scenic walks on the sister islands of Malta and Gozo 
  • Visiting the pretty fishing village of Marsaxlokk 
  • Standing atop Dingli Cliffs, the highest point on Malta 
  • Discovering the fjord and headland scenery on Gozo’s south coast 
  • Exploring historic sites such as the Church of Pilgrimage at Ta Pinu 

What's Included

  • Five days of guided walks led by local HF Holidays Leaders
  • HF Holidays Tour Manager
  • 7-nights' accommodation in the seaside resort of Mellieħa Bay
  • 7 breakfasts & 7 dinners
  • All sightseeing and entrance fees (as per itinerary)
  • Air-conditioned transport
  • Return flights from the UK including hold baggage and airport transfers

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Gallery

Itinerary

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

Please note that the walks on this holiday are Grades 1&2 on Malta, Grades 2&3 on Gozo.

Itinerary

Welcome to Solana Hotel, Malta. Unpack and settle in. 

Walk from Buskett Gardens to Dingli Cliffs. Option to visit Ħaġar Qim megalithic temple or Mdina 

Option 1 - Caves, Cliffs & Catacombs

Distance: 5 miles (8km)

Total ascent: 300 feet (100m)

In summary: Today we walk through Maltese history. Starting in the old hunting grounds of Buskett Gardens we'll walk towards the coast and the Ghar-il-Kbir cave dwellings. We'll reach Rabat for lunch, with time to explore the 4th Century catacombs, St Pauls church and the Museum of Roman Antiquities. We'll finish our day in the 'Silent City' of Mdina.

Option 2 - Cliffs & Temples by the sea

Distance: 8 miles (13km)

Total ascent: 800 feet (240m)

In summary:  The first part of our day follows the same route as the other party as far as Ghar-il-Kbir, yet passing closer towards the cliff edge for 180 metres of this scenic coastal section. At the coast we'll descend to the undercliff, passing two wayside chapels. We'll reach Ghar Lapsi for lunch, and a swim, before heading into more rugged terrain to the large temple complex of Hagar Qim, finishing our walk at Wied ir Zurrieq. 

Today we take the ferry across to Gozo and explore the coastal area along the south coast. Here you’ll find precipitous cliffs and deep-cut fjords, rocky headlands and little urbanisation. 

Option 1 - The Southern Coast to Xlendi

Distance: 8 miles (13km)

Total ascent: 1,000 feet (300m) 

In summary: From our arrival at Mgarr on Gozo we cross scenic countryside towards the inlet of Mgarr-ix-Xini. We then walk along the coastal path through one of Gozo's most remote areas taking in spectacular clifftop views.

Highlight: Mgarr-ix-Xini is the perfect location for a picturesque coffee stop.

Option 2 - Along the coast to Xlendi

Distance: 5 miles (8km) 

Ascent: 600 feet (180m)

In summary: On arrival at Mgarr on Gozo we follow the coast path, we take in dramatic views of the cliffs. We continue along the coastline passing Xlendi Tower, the oldest freestanding watchtower on Gozo.

Highlight: Beautiful fossil embedded limestone formations and Xlendi Tower perched magnificently on a cliff top.

Walk from Marsaskala to Marsaxlokk Bay, two traditional Maltese fishing villages on the southern coast.

Option 1 - Marsaskala to Marsaxlokk

Distance: 6 miles (9½km)

Total ascent: 400 feet (120m)

In summary: Beginning in Marsaskala, we’ll cross the Delimara peninsula where we can observe the fascinating rock sculptures carved by wind and waves. Heading north, we’ll break for lunch before finishing our walk in the pretty fishing village of Marsaxlokk famous for its colourful Maltese boats bobbing in the harbour. 

 

Option 2 - Marsaskala to Pretty Bay

Distance: 9 miles (14½km)

Total ascent: 400 feet (120m)

In summary: Starting in Marsaskala our route follows the coastline to Marsaxlokk before continuing to the aptly named Pretty Bay – a golden arch of sand lapped by Malta’s beautifully clear blue waters. 

 

Each week there is a free day when no guided walks are offered. This is an ideal opportunity to relax around the hotel, walk independently or visit local places of interest. Some options for your free day may include:

Valletta: It is impossible to explore this World Heritage City in one day. Options available are the National Museum of Archaeology, where a fascinating collection of artefacts from Malta’s prehistoric sites are housed; the War Museum, which tells the story of the siege of Malta during the Second World War; Manoel Theatre (a beautiful old theatre), and an inhabited 16th century patrician town house.

Mdina & Rabat: Mdina is an important UNESCO Heritage Site. It is the oldest city on the island and derives its name from the Arabic word ‘medina’ meaning walled city. Mdina is lamp-lit by night and often referred to as the ‘silent city’. The cathedral and cathedral museum are fascinating places with their rich cultural and religious treasures. The impressive palaces are still home to some of Malta’s aristocratic families.

Rabat is home to the famous catacombs of St Paul and St Agatha and the impressive St Paul’s Church, which stands above a grotto where St Paul is said to have taken refuge after his shipwreck on Malta.

We take the ferry across to Gozo, where the Church of Pilgrimage at Ta Pinu starts the day. From here the north coast offers some spectacular cliff scenery. Heading eastwards there are some beautiful ‘wind sculptures’ to admire as well as quaint fishermen’s storerooms, formed in the softer rock of the higher cliffs, on our way to Marsalforn or Victoria.

Option 1 - Marsalforn via Hekka Point

Distance: 7½ miles (12.5km)

Ascent: 300 feet (90m)

Descent: 600 feet (190m) 

We too start with a visit to Ta Pinu, but then begin walking uphill to Ta Ghammer with its stations of the cross. We then head for Hekka Point via the village of Gharb. We'll then follow the other party to Marsalforn via the saltpans and cliffs.

 

Option 2 - Ta Pinu, Scultped cliffs & Marsalforn

Distance: 6 miles (10km)

Ascent: 150 feet (40m)

Descent: 450 feet (140m)

Our day begins at the sanctuary church of Ta Pinu with time to explore. We'll then head to the coast via the village of Ghasri. On reaching the coast we'll see the beautiful inlet of Ghar il Qamh, fascinating saltpans and weather-sculpted cliffs. We finish at Marsalforn with refreshments.

 

Combine coast and countryside walking through Majjistral Nature and History Park  to Golden Bay 

Option 1 - Mellieha to Golden Bay via Red Tower

Distance: 7.5 miles (12km) 

Ascent: 700 feet (220m) 

Descent: 1,000 feet (300m) 

We start out from the hotel in Mellieha, taking the same route to Ghadira Bay. From here we ascend through the Forests 2000 Park to the Red Tower with far reaching 360 views of Malta, Comino, and Gozo. After a short stretch on a quiet road along the crest of the plateau we descend along the coast to Popeye Village, from where we pick up the same route as the easier group to Golden Bay. 

Option 2 - Mellieha to Golden Bay

Distance: 6 miles (9½km)  

Ascent: 450 feet (140m) 

Descent: 750 feet (230m) 

From the hotel, we set out through town and country to the beach at Ghadira Bay.  Our walk then continues to the west side of the island along tracks through farming country to Popeye Village.  We’ll enjoy views to Comino and Gozo as we make our way to Majjistral Nature Park and then on to the popular sandy Golden Bay. Here there will be swimming opportunities as well as bars to enjoy a final drink with the group. 

We hope to see you again soon.

Daily Walk Options

Grade 1 Grade 2

Easier Walks

Walk at a relaxed pace, often spending time at places of interest en-route. Walking experience isn’t necessary as distances are quite short and gradients generally easy.

Grade 3

Medium Walks

Walks follow well-defined paths, though often in hilly or upland areas, or along rugged coastal footpaths. These may be rough or steep in sections and will require reasonable fitness.

Accommodation

Solana Hotel - Malta

Situated in the quiet seaside resort of Mellieħa on Malta’s northeast coast, the 4-star Solana Hotel offers both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a wellness centre, and three restaurants. HF Holidays guests will also benefit from unlimited self-service drinks during dinner including local beer, wine, soft drinks, and hot beverages. There are a cluster of local shops, bars, restaurants, and amenities on the doorstep and the stunningly beautiful Mellieħa Bay – the island’s largest stretch of sand – is around a 30-minute walk away.

Solana’s rooftop pool offers impeccable views of the sea and Malta’s sister islands, with a pleasant outside seating area. There is also an indoor pool (heated October - May).

Guided walking holidays at the Solana Hotel are on a half-board basis and includes breakfast and your evening meal. 

Breakfast

Breakfast is available at the Bellini  Restaurant and is a self-service buffet.  There is a selection of cereals, fruit juices, breads, pastries and cakes, as well as a hot selection, cold meat and cheese, and fruit.

Lunch (payable locally)

There are several shops and local supermarkets, a short walk away, in Mellieha Village, where you can buy the ingredients to make your picnic lunch.  There will be opportunities to eat in a local café during the day and our leaders will advise you of all the options and directions to the nearest shops.

Evening meal

A buffet style evening meal is served to our guests in the Bellini Restaurant, five times a week. There is a good selection of international dishes as well as fish and local meals, as well as antipasta dishes and salads as starters. Desserts will be followed by tea and coffee. On the other two evenings, we will be dining at the Tosca Restaurant which is a served  3-course meal which pre-selected choices.

The hotel does cater for most dietary requirements but we would advise you to speak to our reservation staff and also ensure that you speak to our hotel staff on arrival to avoid disappointment. 

Drinks

There is a well stocked bar offering a variety of pre-dinner drinks, wines, beers and local spirits including an interesting prickly pear liqueur.

The hotel has 183 en-suite rooms and are all of excellent standard. Each room is decorated in a modern-contemporary style and has

  • Individually-controlled central heating and air-conditioning
  • Satellite TV
  • Tea and coffee making
  • Mini-bar
  • Hairdryer
  • Telephone
  • Wi-Fi

Getting here

Address

Solana Hotel
Gorg Borg Olivier Street,
Mellieha MLH 1925,
Malta

Tel: 00356 2152 2211

More Information

Vaccinations & health information EU NEW 2026

Before booking, you should check with your doctor to see whether any health precautions are needed for your trip. Health advice and requirements can change, so we recommend doing this in good time before travel.

As a general rule, travellers should ensure they are up to date with routine UK vaccinations and boosters, including, for example, MMR and diphtheria, tetanus and polio. Some countries may require you to have specific vaccinations such as Malaria, Rabies and Yellow Fever. Please check with your GP if you are unsure.

Please note that the use or possession of some common prescription or over-the-counter medicines is restricted or banned in certain countries. If you will be carrying medication, you should check with the relevant embassy or consulate before travelling. As an extra precaution, we recommend keeping medication in its original packaging, carrying a copy of your prescription, and, where possible, asking your pharmacist to provide the medication name in the language of the country you are visiting.

For further country-specific health advice, visit www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or www.traveldoctor.co.uk. If you are travelling from outside the UK, please consult your own doctor and check local entry requirements.

 

Passport & Visa information - SHARED FOR ALL EU NEW 2026

This information is for those travelling with a full ‘British Citizen’ passport; for all other nationalities or passport holders, please check with your local consulate for advice.

Passport Requirements

This information applies to travellers holding a full British Citizen passport. Entry requirements vary by destination and can change at short notice. For most EU and worldwide destinations, passports must be valid for the entire duration of your stay. Some countries also require a minimum period of validity remaining on your passport (often up to 6 months beyond your return date), even if you are not staying that long.
We strongly recommend ensuring your passport has at least six months’ validity remaining at the time of travel to avoid any issues.

If you hold a different type of British passport or a passport issued by another country, you must check the requirements with the relevant embassy, consulate, or official government website.

Visa Requirements

Visa rules depend on your nationality, destination, length of stay, and purpose of travel, and they can change frequently. It is your responsibility to check whether you require a visa before travelling.
British passport holders should check the latest entry, passport validity and visa requirements for their destination on the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website:
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

 

 

Packing list - Overseas Guided Walking

It's best to be prepared for all weather conditions. To make it easier, here is a list of items you should consider packing.   

Essentials  

  • Walking boots 
  • Waterproof jacket 
  • Waterproof trousers 
  • Insulated jacket/top 
  • Walking clothing  
  • Walking socks (plus spares)  
  • Sunhat 
  • Gloves/mitts and warm hat
  • Water bottle (minimum 2 litre capacity)  
  • Headtorch 
  • High-factor sunscreen (minimum SPF 30)  
  • Sunglasses with a dark lens 
  • Rucksack (15-30 litres)  
  • Mobile phone 
  • Personal first aid kit (containing your medication, blister plasters, etc.) 
  • Passport 
  • Visa (if applicable) 
  • Copy of your travel insurance policy 
  • UK Global Health Insurance Card (formerly known as EHIC

Recommended

  • Collapsible walking poles 
  • Swimwear and travel towel
  • Snacks
  • Dry bags
  • Rubbish bags
  • Insect repellent

Optional extras

  • Camera 
  • Sit mat
  • Flask for hot drinks 
  • Durable lunch box
  • Gaiters 
  • GPS device (excluding Bhutan, Georgia and India)

With flights EU & WW

Book your holiday ‘with flights’ and you can choose to depart from a range of UK airports* to your destination. For latest flight times and prices please call us on 0203-974-8865 or email reservations@hfholidays.co.uk  

If you choose to book your flights with us, we automatically include return transfers between the destination airport and hotel.  

Without flights EU

Alternatively, tailor your journey to suit you by booking your holiday ‘without flights’ and you’ll have the freedom to book your own flights from your local airport.   

*Subject to availability 

Local currency (Europe)

The local currency is the Euro (€)

Electricity information for Malta

220 Volt AC with 3-pin plugs as per UK.

ATM availability for Malta

There are several ATM machines in Mellieha where you can obtain money.

Carbon Footprint - 1118kg CO2

We see it as our responsibility to minimise our emissions, not just for this year but every year to come. Our work with sustainability experts, ecollective, has enabled us to measure our carbon footprint and create a strategy to reduce the carbon intensity of our product by 5% each year. Our ambition is to be net zero by 2040 – earlier if we can.

Learn more

Reviews

Code: MTA07-LHL09

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Dates & availability

Walking in Malta & Gozo

Members save an additional £50 on this booking and get a range of other exclusive benefits. You can join during booking process. Read more about membership

2026

5 Nov - 12 Nov 2026

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£1,429

£1,249

pp

Members

£1,379

£1,199

pp
Single rooms

Save £100 Per Person

19 Nov - 26 Nov 2026

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£1,369 £1,269

£1,199 £1,099

pp

Members

£1,319 £1,219

£1,149 £1,049

pp
Single rooms

2027

11 Feb - 18 Feb 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£1,399

£1,199

pp

Members

£1,349

£1,149

pp
Single rooms

£1,609

pp

£1,559

pp

£1,409

pp

£1,359

pp

11 Mar - 18 Mar 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£1,449

£1,249

pp

Members

£1,399

£1,199

pp
Single rooms

£1,701

pp

£1,651

pp

£1,501

pp

£1,451

pp

1 Apr - 8 Apr 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£1,649

£1,449

pp

Members

£1,599

£1,399

pp
Single rooms

£1,887

pp

£1,837

pp

£1,687

pp

£1,637

pp

14 Oct - 21 Oct 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£1,699

£1,499

pp

Members

£1,649

£1,449

pp
Single rooms

£1,930

pp

£1,880

pp

£1,730

pp

£1,680

pp

11 Nov - 18 Nov 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£1,499

£1,299

pp

Members

£1,449

£1,249

pp
Single rooms

£1,723

pp

£1,673

pp

£1,523

pp

£1,473

pp

2 Dec - 9 Dec 2027

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£1,549

£1,349

pp

Members

£1,499

£1,299

pp
Single rooms

£1,724

pp

£1,674

pp

£1,524

pp

£1,474

pp
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Trusted British co-operative

We are proud to be Britain’s only walking holiday co-operative. Led by almost 40,000 members, offering hundreds of holidays across the UK and overseas, with all surplus being reinvested back into our Society.

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Flexible choice of guided walks

Experienced volunteer HF Leaders guide every walk at our UK country houses, offering up to three daily options. Making it easy to find a holiday to suit your ability, and with the flexibility to switch grades each walking day.

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Book early with confidence

Become an HF Member to benefit from our Price Pledge. Secure your first choice of holiday early, and if the cost drops after you book, we will automatically refund the difference (exc. travel agent & group bookings).

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Book with confidence

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

If we cancel your holiday, we honour all refund requests 

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Travel with confidence

We know that peace of mind is priceless, so we’ll always go above and beyond to meet – and exceed – expectations

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

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HF Holidays

A British heritage brand with 111 years of experience

Offering a choice of over 260 itineraries in nearly 40 countries

Run as a co-operative with 40,000-plus members

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