The best green spots in Malta
This is the best time of the year to go exploring in Malta. The weather is getting cooler, and nature is getting greener. Now the sweltering heat has gone, it’s the ideal time to be outdoors. The plants are thriving right now with the milder temperatures and floury of rain. You wouldn’t think so, but Malta has a lot of green spots to offer. There are plenty of gardens to discover. I love being amongst the trees. I find it really relaxing. It’s the perfect way to calm your mind after a busy week. Visiting one of these gardens would make a great day out! Take some time out for yourself and bring a book. Soak it all in! It’ll also be a memorable day out for the family. Bring a picnic and enjoy the great outdoors. The children will love running around in the safety of a sheltered area. It’ll be a nice break from the screens. Why don’t you bring along a football for some extra fun? Here is a list of all the best green spots in Malta for you to enjoy.
San Anton Gardens, Attard
This is my personal favourite. I have vivid memories visiting San Anton Gardens with my grandma as a little girl. I used to love feeding the ducks (although it’s advised you don’t feed the birds!). There is no other word to describe San Anton but serene. After all, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II stayed at the palace during her visits to Malta. San Anton has numerous fountains, all uniquely different. The fountains are home to an array of animals. You’ll be enchanted by the black swans and enthralled by the terrapins. You can spend hours watching the funny antics of the terrapins. There is also a maze you can get lost in. You’ll feel like you’re Alice in Wonderland as you keep discovering new attractions in the gardens. There are a range of different plants for the botanic enthusiast. And, if you’re lucky, you might spot the peacocks!
Buskett Gardens, Rabat
This is the place to be if you really want to be surrounded by trees. It’s the only woodland area in Malta. With an area of 47 hectares, it’s an excellent place for a walk. The name originates from the Italian ‘Boschetto’, meaning ‘small wood’. It was originally a hunting ground for the Knights of Malta. Buskett Gardens is famous for its citrus plantations providing the woodland with its foliage. There are several pathways you can follow, and you’ll be greeted with stunning views of Malta along the way. Buskett Gardens is also a great spot for bird-watching. You’ll be one amongst nature.
Argotti Botanic Gardens, Floriana
One of the quieter gardens in Malta to visit. It’s only a short walk from the capital of Malta, Valletta. It’s easy to reach by bus from anywhere on the island. Argotti Botanic Gardens was originally built by a knight. It’s the third oldest garden in the Commonwealth! It is now part of the University of Malta but open to visitors. There are a range of plants you can admire. You can also enjoy views of the fortifications from the gardens. There are plenty of benches to sit down and relax. This is the perfect place to read a book because it remains so calm.
Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta
Probably the most famous gardens on the island. The Upper Barrakka Gardens is a famous tourist destination. This doesn’t mean residents can’t enjoy their time here. Now is the best time to visit as the tourist numbers start to decline. You may not enjoy as much greenery here, but it comes with an exceptional view. Overlooking the majestic Grand Harbour, you’ll see the historic Three Cities. It’s the only natural harbour in the Mediterranean. Below you, the saluting battery is found. Strategically put in place to defend the city, they also act as ceremonial salute. There is so much history to discover at the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Take a ride up and down the Barrakka lift too while you’re there, and you’re sure to enjoy the view from all angles!
Ta’ Qali National Park, Attard
Ta’ Qali National Park is a very popular open space situated in the centre of the island. A large variety of plants are situated here. During World War II, it was originally used as an airfield. The Malta Aviation Museum is located here for the history nerds. Why don’t you also pop along to the Crafts Village whilst you’re here? You can find different kinds of traditional Maltese arts and crafts. You’ll also have the opportunity to see the famous Mdina glass created before your own eyes. The government has recently announced that it plans to double the size of the park. This will add 80,000 trees!
Chinese Garden of Serenity, Santa Lucija
If you feel like escaping the world for a little bit, then this is the perfect place to go. The
gardens were inspired by South East Asian philosophy. Its intended creation is to find peace. It is made of several small gardens, so there is much to enjoy. The organisation of the rocks and water represents the balance of yin and yang. You’ll be transported to a different continent with all its attention to detail. Be mesmerised by the Asian inspired fountains, bridges and waterfalls. This is the ideal place to visit for a quiet sense of reflection. You’ll find your inner zen. I can’t imagine a better place to meditate than here. If you haven’t tried it before, now is the time to give it a go!
Gnien il-Gibjun, Zurrieq
You’ll have to venture down South to discover this gem, but it’ll be worth the view. This isn’t the largest garden but relaxing none the less. The place boasts a play area for children if you come as a family. There’s also a bar so you can grab a beer whilst you enjoy your surroundings. It’s a lovely place to watch the sunset over the deep Mediterranean Sea. You’ll get a captivating view of the horizon. Amongst this, you’ll also see Filfla. Filfla is the smallest of the Maltese Islands. The name derives from the Arabic for ‘peppercorn’. It’s uninhabited and protected, home to rare species. Probably the only place in Malta that remains untouched. It’s an awe-inspiring image as it sits there in solitude.
Palazzo Parisio Gardens, Naxxar
Possibly the most picturesque gardens in Malta. The Italian baroque-style gardens are sure to delight. This is Malta’s only privately-owned gardens open to the public. It is managed to the highest standard. You’ll be greeted by an array of colours. Palazzo Parisio is home to many exotic plant species. This will thrill the budding botanist as there are over 60 species on site! A popular wedding value, you are sure to have plenty of Instagram worthy pictures. But don’t take my word for it, see it for your own eyes. However, don’t forget to note that entrance to the gardens will cost €5. It’s worth every cent in my opinion. And, being half-British, I cannot not recommend the splendid high tea at the gardens!
Marsa Sports Ground
If you want to enjoy some open plains, why not join Marsa Sports Club? You’ll also get fit along the way. The grounds offer a range of different sports. These include cricket, croquet, golf, squash, tennis and a fitness studio. Why not take this as an opportunity to try something new? This would be a great way to make some new friends, especially if you’ve just moved here.
Some people complain that there isn’t much greenery in Malta. As you can see, that isn’t the case at all. There are plenty of gardens to visit if you’re willing to explore. Now is the best time to do so. Malta has everything to offer. It’s the ideal destination to enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle. If you’re looking to relocate to the island, QuickLets will help you find your ideal rental property. Get in touch with one of our agents today for leading advice.