Beyond guidebooks around the Maltese islands (part II.)

Did anyone say Malta was relaxing? It’s time to rethink. With a territory 5 times smaller than London, this charming place has a lot to offer the adventurous traveler. Getting above or underwater, hanging from the rock or racing off-road, Malta is slowly getting on the bucket list of adrenaline junkies.

1. Rule the skies

Freedom. Lightness. Altitude. Being a pilot of a microlight aircraft, stepping out of your comfort zone will get you to a different state of mind. Either you take the control over or just sit back and enjoy the scenic beauty from bird’s eye view, the experience will blow your mind. If you are long-term on the rock, you can also get a course done for your microlight pilot license.

Flylab Tucano SRL in the fleet of Island Microlight Club (photo credit: Mark Busuttil)

2. Get on the rock

Challenge the outdoors and climb the rocks of Gozo throughout the year. Either you are beginner or experienced climber, whether you go for climbing, abseiling or bouldering, Calypso’s island has it all in just 67 km².

Climbing the Azure Window in Gozo (photo: journeyfiles)

3. Conquer winds and waves

Windsurfing addicts can live their passion on the Maltese islands by looking for designated spots and get out to the sea early morning. Check out Windsurf Malta for more information or master the techniques with Alpha School Malta.

Windsurfing (photo: Alpha School Malta)

4. Go off-road

No mountains? No problem. Rent a MTB and hit the long country roads, off-paths and narrow streets, enjoy the fresh breeze of the sea and feel the freedom looking at the striking coastlines. Choose the mild months from October to May to make the most out of your biking adventure in the rocky islands.

Biking off-path the Maltese islands (photo: MC Adventure)

5. ‘Quading’ around

What is a better way to explore the Gozitan landscape than hopping on a quad and navigate around valleys and salt pans, picturesque bays and charming villages? Either you opt for individual or guided tour, the fun ride gets you closer to people and places along your way.

Get on a quad in Gozo (photo: journeyfiles)

6. Walk those boots

Put on your trekking boots and get lost in the island’s off-path roads, explore the flora and fauna, ancient forts and roadside chapels of this Mediterranean land. Just one thing: avoid the extreme heat of the peak-season from July to September.

Scenic trekking spot – Gnejna Bay (photo: journeyfiles)

7. Make that catch

Get together with local fishermen, sail out to the open sea and wait for that catch. Follow the traditions on a colorful luzzu, speed it up on a powerboat, or join the 30 feet cabin boat fishing trip. At the end of the day no one can say that you didn’t work hard enough for your evening meal.

Fishing the traditional way (photo: journeyfiles)

8. Race against time

Take the fast lane on the raceway and go for badger karting for a good amount of adrenaline infusion. Speed it up and make those rounds to be the first to cross the finish line.

Speed it up on the racetrack (photo: Badger Karting Malta)

9. Kayaking on the crystal sea

Paddle around the unspoilt coastline, explore the sea caves then cool yourself in the crystal water. Make your day complete with a snorkeling adventure to get a glimpse of the underwater treasure lying beneath.

Paddle around the islands (photo: Sea Kayak Malta)

10. Descending

The list wouldn’t be complete without Malta’s top attraction for the adventurous soul. Descend the azure water to experience the unique underwater world of the Maltese islands. Certified divers can explore the almost untouched hidden dive sites joining the Malta Diving Center for an unforgettable day.

Descending in Gozo (photo: journeyfiles)

Off the beaten track around the Maltese islands:

• Explore Valletta’s secret art galleries
• Discover the hidden village of Birzebbuga
• Try the best local seafood recipes
• Enjoy some of the greatest wines in Malta’s best wine bar
• Fine dine by The Chef
• Let your hair down in the islands’ mind-blowing nightlife