If you think Malta is all buildings and busy beaches, head to the north-west coast. The Majjistral Nature and History Park is where the island suddenly opens up: high cliffs, wild garigue, quiet bays and paths with nothing but sea and sky ahead of you. It is Malta’s first national park, and one of the best places on the island for a proper coastal walk.
The name comes from the majjistral, the north-westerly wind that sweeps across this coast.
Where is Majjistral Park?
The park runs along roughly 6 kilometres of coastline in the north-west of Malta, from Anchor Bay (Il-Prajjet), home of Popeye Village, down to Golden Bay (Ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa), and inland towards the high ground of Ix-Xagħra l-Ħamra.
Who looks after it?
Majjistral is managed by the Heritage Parks Federation, set up by three Maltese non-profit organisations: Din l-Art Ħelwa, The Gaia Foundation and Nature Trust (Malta). The federation is a member of the European Rangers Federation and the Europarc Federation, and park rangers help protect the area.
What you’ll find in the park
Dramatic coastline
The coast here is wild and rugged, with tall cliffs, rocky inlets and small bays. On clear days, the views stretch for miles out to sea, and sunsets over the cliffs are spectacular.
Protected habitats
Much of the park is part of the Natura 2000 network, the EU’s network of protected nature sites. It includes rare coastal and plant habitats, and in spring the garigue bursts into colour with wild flowers.
Rural heritage
This is a landscape shaped by people over thousands of years. As you walk, look out for:
- Cart ruts, the mysterious ancient grooves cut into the rock
- Dry stone walls and terraced fields
- Old farmhouses and corbelled stone huts known as giren
- Traditional beehives built into the walls
- Tombs from the Classical period and natural caves
Walking in Majjistral
There are no big signposted loops like in a large national park abroad, but there are well-used paths along the cliffs and across the plateau. A popular route follows the coast between Golden Bay and the area near Anchor Bay, with plenty of stops for photos. The park and its partner organisations have published heritage and flora trails, and they sometimes run guided walks, which are a great way to learn about the plants and history.
Tips for your visit
- Go in autumn, winter or spring. In summer there is almost no shade and it gets very hot.
- Wear proper shoes. The ground is rocky and uneven, and not suitable for prams.
- Stay away from cliff edges, especially on windy days and with children.
- Bring plenty of water, a hat and sun cream. There are no shops inside the park.
- Stay on existing paths to protect the plants and wildlife.
- Take your rubbish home and don’t light fires.
- Time it for sunset, but make sure you can get back before dark.
Opening hours and entry
Majjistral is an open-access nature park with no entry fee. Guided walks and special activities may have their own booking arrangements. Check the official Majjistral or Heritage Parks Federation channels for any events or restrictions.
How to get there
The easiest access points are Golden Bay and the area around Għajn Tuffieħa, both reachable by bus and by car, with parking near the beaches (busy in summer). You can also reach the northern end of the park from the Anchor Bay road near Popeye Village.
Make a day of it
- Popeye Village at Anchor Bay, at the northern edge of the park.
- Golden Bay for a swim after the walk. Note that since 2026 smoking is only allowed in designated areas on the beach.
- The Victoria Lines Trail if you want another scenic walk on a different day.
Frequently asked questions
Is Majjistral Park free? Yes, there is no entry fee to walk in the park.
Where does Majjistral Park start and end? It covers about 6km of coast from Anchor Bay to Golden Bay in north-west Malta.
Is it good for children? Older children who like walking will love it. It isn’t suitable for prams, and young children need close supervision near the cliffs.
When is the best time to visit? From October to May, when it is cooler and the countryside is green.
Who manages the park? The Heritage Parks Federation, formed by Din l-Art Ħelwa, The Gaia Foundation and Nature Trust (Malta).
Beautiful Malta is an independent guide. Access, paths and events can change, so check official sources before visiting.