The hike from Buskett to Dingli Cliffs offers a unique experience of the beauty and tranquillity of the Maltese countryside. This five-kilometre circular hike is ideal for those looking for an easy hike with spectacular views.
The hike starts at the lush greenery of Buskett Woodland and leads up to the Dingli Cliffs, offering a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the fresh air and the stunning landscape of the surrounding valleys. The hike suits all fitness levels.
- Distance: 5 km
- Walking Time: 1 h 20 mins
- Level: Easy
- Uphill: 60 m
- Downhill: 50 m
- Highest Point: 253 m
Best time to go: anytime, but avoid mid-day heat between June and September
A Map of the Circular Hike from Buskett to Dingli Cliffs
How to Get to Buskett Woodland
Buskett Gardens can be reached by public transport or car. If you’re taking a bus, look for the direct routes from Valletta or use the Rabat bus and change it there. Check out this website for the schedule and routes. Please note that it takes about an hour to get there from Valletta.
Driving is faster and easier. Below is the exact location and parking area.
In general, public transportation in Malta is quite efficient, but it takes a long time to get around, especially if you want to visit natural places. Nevertheless, I recommend renting a car. For cheap rental cars, check out Discover Cars.
Getting There:
- Location: link to Google Maps
- Nearest bus stop: Buskett
- Walking distance from the bus stop: 5 minutes
- Frequency of the buses: every hour or less
- Parking available: car park location
The Start of the Hike
Our hike starts in the parking area close to the Buskett Gardens. I recommend you visit the Buskett Gardens as your last stop.
So head up the road and follow the tour map. Along the way, you will see some beautiful authentic farmhouses.
After 5-10 mins of walking, you will reach a rocky offroad path.
Keep walking for another 10 mins. You will see a vast quarry on your left. Avoid going there as it might be dangerous. The path will soon meet the road, and you will be next to Dingli Cliffs just a few minutes later.
Dingli Cliffs
Dingli Cliffs offer some of the most spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. The cliffs are 253 metres above sea level, making them the highest point on the Maltese Islands. They have been used as a lookout point to protect the Maltese against the Ottomans and other invaders.
The views from the Dingli Cliffs are incredible, and visitors can see for miles in all directions. You can view the lush terraced fields and the tiny, uninhabited Filfla Island. The cliffs are also an excellent spot for bird watching. And watching the sunsets is breathtaking. The sun sets over the Mediterranean Sea, casting a golden hue over the cliffs. It’s a magical sight and a great way to spend an evening in Malta.
Saint Mary Magdalene Chapel
Keep walking following the road until you see the Saint Mary Magdalene Chapel (Maltese: Kappella ta’ Santa Marija Maddalena). It is a Roman Catholic church devoted to Mary Magdalene. People also call it the Chapel of the Cliffs because of its beautiful views of the Dingli Cliffs.
The exact date of the chapel’s construction is unknown. It was first mentioned in 1446. The chapel was used by the farmers living nearby. By 1575, the chapel had fallen into disrepair and collapsed. It was later reconstructed in the seventeenth century.
The chapel is small and has a typical countryside church design. Above the entrance is a circular window that allows sunlight to enter when the door is closed.
Now head inwards and return to the Buskett Gardens. It will take around 25 mins of walking on the road.
Buskett Gardens
The Buskett Gardens have a name derived from the Italian ‘boschetto’. It means “small wood”. The gardens are in the Wied il-Luq Valley, located east of Dingli and west of Siġġiewi. They cover an area of 47 hectares.
The Buskett Gardens is the only woodland in Malta. It is a protected oasis of lush vegetation and wildlife. They are known for various trees: cacti, Mediterranean pines, capris and orange. They are also an Important Bird Area (IBA). The area hosts a range of bird species, including those which rest here over their seasonal migration. Visitors might be fortunate enough to see painted frogs, the only subspecies of amphibians native to Malta. You can also spot Algerian hedgehogs and chameleons.
The Knights of Malta planted the Buskett Gardens and built Verdala Palace in the 16th century. The Verdala Palace stands uphill at the edge of the Gardens. Grand Master Hughes de Verdalle built it in 1588 as a summer house and hunting lodge. Since 1987, the palace has been the summer residence of the President of Malta. It is not open to the general public except on certain occasions.
Buskett Gardens in Malta is a beautiful place to visit any time of year, especially in spring and summer. The gardens are full of colourful flowers and blooming trees in spring, creating a picturesque landscape. In summer, they provide shade from the intense Mediterranean sun. There are plenty of activities, from strolling the grounds to enjoying a picnic lunch. Buskett Gardens is the perfect destination for a relaxing day with its peaceful atmosphere and lovely views.
