A few weeks ago, we shared our favorite dog-friendly coffee shops for those lazy weekend vibes. Today, we're shifting gears to something more invigorating - hiking with your furry friend! Trust me, it's a win-win: You get your blood pumping (much needed if you're desk-bound during weekdays), and your doggo gets to explore. Whether you're up for a mild walk or an adventurous trek, I've got you covered. So, let's dive in!
1. Riviera Hike: Malta's Coastal Gem
Riviera Beach isn't just my top pick for its stunning views, but also for the fantastic coffee at Coffee Circus – the perfect start (or end) to any hike. The starting point is constant, but you can choose your adventure from there. Here’s a breakdown:
Important Note!
Be cautious: Strong northern winds can turn this hike into a challenging ordeal. Also, post-rain conditions can make the cliffs slippery and potentially hazardous.
Option 1 : Destination - Massive Rock
Duration: ~1 hour
Distance: ~2km
Difficulty: Medium
This path is a scenic delight. Wander along the cliffs overlooking Riviera Beach and feast your eyes on the splendid views of Qarraba Bay, Riviera Bay, and Gnejna Bay. Keep an eye out for the large rock shown above, your key landmark. En route, discover a hidden cave – just follow the red dots marking the path. It’s not a long hike, but sturdy shoes are a must for navigating the rocky terrain. My dog, Rodrigo, loves the challenge, but heavier dogs might find it tough. Towards the end, if the weather permits, there’s a boat slipway perfect for a refreshing dip - but be careful, it's slippery!
Option 2 : Destination - Gnejna Bay
Duration: ~2 hours
Distance: ~3km
Difficulty: Hard
I’ve explored Riviera more times than I can count, but this path was a recent discovery. It’s a beach hopper’s dream, connecting Riviera to Gnejna Bay. The trail can be slippery, hence the ‘hard’ rating. Good grip shoes are essential. At times, you might find yourself using your hands to balance – it’s all part of the adventure! The route offers breathtaking views and a simpler return via a path through the rocks towards Lippija Tower (a more direct route than Google’s suggestion). Rodrigo was in his element here and managed beautifully.
2. The Red Tower
The Red Tower, a mysterious and iconic landmark, is not just a piece of Malta's history – it's also the starting point for a fantastic dog-friendly hike. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this spot offers a perfect blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty for you and your furry friend.
Important Note!
Before you embark on this adventure, a word of caution for those with heavier dogs: the off-road terrain here can be quite rough, with prickly rocks and shrubs. My dog, Rodrigo, who weighs about 17kg and is quite agile, handles it well. However, if your dog is not as nimble, you might want to stick to the main paths. And if you're keen on exploring the Red Tower's historical secrets, keep in mind that dogs aren't allowed inside (we've tried!).
Destination - A Journey of Sunsets and Sunrises
Duration: ~1 hour
Distance: ~3km
Difficulty: Easy
This is a very easy route to walk your doggo - and perhaps even practice your skateboarding skills considering the flat road provided. This route is also great for enjoying a sunrise or a sunset. Sunrise can be seen on your east, and you can sit on the rock benches and just take in the beauty, whilst sunset can be seen at the very end of the road, going straight into the water beautifully (expert tip: take a pizza and wine and it would make for a great end to your evening). Walking back would be through the same route, and if you want to stay off the road due to potential cars, keep in mind that the path can be prickly due to the shrubs. At the radar station, there's some abandoned buildings to explore, but watch out as they do not seem very stable.
Route Alternatives :
While I haven't tried these myself yet, I've heard great things about two other routes starting from the Red Tower:
Head to Paradise Bay Beach: This route promises scenic views and a chance to discover the hidden Tuta Cave.
Trek to Popeye Village: Follow the coast from the Red Tower to reach the charming and famous Popeye Village.
3. Breathtaking Dingli Cliffs
Dingli Cliffs is undoubtedly a beautiful hike with its dramatic cliffs to explore with your pooches, especially in spring when the flowers in the fields start to bloom, and the weather tends to be mild. The ideal starting point is by the little cute chapel of St.Mary's, where you can park your car and start your hike up along the coast. At the chapel, there's usually a van parked that sells local delicacies among other things, in case you need to fuel up before you hike.
Destination - Panoramic Views
Duration: ~2 hour
Distance: ~7km
Difficulty: Medium Our usual route takes us along the coast, weaving through fields bursting with spring blooms, all the way to the renowned panoramic viewpoint marked on Google Maps. This spot is perfect for a break, enjoying some freshly baked bread while soaking in the stunning vistas. Keep your eyes peeled for the occasional flock of sheep dotting the landscape. For a change of scenery on your return, consider looping through Dingli Village to get back to your car. This route offers a glimpse into local life and different scenic views.
Route Alternatives :
If you and your pooch are up for a longer adventure, the trail from Dingli can extend all the way to Migra Ferha and beyond. This extended hike will take more than half a day for a round trip, so gauge your and your dog's stamina accordingly! It's an excellent way to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Malta's coastline.
Bình luận