Marsalforn: Bay, History and Walking Trails

Marsalforn offers two distinct perspectives to consider when planning a trip: the bay with its beach and promenade, and the harbour, historic sites and walking trails. If you are considering the town as a destination, you can first decide whether the coast, maritime history or trails will be the deciding factor for your stay.

Bay, Beach and Harbour

Marsalforn Bay has a sandy beach with small pebbles. A promenade runs behind the beach around the inner part of the bay. Conditions along the shore can change; if swimming is important to your plans, check conditions before your visit. Families with young children may prefer the sandy swimming area near Il-Menqa.

Off the coast of Marsalforn lies Għar Qawqla, a natural limestone formation. It was once a sea arch that collapsed over time. The formation provides a distinct geological landmark along the coast, alongside the beach and bay.

Colourfully painted Luzzu fishing boats can still be seen in the harbour, particularly around Menqa. Diving is also part of the town’s character: Marsalforn has several dive centres. The area on Għar-Qawqla Street is used for diver training; this use may change. If you plan to use the area for this purpose, check the current situation locally.

Trails and Views

Trails lead from the promenade towards Qbajjar. A walk from Marsalforn to Ramla starts at the bay, passes through the village of ix-Xagħra and ends at Ramla Bay. Local conditions can change; check them before setting out if you plan to take this route.

Two other options for choosing a walk differ in their form: a walk through Marsalforn Valley offers views, while the climb up Merżuq Hill also offers views. One route goes through a valley, the other climbs a hill. This lets you choose between these landscapes without assuming a walking time or level of difficulty.

A stone statue depicting Jesus with a large wooden cross stands on Tas-Salvatur Hill. It replaced a wooden cross erected earlier in 1904. The climb to the statue can be steep and uneven in places; take this into account when planning.

Church and Harbour History

The original church in Marsalforn was built in the 14th century. The present church was consecrated on 12 September 1939 and is dedicated to the shipwreck of Saint Paul. These dates provide two distinct historical reference points: the early church building and the consecration of the present church.

The harbour’s former importance is also part of the town’s history. Before the harbour of Mġarr gained importance, Marsalforn was an important harbour on Gozo’s north coast. Nearby are other places with histories of their own: Qbajjar Battery was built between 1715 and 1716; the salt pans near Xwejni are still in use. While the battery is part of the military heritage, the salt pans are notable for an activity that continues to this day.

Getting There and Getting Around

Marsalforn is accessible by car or public transport. If you are travelling by public transport, check the latest timetables in advance. The town has shops and other facilities for visitors.

Discover more destinations: Vittoriosa, Tarxien, Marsaskala, Birżebbuġa, Mellieħa, Żabbar, Żurrieq, Qrendi.

For the full travel overview: Malta.