Tour Malta by bike
You could be forgiven for thinking that the island of Malta was specifically designed for cycling.
This pint-sized holiday destination measures only 27 kilometres across in one direction, and a mere 15 kilometres in the other, so peddling around is easy. And it has a whole heap of official cycle routes to make use of.
If push bikes aren’t your style, there’s no shortage of motorised alternatives to hop on and get out among cobbled coves, beautiful architecture and rolling countryside.
Guided tours
Home to over 7,000 years of history, it can be a bit daunting deciding where to start on your two-wheeled Maltese expedition.
If you’re struggling to narrow it down, tour companies like Baja Bikes offer great excursions that take you through old towns and villages, along the coastline and even offer a little swim along the way.
Start in the ancient walled city of Valletta, known for its ornate palaces and grand churches, and as you venture along the coast your guide will share the fascinating stories behind the sights and sounds you experience.
With so many kilometres of official cycle routes across the island, you’ll find the journeys are easy-going, and suitable for children and older holidaymakers as well as the sprightly cycling enthusiasts among us.
If one island isn’t enough, look out for the cycle tours that include a short boat trip over to the neighbouring island of Gozo. Dotted with romantic bays and picturesque scenery, Gozo is lauded by many as a taste of truly authentic Maltese life.
Go it alone, at an easy pace
Cycling is pretty huge across the island of Malta, so wherever you’re staying you won’t find it hard to rent a bike. Baja Bikes and EcoBikes both have rental points in the popular resort of Bugibba, and you’ll get affordable options in Sliema and St Julian’s too.
Plot a route that takes you to the ancient megalithic temple ruins of Mnajdra and Hagar Qim, or visit the blue lagoon at Camino and cool off in the crystal clear waters.
Perhaps you’d like to visit the caves at Ghar Dalam and the Blue Grotto, or just pedal over to one of Malta’s many carefully-curated museums. Whatever your interest, there couldn’t be a better way to explore than at a leisurely pace under the warm Maltese sun.
For those who prefer a motor
Of course, you might want to squeeze as much sightseeing into every hour as possible – well for you, there are motorbikes.
Pick up a scooter, motorbike or even a quad from venues like Mike’s Rent A Bike and you could be whizzing around the island in no time. Obviously this option will require a driving license, but you can pick a vehicle with passenger space if you’re travelling as a group.
Helmets are included and they’ll even bring the vehicle to your hotel to save you from having to venture out on foot. What’s more, Malta’s weather means you won’t have to worry about riding in the wind and rain either – there’ll be plenty of glorious sunshine to aid you on your adventures.
You can be anywhere on the island within half an hour by motorbike, wherever you start, so there’s no excuse for missing any of the sights. Pick up a map from your bike rental provider, and a short-term insurance policy if your current travel insurance doesn’t cover you for motorcycling.
With so much to see and do, pack as much in as possible whatever the length of your stay by hiring some wheels and donning your sense of adventure.