Dingli Cliffs in Malta: A Guide to One of Malta’s Best Loved Gems

Malta and Gozo are best known for their sun-kissed beaches and crystal-clear waters, but the islands also offer a few pretty countryside escapes. One of the most popular spots for nature lovers and casual strollers is Dingli Cliffs.

Set on Malta’s western coast, Dingli Cliffs rise some 230 meters above sea level, making them one of the highest points on the island. From here, you’ll be treated to plenty of panoramic views across the shimmering Mediterranean Sea all the way to the remote islet of Filfla

If you’re planning to explore this scenic destination, here’s a quick guide to ensure you make the most out of your trip to Dingli Cliffs.

Dingli Cliffs remain largely unspoiled, providing a near pristine stretch of Maltese countryside and coastline perfect for a leisurely walk or hike. The elevation here offers awe-inspiring views of the dazzling blue Mediterranean. The cliffs snake gently along the coast, with paths safely set back from the cliff edges, making it an ideal spot for relaxing walks.

In some areas the stark white cliffs drop dramatically right into the sea. Elsewhere steep slopes lead down to patches of fields and farmland, which have been tended by local families for generations. The only manmade landmark of note here is a little shoebox of a chapel dedicated to St Mary Magdalene, which is comprised of a single doorway and a small oculus window. It makes for a picturesque photo opportunity, especially come sundown.

The trail from Ras id-Dawwara to the Dingli Cliffs Viewpoint takes about an hour and a half to complete at a leisurely pace. For a shorter walk, you can customise your route to fit your schedule or energy level. While exploring, keep in mind that most of the paths leading down to the terraced fields are privately owned, so it’s important to avoid trespassing. Stick to the main clifftop walkway and you’ll be fine.

For those looking to extend their hike, follow the coastal path south towards Qrendi, where you’ll eventually find the megalithic temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra. Starting from the Magdalene Chapel, it should take you around two hours to reach the temples at a steady pace.

The Chapel of Mary Magdalene is one of the most popular Dingli Cliffs viewpoints, and is an especially great spot to soak up the gorgeous sunsets this area of the island offers. Perched right near the cliff’s edge, this tiny chapel features a simple façade with a single doorway and a small oculus window. When open, you’ll find a limestone altar inside and an altarpiece depicting Mary Magdalene kneeling before the resurrected Christ. Although the chapel’s origins remain unclear, records confirm that a chapel stood on this site as early as 1446. By 1575, it had fallen into disrepair and was eventually rebuilt in 1646, with a Latin inscription above the doorway commemorating its reconstruction.

The chapel was primarily used by farmers working the nearby fields and served as a key navigation point for fishermen, thanks to its elevated position overlooking Dingli’s expansive limestone cliffs.

Getting to Dingli is pretty straightforward, with several routes available depending on your location.

The easiest way is to take a bus from the Valletta Bus Terminus. Route 56 will drop you directly at the Maddalena bus stop, right along the promenade by the cliffs. If you plan to return to Valletta, note that buses from the cliff area stop running in the evening, so you may need to walk into Dingli’s town centre to catch a return bus.

For those staying in Qawra, take Route 186 to Rabat Saqqajja bus stop, where you can transfer to Route 201, which leaves every 30 minutes for Dingli.

Driving is also an option, with clear signs directing you to the cliffs once you reach Dingli. Be aware that some of the country roads can be a bit rough and bumpy.

Dingli and Dingli Cliffs are not particularly touristy, so don’t expect many public facilities. There are a few convenience shops in Dingli’s town centre and a couple of restaurants along the cliffs, but opening hours can vary by season. To be safe, it’s always best to pack some snacks and water before heading out.

Next to the Chapel of Mary Magdalene, you’ll usually find a small food kiosk offering fruit, snacks, and local products like liqueurs, nougat, and honey. They also serve Maltese coffee, infused with aniseed, cloves, and chicory (known locally as “ċikwejra”), which is a must-try for coffee lovers looking for a local twist.

After taking in the breathtaking views at Dingli Cliffs, stroll through the quiet streets of Dingli Town to experience authentic Maltese village life. While there are no major attractions, the piazza outside St. Mary’s Parish Church is a charming spot, and you’ll find a few family-run restaurants and bars serving traditional Maltese staples.

Just a short distance from Dingli, Buskett Gardens is Malta’s most extensive woodland and a perfect spot for a picnic or a relaxing walk among groves of olive trees, citrus orchards, and tall pines. Once established as a hunting ground by the Knights of St John, it’s now a peaceful retreat.

If you’re visiting on June 28th or 29th, don’t miss L-Imnarja, a traditional harvest festival held in Buskett Gardens. Locals gather for an evening of folklore, including għana (Maltese folk singing), and indulge in traditional dishes like rabbit stew.

Just a 10-minute drive from Dingli, Rabat offers a wealth of historical attractions, making it an ideal addition to your nature-filled day. Explore sites like the Roman Villa, St. Paul’s Catacombs, and WWII shelters, or take a short trip to the nearby citadel of Mdina for more historical wonders.

If you’re staying at one of our award-winning AX Hotels in Sliema, Qawra, or Valletta, our dedicated service team can offer tailored recommendations to help you get the most out of your visit to Dingli Cliffs. Let us enhance your experience with expert tips and suggestions for a perfect day out.