The Majjistral Nature and History Park

The Majjistral Park, located in the Northwest of Malta, includes a number of beautiful beaches and natural attractions

The Majjistral Park is the only natural park in Malta, located in the Northwest part of the island, extending from Golden Bay to Anchor Bay (also known as Popeye village), including coastal cliffs as well as a rich ecological, cultural and rural heritage.

The park features cart-ruts, rubble walls, farmhouses, tombs dating back to the Classical period, caves, and a number of ‘giren’ or huts that were used by hunters for storage and shelter. There are also remains of British military architecture dating to the early 20th century, amongst which is a military shooting range. ‘Majjistral’ translates to the ‘Northwest’ in Maltese, and that is from where the Park got its name. The site was declared a National Park in 2007.

The area is mainly covered in Blue Clay, which is the rock layer sandwiched between the Globigerina limestone and the Upper Coralline Limestone. Being one of the softer types of rock, the clay erodes easily with the action of the elements, collapsing limestone structures and leaving a stretch of scattered boulders. Erosion also created the sandy beaches in the area such as Fomm ir-Rih, Gnejna, Ghajn Tuffieha, Golden Bay and Paradise Bay. Their relative inaccessibility meant that these beaches are less frequented and are therefore, amongst the most pristine and picturesque bays of the island.

The amazing landscape in the park attracts numerous trekkers during the cooler months. You can walk at your own leisure but there is also guided nature walks held every Sunday from October to May, subject to a minimum participation. You can book your walk by sending an email to walks@majjistral.org. You can also go horse riding in the area.