A walk along the Delimara peninsula to its point, passing a lighthouse, a British fort and the remains of a Hospitaller battery, with swimming places on the eastern shore.
The Delimara Point and Lighthouse Walk explores the southern tip of the Delimara peninsula in south-eastern Malta, beginning near Delimara Lighthouse (Marsaxlokk MXK) and following the headland's lanes and shoreline. The route passes the lighthouse, a British-era fort and the remains of a Hospitaller battery, and offers swimming places along the eastern shore. Distances are short and the terrain is mostly flat, so the walk is easy, though total length depends on how far visitors extend it.
Access is by public transport and then on foot or by taxi. Malta Public Transport routes 81 and 85 run from Valletta to Marsaxlokk, and the day bus from Valletta Bus Terminus costs EUR 2.00 in winter and EUR 2.50 in summer, valid for two hours with free transfers. The peninsula's far end lies a considerable distance beyond the village, so many visitors take a taxi out and walk back, or drive and use roadside parking. No permit is required.
Surfaces include narrow tarmac, gravel tracks and bare limestone near the coast. The headland is open and wind-exposed, with almost no shade, so sun protection matters from late spring to early autumn. There are no refuge huts, and water, snacks and a hat should be carried because facilities near the point are minimal. The rock near the shore is uneven and can be slippery, and some edges drop abruptly into the sea.
Key landmarks include the lighthouse at the point itself, the fort dating from the British period, and the ruins of the Hospitaller battery, which recall the peninsula's long role in defending Marsaxlokk Bay. Along the eastern shore are rocky coves used by local swimmers, and the views take in the open sea towards the east and the bay with its fishing boats. Wildflowers and scrub add seasonal colour in winter and spring.
A natural turn-around is the lighthouse or the last cove explored, followed by the return to Marsaxlokk for a meal. Walkers should check conditions before swimming, since strong winds and swell make the rocky shoreline hazardous. The peninsula also hosts industrial structures near its base, so the quietest, most scenic parts are towards the point.
| Difficulty | easy |
|---|---|
| Best season | October to May |
| Address | Delimara Lighthouse, Marsaxlokk MXK, Malta |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Marsaxlokk
What to bring
Water, sun hat, sturdy shoes
Location
Delimara Lighthouse, Marsaxlokk MXK, Malta
35.8220, 14.5590 View on map
Highlights
- Delimara Lighthouse at the southern tip of the peninsula
- A British-era fort and the remains of a Hospitaller battery
- Rocky swimming places along the eastern shore
- Sea views over Marsaxlokk Bay and the open Mediterranean
Tips for visiting
- Carry water and a sun hat; the headland offers almost no shade or services.
- Consider a taxi out from Marsaxlokk and a walk back, as the point is far from the village.
- Wear sturdy shoes, since rock near the shore is uneven and slippery.
- Check sea conditions before swimming; swell and wind make the shoreline hazardous.
- Visit between October and May for comfortable walking temperatures.
When to visit
October to May is the best period for walking, and early morning or late afternoon gives softer light. Summer midday is hot with no shade on the headland.
Accessibility
The route is not designed for wheelchair users, as shoreline and coves involve uneven rock. Paved lanes near the lighthouse are comparatively level, but accessible facilities are not provided.
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Frequently asked questions
What can be seen on the Delimara Point walk?
Highlights include Delimara Lighthouse, a British-era fort, the remains of a Hospitaller battery and rocky swimming places on the eastern shore.
How does a visitor reach Delimara Point?
Buses 81 and 85 from Valletta serve Marsaxlokk, and from there visitors continue on foot or by taxi. The point is a considerable distance beyond the village.
Is there shade or water on the route?
Shade is minimal and facilities near the point are limited, so water and sun protection should be carried.
Can visitors swim along the route?
Rocky swimming places exist on the eastern shore, but the rock is uneven and conditions can be hazardous in wind or swell.