Victoria Lines Trail
Hike Malta's historic Victoria Lines, a 12km fortification offering stunning coastal views and a journey through history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Victoria Lines Trail
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike Malta's historic Victoria Lines, a 12km fortification offering stunning coastal views and a journey through history.
"Beautiful place to see a part of the physical barrier that was built for defense to separate Malta in two parts."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear good shoes for the varied terrain and prickly plants.
💧 Hydration & Snacks
Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially for the 20km trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Fault Barrier
North Malta
Hike along a natural geographical barrier, a historic 19th-century British fortification.
Panoramic Coastal Views
Along the trail
Enjoy breathtaking views of both Malta's north and south coasts from this elevated position.
Top of the World
Gharghur
A popular spot on the trail offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Malta's Historic Great Wall
Trail Conditions & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear good shoes for the varied terrain and prickly plants.
💧 Hydration & Snacks
Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially for the 20km trail.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for exposed sections.
🧭 Trail Navigation
Be prepared for some sections where the trail can be hard to find.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear good shoes for the varied terrain and prickly plants.
💧 Hydration & Snacks
Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially for the 20km trail.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for exposed sections.
🧭 Trail Navigation
Be prepared for some sections where the trail can be hard to find.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Adventure
A scenic and dog-friendly trail with rugged landscapes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Victoria Lines Trail for its spectacular views and historical significance, calling it one of Malta's best hiking spots. The challenging terrain and unique landscape are highlights, though some note that the trail can be difficult to navigate and parts of the wall are in ruins.
"Beautiful place to see a part of the physical barrier (stone wall) that was built for defense to separate Malta in two parts.
You can hike the whole Victoria Lines trail that goes from Fort Madliena to Kuncizzjoni Chapel (around 20 km). During the hike you will see parts of the stone wall but a lot of the wall is already destroyed. So keep in mind that you will not walk along the wall all the time because the biggest parts are gone. Sometimes it's also hard to find the trail.
Trail: Evangelista bus stop - Fort Madliena - San Giovanni Battery - Top of the world (Gharghur) - Triq John Adye road - Cart Ruts Birguma - Victoria Lines (direction WW2 Pillbox) - Millbrae Grove - Mosta Scout Campsite - Falka Gap (cross over see trail on the left) - Dwejra Lines - Victoria Lines - Kuncizzjoni Chapel.
Tip: wear good shoes, protective clothes (for the prickly plants), bring sun protection, water and snacks."
Tibi lost in nature
"Beautiful trail and best in Malta if you like trail Running or hiking. You can get nice views while trail Running or hiking. There is a place called Top of The World which has some nice panoramic views."
Outdoor Lover
"Spectacular views of the Dis valley and the Victoria Lines. The Victoria Lines are a defensive line of walls built in the second world war in a strategic position high on a ridge."
noel borg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access points vary along the 12km route. Many start near Evangelista bus stop or Fort Madliena. Public transport can get you to various points along the trail.
While you can drive to certain points near the trail, parking can be limited. It's often best to use public transport to reach a starting point.
Yes, the full trail is approximately 20 km from Fort Madliena to Kuncizzjoni Chapel. Plan for a full day of hiking.
Many hikers recommend starting at Fort Madliena or the Evangelista bus stop for a good introduction to the trail.
Malta has a good bus network. Research routes that stop near points like Fort Madliena or Gharghur for access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Victoria Lines Trail is a public outdoor space and does not require an entrance fee.
As an outdoor trail, it's accessible at any time. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There isn't a dedicated visitor center directly on the trail, but information about Malta's fortifications can be found at local tourism offices.
While not always advertised, local tour operators may offer guided hikes, especially for historical or running tours.
Yes, you can access various points along the trail via different roads and public transport stops, allowing for shorter walks.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The terrain is varied, including rocky paths, uneven ground, and some sections with prickly vegetation. Good hiking shoes are essential.
The full 20km trail can take around 5.5 to 6 hours to complete, depending on your pace and stops.
Facilities are very limited. It's crucial to carry all your own water and snacks.
Absolutely! Many runners enjoy the challenging terrain and scenic views.
Expect spectacular views of the surrounding valleys, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Maltese countryside.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'Top of the World' viewpoint offers stunning panoramic shots. Coastal viewpoints and sections of the intact wall are also very photogenic.
While drone footage can capture the scale of the lines and views, be mindful of any local regulations regarding drone usage.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful light for landscape photography.
Yes, many sections of the 19th-century British fortifications are still visible and make for interesting historical shots.
Look for dramatic valley vistas and the unique texture of the stone walls against the natural landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ensure children wear appropriate footwear and protective clothing. Bring plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are scarce. The historical aspect of the 'Great Wall of Malta' can spark imagination, making it an educational outing.
🏃♀️ Trail Runners
Many runners enjoy the 12km or 20km routes for their historical significance and stunning panoramic views. Be prepared for the exposed nature of the trail; sun protection and ample hydration are crucial. While parts of the original fortifications are visible, the trail itself is largely natural, offering a true off-road running experience.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog on a leash where necessary and always carry water for them, especially during warmer months. The rugged landscape and historical elements make it an interesting outing for both you and your pet.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Victoria Lines
+1This impressive structure consists of a series of forts, batteries, and a continuous wall. While the original purpose was defense, today the Victoria Lines serve as a unique historical monument and a popular destination for hikers and history enthusiasts. Many sections of the wall are still visible, offering a tangible connection to Malta's past.
It's important to note that while the name suggests a continuous wall, much of it has been destroyed or is in ruins. The trail often follows the path of the historical defense line, but you won't be walking directly alongside an intact wall for the entire 12km.
Hiking the Victoria Lines Trail
Hikers can expect stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the Mediterranean Sea. A highlight for many is the 'Top of the World' viewpoint in Gharghur, which provides expansive vistas. The trail is also a popular spot for trail running, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience.
Given the exposed nature of the trail, it's crucial to be well-prepared. Bring ample water, snacks, and wear sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen. While some parts of the wall are intact, the trail often follows the historical defensive line rather than walking directly along the wall itself, so be prepared for a more natural hiking experience.
Accessibility and Trail Conditions
Sturdy footwear is a must due to the rocky and sometimes uneven terrain. Protective clothing is also recommended to guard against prickly plants that line some sections of the path. Navigation can be a challenge in certain areas, as the trail isn't always clearly marked, and parts of the historical wall are in disrepair. It's advisable to have a map or use a GPS app. The trail is best enjoyed during the cooler months of spring and autumn, or during the early morning in summer, to avoid the intense Mediterranean heat.
While not fully accessible for wheelchairs or strollers, certain sections might be manageable with assistance. The trail is also dog-friendly, making it a great option for pet owners looking for an outdoor adventure.
Social
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