Discovering Malta by Bike
Adventure 23-05-2022
Determined to uncover the hidden gems that lay beyond the typical tourist routes, I embarked on a bike trip that would take me on an unforgettable adventure across this Mediterranean gem.
From the moment I set foot on Maltese soil, I knew I was in for a journey that would leave an indelible mark on me, as this was a test for future bike packing trip that I planned.
Join me as I recount the tales of my bike odyssey through Malta, where every turn of the wheel led to new discoveries and unforgettable experiences.
La Valetta
Nestled along the glistening shores of the Mediterranean Sea, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Valletta, Malta’s capital city, stands as a testament to centuries of history and architectural marvels.
You can feel the harmonious fusion of sea and city unfolded before my eyes with this panorama that encapsulated the essence of Valletta’s allure. With each passing moment, I fell deeper in love with the charm, history, and unmistakable character of this magnificent city by the sea.
At the heart of Valletta’s city center, a vibrant tapestry of sights and sounds awaited my eager exploration. Lithuania Bike Packing
The bustling streets teemed with life, as locals and visitors alike traversed the lively markets, quaint cafes, and bustling squares.
As I went along the waterfront, the captivating sight of traditional Maltese boats, known as luzzus, greeted me.
Against the backdrop of ancient fortifications and historic buildings,the traditional Maltese boats gently swayed, serving as a reminder of the island’s seafaring heritage.
Exploring La Valetta during the night
La Valetta is not great only with day light
And you will find interesting modern architecture
Exploring the Gozo Island by Bycicle
Leaving the bustling streets of Valletta behind, I set my sights on the tranquil island of Gozo, a haven of natural beauty waiting to be discovered.
How did I get to Gozo with a bicycle?
Nothing crazy (this time). I just booked a ferry, where for an additional fee you can bring a bike with you.
Embarking on my bike, I embraced the sense of freedom and anticipation that came with exploring a new terrain. As I pedaled along Gozo’s meandering roads, a breathtaking landscape unfolded before me.
Rolling hills, picturesque villages, and dramatic coastal cliffs greeted my every turn.
Navigating the untamed beauty of Gozo’s landscapes, I soon discovered that the island’s wilderness often led me down challenging paths, testing my endurance and rewarding me with unparalleled moments of triumph.
One of the highlights of my bike expedition through Gozo was the captivating Azure Window, a natural rock formation that once stood as an iconic landmark.
The azure waters of the Mediterranean framed the majestic limestone arch, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of nature’s artistry.
The sheer magnitude and delicate beauty of the Azure Window captured my imagination, reminding me of the transient nature of our world.
It was a reminder of the importance of cherishing natural wonders, as the arch has since succumbed to the passage of time and the relentless forces of the sea.
Nothing lasts forever, does it?
Back to La Valetta
Returning to Valletta after the exhilarating exploration of Gozo by bike, I found solace in the familiar streets of the Maltese capital.
As the afternoon sun bathed the city in a warm glow, I sought a moment of respite to unwind and reflect on my remarkable journey.
The ambiance was idyllic, with a gentle breeze carrying the tantalizing aroma of delectable Mediterranean cuisine.
You can also try rabbit with white wine!
The clinking of glasses, the laughter of fellow diners, and the soothing melodies of live music filled the air, creating a harmonious symphony of contentment.
It was the perfect culmination to an unforgettable adventure, where I could bask in the joy of accomplishment, savoring the flavors of Maltese cuisine while reflecting on the memories forged during my time on the captivating islands of Malta and Gozo.
What did I learn in this journey?
I was lucky to find a couple of locals in Gozo island.
We were talking for a while, on hows life and the conversation went to the side of life sleep right now.
The man also mentioned an interesting sentence:
‘More freedom but less freedom, do you know?’
At that moment I did not know how to interprete it.
We also touch the topic of housing prices, that have increased by a lot in the recent years.
What could be the reason?
- Decrease of interest rates when Malta joined the Euro?
- Being in euro gives more confidence to foreing investors to place money into Malta’s real estate?
- Not a dual option - probably a combination of more factors!
FAQ
Where to rent bicycles in Malta?
For this ocassion, I rented a MTB bicycle in advance, online.
The quality of service was excellent and I would recommend you to do similarly.
In the city center you also have bike rentals, but they are much more expensive for the quality offered.
