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Il-Għallies Plateau

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Il-Għallies Plateau (Malta)

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The Il-Għallies Plateau is located in the northern part of Malta, near the village of Naxxar and overlooking Salina Bay. This geological formation is primarily composed of hard Upper Coralline Limestone, creating a distinct elevated flatland above the coastline. Historically, the area is noted for its defensive significance, evidenced by the nearby Għallies Tower built by the Order of St. John in the 17th century. The surface of the plateau features prehistoric cart ruts, indicating early human activity and transport across the rocky terrain. Geographically, the plateau provides a strategic vantage point over the North Malta Channel and the surrounding coastal valleys. The sparse vegetation consists of Mediterranean garigue, which has adapted to the wind-exposed conditions of the coastal heights. Today, parts of the plateau are used for agriculture, while other sections are managed to protect the local biodiversity.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C151415161923262725232016
Rain mm74655133171141063829582

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
Successfully reaching the expansive plateau typically involves a very short drive from the main scenic coastal road towards much smaller local secondary routes. Unpaved dirt tracks and rocky footpaths provide final walking access to the exposed limestone.
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Best season
The comfortably cooler months spanning from late autumn to early spring are generally the absolute best times for a visit to completely avoid the harsh midday sun. During the peak summer, the entirely unshaded rocks reflect intensely unmanageable heat.
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Terrain & paths
The incredibly solid ground here consists predominantly of vastly wide, totally barren expanses of completely exposed, weathered limestone with very sparse vegetation. Walkers must extremely carefully navigate highly sharp rocky outcroppings and deep fissures.
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What to bring
Very sturdy, completely closed-toe outdoor footwear with robust thick soles is absolutely essential to comfortably and safely traverse the highly jagged rocky surfaces. Adequate sun protection, including a wide hat, plus plenty of water, are strictly necessary.
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Parking
Occasional visitors can typically easily park their personal cars on completely informal pull-offs very near the main access roads or further down along the adjacent coastal strip. Always be careful to ensure your vehicle is parked perfectly securely.
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Safety
The continuously uneven natural rocky surface actually presents a highly constant tripping hazard, so remarkably careful footing is heavily advised at all given times. During particularly windy coastal days, the incredibly exposed plateau features absolutely zero shelter.
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Time needed
The vast majority of visitors usually spend only about one to two hours simply walking calmly across the barren plateau and thoroughly enjoying the totally uninterrupted sea views. It readily serves as a truly excellent brief stopover when exploring the island.

Geography

Coordinates
35.95200, 14.41500

Facts

  • The plateau is formed from Upper Coralline Limestone layers.
  • The nearby Għallies Tower was constructed in 1658 under Grand Master De Redin.
  • Ancient prehistoric cart ruts are visible on the rocky surface.
  • The area is part of the Natura 2000 network for ecological protection.
  • The average elevation of the plateau is approximately 40 meters above sea level.
  • It provides a clear view of the historic salt pans in Salina Bay.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Bugibba Jetty for Boat TripsBugibba Jetty for Boat Trips<1 km · EExplore →
Bird Park MaltaBird Park Malta1 km · SExplore →
St. Paul's IslandsSt. Paul's Islands2 km · NWExplore →
Mistra ValleyMistra Valley3 km · WExplore →
Wardija HighlandWardija Highland3 km · SWExplore →
Victoria LinesVictoria Lines4 km · SExplore →
GħargħurGħargħur4 km · SEExplore →
Vincent's Eco FarmVincent's Eco Farm4 km · SWExplore →

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 Il-Għallies Plateau (10)

Buġibba Water Park

Water park with slides and pools for families in Bugibba, Malta.

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Amazonia Beach

Sandy beach on Malta's north coast, near Bugibba.

Saint Francis of Assisi Church

Franciscan church in Qawra, Malta, dedicated to St Francis.

Super Auto Crash

Bumper car ride for children and adults.

Hornblower Cruises

Boat tour operator offering trips along the Maltese coast.

Malta Classic Car Museum🏛 museum

Museum displaying classic cars and automotive history in Malta.

Kennedy Grove🌳 park

Park with trees and paths in St. Paul's Bay, Malta.

Bathing pools

Ruins of old bathing pools, possibly Roman or British era.

Salina Nature Park

Nature reserve with salt marshes and birdwatching spots.

Malta National Aquarium

Large aquarium in Qawra featuring Mediterranean and tropical fish.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Għallies Plateau located?
It is located on the north coast of Malta, near Salina.
Are there watchtowers there?
Yes, the Għallies Tower stands right on the coast below the plateau.
Is the area built up?
It is largely natural and rocky.
Can you observe birds there?
Yes, it is a good spot for observing seabirds.
Are there shaded spots there?
No, the plateau is very exposed and treeless.
Il-Għallies Plateau: where is it located?
Il-Għallies Plateau is located in Malta.
Il-Għallies Plateau: what is there to see?
Highlights include Buġibba Water Park, Amazonia Beach, Saint Francis of Assisi Church.
Il-Għallies Plateau: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Il-Għallies Plateau: why is it worth visiting?
The Il-Għallies Plateau is located in the northern part of Malta, near the village of Naxxar and overlooking Salina Bay.
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Nature

🗺️
Mistra Bay
A sheltered bay near St.
Ta&#39; Ċinċ Hill — Il-Għallies Plateau (Malta)
Ta' Ċinċ Hill
A hill near Birkirkara that functions as part of the interior topography.
Victoria Lines Fault — Il-Għallies Plateau (Malta)
Victoria Lines Fault
A natural geological fault along which a line of fortifications was built in the 19th century.

More places

City Sightseeing Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus — Il-Għallies Plateau (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 — Il-Għallies Plateau (Malta)
Three Cities Ferry Service
A ferry service connecting Valletta to the Three Cities (Birgu, Senglea).
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Bugibba Jetty for Boat Trips
A major departure point for tourist boats to Comino and Gozo.
Bugibba Water Park — Il-Għallies Plateau (Malta)
Bugibba Water Park
A smaller, free water park on the Bugibba promenade, ideal for younger children.
Malta National Aquarium — Il-Għallies Plateau (Malta)
Malta National Aquarium
A modern aquarium featuring fish from the Mediterranean and tropical waters.
Kennedy Grove — Il-Għallies Plateau (Malta)
Kennedy Grove
A park area with a small playground, ideal for a picnic.
Bird Park Malta — Il-Għallies Plateau (Malta)
Bird Park Malta
A park housing a variety of birds from around the world, as well as other animals.
BirdPark Malta for Kids — Il-Għallies Plateau (Malta)
BirdPark Malta for Kids
A park where children can see and feed birds and other animals.