Coastal walk Malta-Gozo: stage 2

From Rabat it goes back to the coast via small side roads. We hike north on a mixture of paved roads and dirt roads, the beautiful view is a constant companion. Before the small town of Baħrija we cross a small valley overgrown with reeds and then turn left just before the first houses of Baħrija. From the outskirts of Baħrija it goes downhill to a beautiful bay with crystal clear water. The paved road ends here, we continue on a narrow path. At waypoint 8 there is a direct ascent, which, however, leads over private property. On my first hike in Malta in 2020, it was easy to get through here, but this was no longer the case in 2023: barking dogs betrayed me and led to a discussion with the owner. The alternative is more recommendable anyway, because it has better prospects: Turn right at waypoint 8 and follow the creek overgrown with reeds for a good bit uphill. Keep to the right of the reed forest and follow the more or less clearly recognizable footpaths. Further up you come to a point where the stream can be crossed without any problems. From there it goes quite steeply uphill to a hill. Once at the top, turn left and you will find the last section of the "Victoria Lines". From here you have a wonderful view!

After the descent, you meet up again at waypoint 9 with the route from 2020. It's now a long way off. The further way is now easier to find again: past a prohibition sign (waypoint 10), which obviously only refers to cars and not to hikers, you go up to a hill from which a narrow path leads down directly below the cliff edge (Waypoint 11). From here, the destination of the stage is already clearly visible: the "Golden Bay" with a hotel complex that can be seen from afar. Rather than staying here, we recommend "St Paul's Bay" on the other side of the island, which is very easily accessible from by bus (5 km / 15 minute bus ride). Please refer Accommodation in St Paul's Bay.