Marfa Ridge Trail
Hike along Malta's dramatic northern coast, featuring the iconic Red Tower, stunning sea views, and hidden caves.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Marfa Ridge Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike along Malta's dramatic northern coast, featuring the iconic Red Tower, stunning sea views, and hidden caves.
"One of the best walks in Malta with spectacular landscapes and interesting stone types."
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The terrain can be uneven. Wear good walking shoes for a comfortable and safe hike along the ridge.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Malta gets hot. Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, to avoid dehydration on the trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Red Tower (Saint Agatha's Tower)
Marfa Ridge
Iconic 17th-century watchtower offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands and coastline.
Devil's Farmhouse
Near Marfa Ridge Trail
An intriguing abandoned building, adding a touch of mystery and urban exploration to the natural landscape.
Għar ta' Żejt Cave
Coastal caves along the ridge
Discover hidden natural caves with breathtaking sea views, offering a unique perspective of Malta's coastline.
Paradise Bay
South end of Marfa Ridge
A beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a relaxing dip after your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Navigating the Ridge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The terrain can be uneven. Wear good walking shoes for a comfortable and safe hike along the ridge.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Malta gets hot. Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, to avoid dehydration on the trail.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are incredible. Don't forget your camera or phone to snap photos of the coastline and islands.
⚠️ Cliff Edge Caution
Be mindful of the cliff edges. Stick to marked paths and supervise children closely for safety.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
The terrain can be uneven. Wear good walking shoes for a comfortable and safe hike along the ridge.
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Malta gets hot. Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, to avoid dehydration on the trail.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are incredible. Don't forget your camera or phone to snap photos of the coastline and islands.
⚠️ Cliff Edge Caution
Be mindful of the cliff edges. Stick to marked paths and supervise children closely for safety.
🗺️ Explore Hidden Gems
Look out for natural caves and the intriguing Devil's Farmhouse for unique exploration opportunities. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking coastal views and the iconic Red Tower, calling it one of Malta's best walks. The opportunity to explore natural caves and the nearby Paradise Bay adds to the appeal. Some caution is advised regarding cliff edges and the need for sturdy footwear.
"Nice walk around the northern tip of Malta"
David Cartwright
"This is one of the best walk in the whole of Malta. One way is to start from the Paradise Bay Resort (near the ferry station) and then walk south along the cliff (with great care !!). Then you will watch the best landscapes, as well as very interesting stone types. Also have a look at the Paradise Bay by itself, a great place to spend an afternoon if there are not too many people. Once you have followed the cliff long enough till the extreme west, you can reach a road bringing you to the red castle."
S. Gadenne
"Great views of the islands"
Ben lui forest cabin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Marfa Ridge Trail by car, taxi, or public bus. The nearest bus stop is Marfa. From there, you can start your hike. Some visitors recommend starting near Paradise Bay Resort.
Yes, there is parking available near Paradise Bay and around the Red Tower area, though it can get busy during peak season.
Yes, Marfa Ridge is located in the northern part of Mellieħa. You can access it via local roads and public transport from the main town. +1
Absolutely! Buses frequently run to the Marfa area, making it accessible for those relying on public transport.
Many suggest starting from Paradise Bay Resort and walking south along the cliff for the best landscapes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Marfa Ridge Trail is a public outdoor area and does not require any tickets for entry or hiking.
While the trail itself is free, there might be a small fee to enter the Red Tower itself, depending on current access policies. It's best to check on-site.
As an outdoor trail, Marfa Ridge is accessible at all hours. However, visiting during daylight is recommended for safety and visibility.
The Devil's Farmhouse is an abandoned building, and access may be restricted or unsafe. Explore with caution and respect private property.
While not widely advertised, local tour operators may offer guided hikes. It's worth checking with local tourism information centers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The trail is mostly coastal and cliff-edged, with some rocky and uneven sections. Sturdy walking shoes are essential.
Facilities are limited directly on the ridge. You'll find more amenities near Paradise Bay or in Mellieħa town.
The Red Tower offers spectacular panoramic views. The cliff edges themselves provide stunning vistas of the sea and surrounding islands.
Yes, Paradise Bay is a beautiful beach perfect for swimming and relaxing after your hike.
Children can enjoy the trail, but adult supervision is crucial due to the cliff edges. Paradise Bay is also great for families.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers great views.
Expect stunning coastal landscapes, panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, Comino, and Gozo, the Red Tower, and natural caves. +1
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check current Maltese aviation rules and local restrictions before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can capture details of distant islands. A polarizing filter can enhance sea and sky colors.
The area around the Red Tower, the cliff edges overlooking Paradise Bay, and the entrances to natural caves offer unique photographic opportunities. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When hiking, it's essential to keep a close eye on children due to the proximity of cliff edges. Stick to the main paths and consider shorter sections of the trail if needed. The natural caves can be an exciting discovery, but ensure they are safe to explore. Bringing plenty of snacks and water is always a good idea for younger hikers.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
While the trail is generally safe, it's always wise for solo hikers to inform someone of their plans and expected return time. The presence of other visitors, especially during peak hours, can offer a sense of security. Exploring the natural caves or the abandoned Devil's Farmhouse can add an element of adventure to a solo journey.
📸 Photographers
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes and consider a telephoto lens for details of Comino and Gozo. The natural caves offer unique framing opportunities. Don't miss the chance to photograph the Red Tower from various angles, especially with the sea as a backdrop.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Coastal Wonders
One of the most prominent landmarks is the Red Tower (Saint Agatha's Tower), a 17th-century watchtower that stands guard over the coastline. Its distinctive red color, a deliberate choice by the Knights of St. John for visibility, makes it an iconic sight. The tower itself offers a glimpse into Malta's defensive history and provides elevated vantage points for photography.
Beyond the tower, the ridge is dotted with intriguing natural formations. Visitors often seek out natural caves, such as Għar ta' Żejt, which offer unique perspectives of the sea and coastline from within. The presence of the Devil's Farmhouse, an abandoned building, adds an element of mystery and urban exploration for those interested in such sites.
Hiking and Safety on the Ridge
It's crucial to stay hydrated, particularly during Malta's warm months. Carrying ample water is essential, as there are limited facilities directly on the ridge. Sun protection, including hats and sunscreen, is also advised. While the trail is generally accessible, it's best to visit during daylight hours for optimal visibility and safety.
Many visitors suggest starting their walk from the vicinity of Paradise Bay Resort, heading south along the cliff. This route is noted for its stunning landscapes and interesting geological formations. The trail eventually leads towards the Red Tower, making for a well-rounded exploration of the area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit