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Foresta 2000

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Animal habitat
—°10
Foresta 2000 (Malta)

Weather…

Foresta 2000 is an ambitious reforestation project situated on the slopes of the Marfa Plateau in Mellieħa, directly below the historic Red Tower. The initiative is a collaborative management effort between BirdLife Malta, Din l-Art Helwa, and the government agency PARKS. Its primary objective is the restoration of a Mediterranean woodland ecosystem, mirroring the natural habitats that existed prior to widespread deforestation. Geographically, the site encompasses a diverse mosaic of woodland, garrigue, and steppe habitats, fostering high levels of biodiversity. Since its inception in 1995, thousands of indigenous trees and shrubs, including Aleppo Pine, Holm Oak, and Lentisk, have been meticulously planted. Today, the area provides a critical sanctuary for various bird species, insects, and reptiles, while offering scenic trails with panoramic views of Mellieħa Bay. Foresta 2000 stands as a successful model for ecological rehabilitation and environmental education within the Maltese Islands.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C151415161923262725232016
Rain mm74655133171141063829582

📋 Practical info

📅
Best season
Spring and autumn are the best seasons as many migratory birds stop in the restored woodland. Summer is often too hot for active animal watching.
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Best time of day
Dawn and dusk are most productive when birds and other animals forage. At midday most species retreat to shade.
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Etiquette
Stay on marked paths to avoid disturbing the sensitive reforestation. Do not feed wildlife and take all litter with you.
🎒
What to bring
Binoculars for birdwatching and a field guide to Mediterranean species are useful. Comfortable hiking shoes and sun protection are recommended.
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Getting there
The area is reachable by car via local roads north of Malta. There is a small car park; public transport is limited.
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What to expect
Animal density is lower here than in specialised reserves - enjoy the peaceful forest atmosphere. With luck you may spot rare songbirds or lizards.

Geography

Coordinates
35.96000, 14.35600

Facts

  • More than 20,000 indigenous trees and shrubs have been planted to date.
  • The reforestation project officially commenced in 1995.
  • Foresta 2000 is designated as part of the Natura 2000 network.
  • The site covers an expansive area of approximately 20 hectares.
  • It serves as a recognized nesting site for the Sardinian Warbler.
  • In 2007, 3,000 trees were destroyed in an act of vandalism but were subsequently replanted.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Ghadira Nature ReserveGhadira Nature Reserve<1 km · NWExplore →
Il-Qortin RidgeIl-Qortin Ridge2 km · NEExplore →
Il-Mistra RidgeIl-Mistra Ridge2 km · EExplore →
St. Agatha's Tower (Red Tower)St. Agatha's Tower (Red Tower)2 km · NWExplore →
Ghajn Tuffieha BayGhajn Tuffieha Bay2 km · SExplore →
Wardija HighlandWardija Highland4 km · SEExplore →
St. Paul's IslandsSt. Paul's Islands4 km · EExplore →
Cirkewwa Ferry TerminalCirkewwa Ferry Terminal4 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Foresta 2000 (10)

Calypso's Caves

Archaeological site in Mellieħa, caves associated with Greek mythology.

Santwarju tal-Madonna tal-Mellieħa

Church building in Mellieħa, Malta, a major pilgrimage site.

♿

Air Raid Shelters

Air raid shelters in Mellieħa used during World War II.

Painting on the stairs

Painted staircase in Mellieħa, a public art piece.

Our Lady of the Grotto

Grotto in Mellieħa dedicated to the Virgin Mary, open to visitors.

Maya Beach

Beach resort in Mellieħa with sandy shore and leisure facilities.

Tunnara Museum🏛 museum

Former artillery battery in Mellieħa, Malta, now a museum.

Għadira Bay

Sandy bay in Mellieħa, a popular swimming spot.

Fort Mellieħa

Fort in Mellieħa, a historic defensive structure.

View on Popeye Village

Viewpoint in Mellieħa overlooking the Popeye Village film set.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Foresta 2000?
An afforestation project near Mellieħa aimed at restoring a natural Mediterranean forest.
Can you hike in Foresta 2000?
Yes, there are beautiful trails with views of Ghadira Bay and the Red Tower.
Which trees were planted there?
Mainly native species such as Aleppo pines, holm oaks, and carob trees.
Do you have to pay for access?
No, the area is free to the public and well-suited for nature lovers.
Is the area suitable for mountain bikes?
Some paths are bikeable, but consideration should be given to hikers and young vegetation.
Foresta 2000: where is it located?
Foresta 2000 is located in Malta.
Foresta 2000: what is there to see?
Highlights include Calypso's Caves, Santwarju tal-Madonna tal-Mellieħa, Air Raid Shelters.
Foresta 2000: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Foresta 2000: why is it worth visiting?
Foresta 2000 is an ambitious reforestation project situated on the slopes of the Marfa Plateau in Mellieħa, directly below the historic Red Tower.
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Nature

Coral Lagoon (Malta) — Foresta 2000 (Malta)
Coral Lagoon (Malta)
A large sea cave with a collapsed roof, forming a hidden lagoon.
Qammieh Point — Foresta 2000 (Malta)
Qammieh Point
A rocky headland with great views towards Ghadira Bay and Gozo.
Golden Bay — Foresta 2000 (Malta)
Golden Bay
One of Malta's most popular sandy beaches.
🗺️
Mistra Bay
A sheltered bay near St.
Għajn Tuffieħa Bay — Foresta 2000 (Malta)
Għajn Tuffieħa Bay
A beautiful sandy beach surrounded by clay slopes and cliffs.

More places

City Sightseeing Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus — Foresta 2000 (Malta)
City Sightseeing Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus
An easy way for families to explore Malta's main attractions on an open-top bus.
Three Cities Ferry Service — Foresta 2000 (Malta)
Three Cities Ferry Service
A ferry service connecting Valletta to the Three Cities (Birgu, Senglea).
Ghadira Nature Reserve — Foresta 2000 (Malta)
Ghadira Nature Reserve
An important bird sanctuary and wetland, especially during bird migration seasons.
Bouncy Castles at Ghadira Bay — Foresta 2000 (Malta)
Bouncy Castles at Ghadira Bay
Inflatable water parks set up in Mellieha Bay during the summer.
Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals — Foresta 2000 (Malta)
Ghadira Bay Boat Rentals
Various watercraft are available for rent at the popular Mellieha beach.
Anchor Bay — Foresta 2000 (Malta)
Anchor Bay
The bay where Popeye Village is located, also used as an anchorage.
Popeye Village Fun Park — Foresta 2000 (Malta)
Popeye Village Fun Park
The original film set of the 1980 Popeye movie, now a theme park for families.
Il-Qortin Ridge — Foresta 2000 (Malta)
Il-Qortin Ridge
A narrow ridge located northeast of Mellieħa.