A country lane of about 3 km one way from Tas-Silġ chapel into open landscape on the Xrobb l-Għaġin headland, part of which is a nature park managed by Nature Trust Malta.
The Tas-Silġ to Xrobb l-Għaġin country walk is a quiet rural route on the Delimara side of Marsaxlokk in south-eastern Malta. It follows country lanes of roughly 3 km one way from the Tas-Silġ chapel (Marsaxlokk MXK) out into open garrigue and farmland on the Xrobb l-Għaġin headland, part of which is a nature park managed by Nature Trust Malta. The gradient is gentle, with only minor undulation, so total elevation gain is negligible and the walk suits first-time hikers and families with older children.
Access is by public transport and then on foot. Malta Public Transport routes 81 and 85 from Valletta serve 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. From the village the lanes lead uphill towards the Tas-Silġ area, a hilltop long associated with ancient sanctuary remains and a small chapel. Roadside parking is limited, and no permit is required for walking the public lanes.
The surface is mostly gravel, packed earth and old tarmac, with stone field walls on either side. Shade is scarce: the landscape is open, wind-exposed and treeless in many stretches, so summer heat can be intense. There are no public toilets, cafes or shops along the way, and no refuge huts or shelters, so water, a sun hat and snacks should be carried from Marsaxlokk, where the harbour front has cafes and restaurants.
The main interest lies in the coastal views over Marsaxlokk Bay, the colourful luzzu fishing boats seen from higher ground, and the changing flora of the Mediterranean scrub, which is at its greenest in winter and spring. Birdwatchers sometimes use the headland for migrating species. The Xrobb l-Għaġin park area offers a feel of the unspoilt south-east coast that is increasingly rare on the island.
A sensible turn-around point is the end of the lane near the headland, where the coastline opens up, giving a return walk of about 6 km in total, or around two hours at a relaxed pace. Walkers wanting a longer outing can link the route with the Delimara peninsula coastal paths. Because the headland is exposed, the route is best avoided in strong wind or the midday heat of July and August.
| Distance | About 3 km one way |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | Bus to Marsaxlokk (routes 81 and 85 from Valletta), then on foot; Malta Public Transport day bus from Valletta Bus Terminus; EUR 2.00 (USD 2.30) single in winter, EUR 2.50 (USD 2.88) in summer, valid for 2 hours with free transfers |
| Best season | October to May |
| Address | Tas-Silġ Chapel, Marsaxlokk MXK, Malta |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Marsaxlokk
What to bring
Sun hat, water, sturdy shoes; the track is gravel and there are no public toilets
Location
Tas-Silġ Chapel, Marsaxlokk MXK, Malta
35.8459, 14.5521 View on map
Highlights
- Quiet country lanes between stone walls on the Delimara side of Marsaxlokk
- Views over Marsaxlokk Bay and its colourful luzzu fishing boats
- Xrobb l-Għaġin headland, partly a Nature Trust Malta nature park
- Seasonal Mediterranean scrub flora and migrating birds
Tips for visiting
- Carry all water and snacks from Marsaxlokk; there are no shops or public toilets on the route.
- Walk between October and May to avoid the strongest heat; shade is almost absent.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the track is gravel and uneven in places.
- Take the return on the same lane, or retreat to Marsaxlokk if wind or heat becomes severe.
- Keep to the lanes and avoid entering fenced farmland or protected areas.
When to visit
October to May is the most comfortable period, with early morning or late afternoon best for light and cooler temperatures. Midday in July and August is hot and unshaded.
Accessibility
The route is not designed for wheelchairs; the gravel and uneven lane surface is difficult for wheelchairs and strollers beyond the first level stretch. The gradient is gentle, so walkers with limited mobility can manage short sections.
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Frequently asked questions
How long is the Tas-Silġ to Xrobb l-Għaġin walk?
The lane is about 3 km one way, so a return trip is around 6 km. It usually takes about two hours at a relaxed pace.
Is the walk difficult?
No. The terrain is gentle with negligible elevation gain, though the gravel surface and lack of shade make water and sun protection important.
How does a visitor reach the start?
Malta Public Transport routes 81 and 85 from Valletta serve Marsaxlokk, from where the lane to Tas-Silġ is followed on foot.
Are there facilities along the way?
No. There are no public toilets, cafes or shelters on the route, so supplies should be bought in Marsaxlokk beforehand.