Maltese Nature and Agriculture Day Trip with Countryside Walk and Farm Visit

Sightseeing  :  Malta  :  Valletta  :  Valletta  :  Day Trips

During this tour you walk around the greenest area on the island. Tour also includes lunch in an organic lunch.This tour starts with a 3 kms walking tour from Mtarfa to the miniature ecosystem of Chadwick Lakes. Chadwick Lakes takes its name from the British engineer who built the water-management dam in the area 1890, Mr Osbert Chadwick. Situated between Rabat and Mtarfa this oasis of serene fresh water presents a perfect day of walking and trekking. The lakes form a miniature ecosystem which cradle a delicate habitat for various flora and fauna. Water constantly flows towards Mosta through a series of man-made structures. The curved walking path is around three kilometers in length and is a beautiful meditative walk when the Willow and Water Cress are in full bloom. Take time to look out for tadpoles and lake fish which are common in Chadwick Lakes. These walks are generally led by an experienced guide who will point out specific geology in the area, locations of historical interest, unusual aromatic herbs and garigue. Walking gear for Chadwick Lakes could be limited to standard hiking shoes and light trousers, however consider walking poles for additional stability. The terrain is generally dry but muddy spots may appear after winter rainfalls. Layer more clothes in the cold months. Coach picks you and the group from Mosta valley and drives through Mgarr and Pwales Valley towards Xemxija Heights. The group walks through a woodland, which was set up in the 70s. Various indigenous trees and shrubs flourish on the Mizieb ridge and the water table in the region has the best quality potable water on the islands due to good agriculture practices. In the Xemxija Heritage Trail, the visitors come across different Punic Roman tombs besides Paleo-Christian farming techniques such as the roman apiary, corn silo and natural caves used as dwellings.

At the end of the country-side walk, you will come in the garigue of Manikata, where you visit an organic farm and will experience an organic lunch with the farmer. Lunch consists of seasonal organic vegetables and salads, cheese and organic wine from indigenous vines. Maltese coffee will be prepared and served by Joe the farmer. An interesting talk will be given by the farmer about local organic farming and about the rich biodiversity of the garigue of Xaghra l-Hamra.

After lunch break, transport will be provided to take you to l-Ahrax tal-Mellieha, where you can enjoy a marvelous panorama of Mellieha Bay. The cliffs and the rocky shores provide a natural habitat for hardy succulent plants. Before returning to the hotel, the driver stops for a photo stop near the red tower, which was one of the strategical towers built by the Knights of Saint John. Visitors may enjoy a scenic view over the north countryside and Comino Island.