Malta’s intense terrain, with hills and valleys all over the place, means that, at least for the time being, there aren’t a whole lot of bike riders on a daily basis. 

However, the terrain also leads to some incredible scenic routes for more experienced bikers to get their hands – or wheels – all over. 

Here are some of the best routes for bikers around Malta and Gozo.

1. Victoria Lines

This high-altitude route is quiet, off-road, and it even comes with a bonus: you can see Sicily from here on a clear day.

2. Mġarr hills

Mgarr is a small town, with tons of wavy hills surrounding it. You can head down to the sea, or head deep into farm country – just decide whether you want to go east or west.

3. Xemxija to Għajn Tuffieħa

A bit of a long road, with some brutal uphills, but this is a must-do for anyone looking for a bit of a workout. 

4. Valletta fortifications

Get historical as you bike around Malta’s capital city. When you are done, head into the city for a year of awesome cultural events related to being crowned the European Capital of Culture. 

5. Coast road

One of the few places with a dedicated bike lane – at least for, like, 80% of it – this is a better route to do in winter than summer: it can get a bit smelly there in the hotter months.

6. Tarxien outskirts

With ancient temples, green valleys, and a lot of undeveloped land, this is a great place to go biking in all the months.

7. San Ġwann to Naxxar

This is for people who prefer urban biking. You’ll remain within city limits on this drive – but by the end, you’ll be in Naxxar. 

8. Mellieħa hills

Scenic seas, steep hills, and relatively quiet main roads – Mellieha could be a regular biker’s dream.

9. Fawwara trail

Expect to see more birds on this route due to the nearby nature park, as well as a multitude of ramblers. 

10. Gudja countryside

Head east from Gudja centre towards the Ħal-Għaxaq area to find some beautiful undeveloped lands and quiet roads. 

11. Luqa airport perimeter 

Try to head out for a group ride anytime there’s an airshow for a great background sky.

Be wary when it’s particularly windy though; you might come across a stray private jet.

12. Dingli promenade

Offroad, and with the steepest views in Malta, avoid this route when it’s windy or very rainy. 

13. Dwejra, Gozo, mountain route

Ride by one of the oldest chapels in Gozo dedicated to Our Lady of the Annunciation, and refresh yourself in a water spring nearby built during the times of the Knights of Malta. Head to Lunzjata valley to visit St. Gregory’s catacombs if you can fit it in.

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Johnathan Cilia

Johnathan is an award-winning Maltese journalist interested in social justice, politics, minority issues, music and food. Follow him at @supreofficialmt on Instagram, and send him news, food and music stories at [email protected]