Trip code: W07GM 4.1 (7 reviews)
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
twin centre
Level: 2
Moderate
Flights
available
17.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
The Maltese islands have played host to the Phoenicians, the Romans, the Knights of St John, Napoleanic and the British Empires whose influences can be seen all over the island. The awe inspiring architecture is clearly evident, especially in the UNESCO world heritage site of Valletta, Malta's capital city. With so many rich and colourful traditions and excellent gastronomy, there is plenty on these islands to tantalise your tastebuds.
This holiday gives the perspective on two different Maltese islands, Malta being the largest of the two, only 27km long and 14.5km wide so you'll see plenty of breath taking sea views with dramatic sandstone cliffs, time worn salt pans and perfect fishing villages where the traditional and colourful Luzzo boats can be seen bobbing around in the bays.
In Malta you are based just outside Valletta in St Julian's, your 7 day bus pass allows you to make the most of your time on the islands enabling you to access the start of the walks and return at the end. Walk around Malta's 'fish tail' where the watch towers along the coast are evident of its history and where there are stunning views across to Gozo and Comino. Enjoy the sites of the capital Valletta, the smallest capital in Europe and recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's full of narrow streets, impressive architecture, fountains and ancient city walls, however if you need a rest, there are plenty of cafes, restaurant and bars in which to stop and watch the world go by.
On day 5 of your holiday you are transferred to Gozo to discover your second island and the second largest of the three Maltese islands. At only 14km by 7km at its widest point, nowhere in Gozo is too far away, making it the ideal choice for a walking holiday. The slow pace of life along with the air of tranquillity also makes Gozo the perfect place to relax. Rich in history and culture you there is plenty to see on your walks around the island taking in exceptional coastal views as you go. The walks guide you around the island's impressive coastline and through the cobbled streets of the traditional towns and villages.Its rugged landscape ensures spectacular views including Fungus Rock, a natural stone outcrop in the centre of Dwejra Bay, and the Inland Sea. Between autumn and late spring, the countryside bursts into life, revealing an incredible wealth of flora and fauna, with colourful wildflowers and scented herbs.
The terrain is moderate with some small hills and the walking is often along ancient roads and old farm tracks. There are some steep descents to the coast and the occasional rough, stony section.
Arrive at your hotel for the evening. Below is a suggested itinerary for your stay on each island, however you are free to pick and choose when and where you walk on each island on each day.
You stay at Hotel Holms or Hotel Verdi.
Hotel Holm is a modern and contemporary boutique hotel and spa with design driven décor. Tucked away in a quiet narrow alley just 350m from Balluta Bay it offers an excellent location to explore Malta and nearby Valletta. You stay in the Superior rooms on a B&B basis with plenty of options for dinner nearby. Valletta is also just a short taxi ride away should you wish to spend an evening in the capital. The hotel has Wi-Fi throughout, a 24 hour bar service, a rooftop infinity pool and and the heated indoor pool and spa facilities (treatments payable locally) are excellent.
Situated right on the waterfront, the Hotel Verdi has a great location, right on the popular promenade and with shops, trendy cafés, restaurants and bars, swimming spots, and even a beach club on its doorstep. You are just a short walk or taxi from the main areas of Valetta, so whether you are interested in the shopping in Sliema, or the cultural and historical delights of the old town, you won't be disappointed. This is a great place to stay for your walking holiday in Malta.
The hotel has many features including a well-equipped gym, Scandi-style sauna, and a bijou roof-top pool. There is 24/7 reception, room service, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a delightful on-site restaurant and lobby bar.
Room upgrades: Please contact us for details.
Discover Malta's 'fish tail' with breath taking cliffs beautiful beaches and stunning views to Comino and Gozo.
You stay at Hotel Holm or Hotel Verdi.
Hotel Holm is a modern and contemporary boutique hotel and spa with design driven décor. Tucked away in a quiet narrow alley just 350m from Balluta Bay it offers an excellent location to explore Malta and nearby Valletta. You stay in the Superior rooms on a B&B basis with plenty of options for dinner nearby. Valletta is also just a short taxi ride away should you wish to spend an evening in the capital. The hotel has Wi-Fi throughout, a 24 hour bar service, a rooftop infinity pool and and the heated indoor pool and spa facilities (treatments payable locally) are excellent.
Situated right on the waterfront, the Hotel Verdi has a great location, right on the popular promenade and with shops, trendy cafés, restaurants and bars, swimming spots, and even a beach club on its doorstep. You are just a short walk or taxi from the main areas of Valetta, so whether you are interested in the shopping in Sliema, or the cultural and historical delights of the old town, you won't be disappointed. This is a great place to stay for your walking holiday in Malta.
The hotel has many features including a well-equipped gym, Scandi-style sauna, and a bijou roof-top pool. There is 24/7 reception, room service, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a delightful on-site restaurant and lobby bar.
Room upgrades: Please contact us for details.
An impressive coastal walk of Malta's capital city with UNESCO World Heritage site status, with stunning views of its surrounding natural harbours.
You stay at Hotel Holm or Hotel Verdi.
Hotel Holm is a modern and contemporary boutique hotel and spa with design driven décor. Tucked away in a quiet narrow alley just 350m from Balluta Bay it offers an excellent location to explore Malta and nearby Valletta. You stay in the Superior rooms on a B&B basis with plenty of options for dinner nearby. Valletta is also just a short taxi ride away should you wish to spend an evening in the capital. The hotel has Wi-Fi throughout, a 24 hour bar service, a rooftop infinity pool and and the heated indoor pool and spa facilities (treatments payable locally) are excellent.
Situated right on the waterfront, the Hotel Verdi has a great location, right on the popular promenade and with shops, trendy cafés, restaurants and bars, swimming spots, and even a beach club on its doorstep. You are just a short walk or taxi from the main areas of Valetta, so whether you are interested in the shopping in Sliema, or the cultural and historical delights of the old town, you won't be disappointed. This is a great place to stay for your walking holiday in Malta.
The hotel has many features including a well-equipped gym, Scandi-style sauna, and a bijou roof-top pool. There is 24/7 reception, room service, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a delightful on-site restaurant and lobby bar.
Room upgrades: Please contact us for details.
Dramatic sandstone cliffs and magnificent sea views between the two fishing towns of Marsascala and Marsaxlokk Bay, famous for its Sunday Fish Market!
You stay at Hotel Holm or Hotel Verdi.
Hotel Holm is a modern and contemporary boutique hotel and spa with design driven décor. Tucked away in a quiet narrow alley just 350m from Balluta Bay it offers an excellent location to explore Malta and nearby Valletta. You stay in the Superior rooms on a B&B basis with plenty of options for dinner nearby. Valletta is also just a short taxi ride away should you wish to spend an evening in the capital. The hotel has Wi-Fi throughout, a 24 hour bar service, a rooftop infinity pool and and the heated indoor pool and spa facilities (treatments payable locally) are excellent.
Situated right on the waterfront, the Hotel Verdi has a great location, right on the popular promenade and with shops, trendy cafés, restaurants and bars, swimming spots, and even a beach club on its doorstep. You are just a short walk or taxi from the main areas of Valetta, so whether you are interested in the shopping in Sliema, or the cultural and historical delights of the old town, you won't be disappointed. This is a great place to stay for your walking holiday in Malta.
The hotel has many features including a well-equipped gym, Scandi-style sauna, and a bijou roof-top pool. There is 24/7 reception, room service, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a delightful on-site restaurant and lobby bar.
Room upgrades: Please contact us for details.
Today a morning taxi transfer is provided to the ferry port where you catch the ferry (ticket included) for Gozo where a taxi transfer will be waiting to take you to your hotel in the capital Victoria where you will stay for the next three nights. On arrival you can either relax, explore Victoria or do the optional walk to the Ta Pinu Santuary finshing in Gharb. This north western corner of the island is only accessible on foot, along easy to navigate farm tracks. First stop is the remarkable neo-Romanesque basilica Ta' Pinu, a huge national shrine built on the site of a miracle in 1923. Your route then leads through unique ravine-like wieds (streams) to Gharb with a stunning Baroque church dating from 1699 and traditional stone houses. The final stretch takes you along the striking cliffs of the north coast where you are rewarded with fantastic views across Gozo's famous salt pans.
You stay at The Duke Hotel.
Nestled within the Duke Complex, the 38-room Duke Boutique Hotel is an ideal base from which to explore the entire island of Gozo. Centrally positioned in Victoria, the capital of Gozo, the hotel boasts magnificent views of the Citadel and Villa Rudle Gardens. Located on Victoria's main thoroughfare, lined with a variety of shops, banks, theatres, restaurants and markets. The main bus terminal and several bus stops are just a stone’s throw away, ensuring easy and efficient travel across the island by bus. This central location not only offers convenience but also immerses you in the vibrant heart of Gozo.
Originally established in the mid-1880s when a Maltese entrepreneur transformed a significant residential building into a high-quality hotel. The hotel was later acquired by a pro-British Gozitan businessman who renamed it the 'Duke of Edinburgh Hotel”. A notable event in its history was the visit by Queen Elizabeth II in 1951. Although the original building was demolished, in 2017 the Duke Boutique Hotel opened under the management of Jason and Sharon Galea.
Since 2018, the hotel has been Eco Certified, adhering to the stringent standards of the Malta Tourism Authority. This was achieved through improvements such as the installation of a rooms management system (REMS) with sensors to switch off air conditioning units and lights when no one is present in the room and the implementation of a food waste policy that includes education, food waste prevention, reduction, recycling, and disposal. The Duke Boutique Hotel is also actively engaged in the local community, supporting various foundations and providing educational training and career exposure opportunities for school children.
The buffet breakfast is a selection of freshly prepared hot and cold options served in the breakfast room, lounge and weather permitting on the 4th floor of the hotel with stunning views all around. Other services include a variety of In-Room Treatments so you can relax and be pampered in the comfort of your own room.
All 38 rooms have a classic contemporary design. The Garden View Room features a balcony overlooking the Villa Rudle Gardens. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with either a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Bathrooms feature rain shower heads, shower or bath.
Room upgrades: Terrace Room with Jacuzzi Hot Tub or Citadel Spa Room with Terrace and Sauna All Terrace Rooms feature a private terrace with a Jacuzzi Hot Tub, offering views of Victoria’s skyline. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Bathrooms feature rain shower heads, shower or bath. Private terraces are equipped with sunbeds, pergola sunshades and pool towels. Jacuzzi hot tub may be heated up to 40C (32C recommended in winter).
Citadel Spa Rooms offer a luxury experience featuring a private terrace with Jacuzzi Hot Tub and stunning views of the Citadel. Designed for ultimate relaxation, rooms include a private Sauna, while the bathroom is equipped with a Jacuzzi Hammam. The Hammam offers a Turkish bath experience for extra pampering. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with either a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, coffee machine, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Private terraces are equipped with sunbeds, pergola sunshades and pool towels. Jacuzzi hot tub may be heated up to 40C (32C recommended in winter).
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
To the west coast of Gozo and the fascinating Punic burial site at Wardija Point. There's a mythical feeling here, like being on the edge of the world. Narrow stone-walled lanes lead down to bamboo groves and to Fungus Rock (named after the 'magic' plant which grew there), the former site of the Azure Window and the Inland Sea.
You stay at The Duke Hotel.
Nestled within the Duke Complex, the 38-room Duke Boutique Hotel is an ideal base from which to explore the entire island of Gozo. Centrally positioned in Victoria, the capital of Gozo, the hotel boasts magnificent views of the Citadel and Villa Rudle Gardens. Located on Victoria's main thoroughfare, lined with a variety of shops, banks, theatres, restaurants and markets. The main bus terminal and several bus stops are just a stone’s throw away, ensuring easy and efficient travel across the island by bus. This central location not only offers convenience but also immerses you in the vibrant heart of Gozo.
Originally established in the mid-1880s when a Maltese entrepreneur transformed a significant residential building into a high-quality hotel. The hotel was later acquired by a pro-British Gozitan businessman who renamed it the 'Duke of Edinburgh Hotel”. A notable event in its history was the visit by Queen Elizabeth II in 1951. Although the original building was demolished, in 2017 the Duke Boutique Hotel opened under the management of Jason and Sharon Galea.
Since 2018, the hotel has been Eco Certified, adhering to the stringent standards of the Malta Tourism Authority. This was achieved through improvements such as the installation of a rooms management system (REMS) with sensors to switch off air conditioning units and lights when no one is present in the room and the implementation of a food waste policy that includes education, food waste prevention, reduction, recycling, and disposal. The Duke Boutique Hotel is also actively engaged in the local community, supporting various foundations and providing educational training and career exposure opportunities for school children.
The buffet breakfast is a selection of freshly prepared hot and cold options served in the breakfast room, lounge and weather permitting on the 4th floor of the hotel with stunning views all around. Other services include a variety of In-Room Treatments so you can relax and be pampered in the comfort of your own room.
All 38 rooms have a classic contemporary design. The Garden View Room features a balcony overlooking the Villa Rudle Gardens. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with either a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Bathrooms feature rain shower heads, shower or bath.
Room upgrades: Terrace Room with Jacuzzi Hot Tub or Citadel Spa Room with Terrace and Sauna All Terrace Rooms feature a private terrace with a Jacuzzi Hot Tub, offering views of Victoria’s skyline. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Bathrooms feature rain shower heads, shower or bath. Private terraces are equipped with sunbeds, pergola sunshades and pool towels. Jacuzzi hot tub may be heated up to 40C (32C recommended in winter).
Citadel Spa Rooms offer a luxury experience featuring a private terrace with Jacuzzi Hot Tub and stunning views of the Citadel. Designed for ultimate relaxation, rooms include a private Sauna, while the bathroom is equipped with a Jacuzzi Hammam. The Hammam offers a Turkish bath experience for extra pampering. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with either a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, coffee machine, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Private terraces are equipped with sunbeds, pergola sunshades and pool towels. Jacuzzi hot tub may be heated up to 40C (32C recommended in winter).
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
Beginning at Qala, it's an easy stroll to Dahlet Qorrot, a tiny harbour with gaily coloured boat houses. Then it's on through fragrant lemon groves and vineyards and past fig and peach trees to San Blas Bay, a hidden beach with gorgeous ochre-coloured sand. Your final stop is Nadur where the spectacular views at the end of the day are a great finale to your week.
You stay at The Duke Hotel.
Nestled within the Duke Complex, the 38-room Duke Boutique Hotel is an ideal base from which to explore the entire island of Gozo. Centrally positioned in Victoria, the capital of Gozo, the hotel boasts magnificent views of the Citadel and Villa Rudle Gardens. Located on Victoria's main thoroughfare, lined with a variety of shops, banks, theatres, restaurants and markets. The main bus terminal and several bus stops are just a stone’s throw away, ensuring easy and efficient travel across the island by bus. This central location not only offers convenience but also immerses you in the vibrant heart of Gozo.
Originally established in the mid-1880s when a Maltese entrepreneur transformed a significant residential building into a high-quality hotel. The hotel was later acquired by a pro-British Gozitan businessman who renamed it the 'Duke of Edinburgh Hotel”. A notable event in its history was the visit by Queen Elizabeth II in 1951. Although the original building was demolished, in 2017 the Duke Boutique Hotel opened under the management of Jason and Sharon Galea.
Since 2018, the hotel has been Eco Certified, adhering to the stringent standards of the Malta Tourism Authority. This was achieved through improvements such as the installation of a rooms management system (REMS) with sensors to switch off air conditioning units and lights when no one is present in the room and the implementation of a food waste policy that includes education, food waste prevention, reduction, recycling, and disposal. The Duke Boutique Hotel is also actively engaged in the local community, supporting various foundations and providing educational training and career exposure opportunities for school children.
The buffet breakfast is a selection of freshly prepared hot and cold options served in the breakfast room, lounge and weather permitting on the 4th floor of the hotel with stunning views all around. Other services include a variety of In-Room Treatments so you can relax and be pampered in the comfort of your own room.
All 38 rooms have a classic contemporary design. The Garden View Room features a balcony overlooking the Villa Rudle Gardens. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with either a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Bathrooms feature rain shower heads, shower or bath.
Room upgrades: Terrace Room with Jacuzzi Hot Tub or Citadel Spa Room with Terrace and Sauna All Terrace Rooms feature a private terrace with a Jacuzzi Hot Tub, offering views of Victoria’s skyline. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Bathrooms feature rain shower heads, shower or bath. Private terraces are equipped with sunbeds, pergola sunshades and pool towels. Jacuzzi hot tub may be heated up to 40C (32C recommended in winter).
Citadel Spa Rooms offer a luxury experience featuring a private terrace with Jacuzzi Hot Tub and stunning views of the Citadel. Designed for ultimate relaxation, rooms include a private Sauna, while the bathroom is equipped with a Jacuzzi Hammam. The Hammam offers a Turkish bath experience for extra pampering. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with either a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, coffee machine, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Private terraces are equipped with sunbeds, pergola sunshades and pool towels. Jacuzzi hot tub may be heated up to 40C (32C recommended in winter).
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
Depart Victoria after breakfast
If you'd like to extend your trip with extra hotel nights we recommend: Excelsior Grand Hotel Malta, Valletta; Hotel Phoenicia, Malta.
The 5 star Excelsior Grand Hotel Malta has magnificent views overlooking Marsamxett Harbour and Fort Manoel and is ideally placed just 2 minutes away from the walled old town centre of the Maltese capital of Valletta. It is a relaxing haven in the bustling city and its facilities boast both an indoor and outdoor pool, (pool towels available), gym, hairdressing salon, relaxing bar area with beautiful views, restaurant and impressive spa facilities.
There are a variety of rooms on offer, including the sea front rooms with amazing views, all rooms have satellite television with international channels, tea and coffee making facilities, mini bar, large safe and air conditioning and free wifi is available throughout the hotel.
The Hotel Phoenicia is a large, elegant hotel just outside the old city walls of Malta's capital, Valletta, and just 3 minutes walk from the city gate. It has retained its original architecture based on the grand style of the 1920's, with a luxurious classical decor and a blend of warm hospitality and old world service.
Unusually for a city hotel, it has extensive and quiet rear gardens with an open-air rotunda, mini golf course, gazebo, and outdoor swimming pool (heated in winter). A lovely place to stretch your legs or relax with a good book away from the hubbub of the city.
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £396.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into Malta airport. We can provide transfers from the airport, please contact us for details and prices.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment. *Unfortunately, due to the airline themselves we are unable to book Ryanair.
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
twin centre
Level: 2
Moderate
Flights
available
17.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App