There is no better place to cycle than in Malta. With its 5000 year history and culture crammed into just over 450km², you can see most of it within a couple of days on a bicycle. All you need is a mountain bike to deal with the vast maze of country paths and a helmet to keep you safe.
Cycling has been a growing sport in Malta, especially since the beginning of the new
millennium. Apart from the many cycling organisations which organise competitions
throughout the year, the younger generation is using bicycles as a travel alternative that keeps them fit and doesn’t cost anything.
In the last couple of years more adults have taken the example and started travelling to work on two wheels instead of four. With the rising price of fuel and maintaining a vehicle, cycling seems like the obvious alternative. The government slowly picked up on this and is improving the infrastructure by introducing bicycle lanes, parking bays for bicycles and even encouraged people to purchase bicycles by paying back part of the cost.
For those who prefer a quiet cycle with the family, Malta boasts some spectacular views from many rural parts of the country. Some spots are so secluded that vehicles can’t even reach them – but bicycles can. There is no better time to enjoy these spots in Spring, though cycling is possible throughout the year, with lots of sunny days, less cloudy days and far less rainy days. Temperatures are also very mild, with the average temperature throughout the year being 18°C.
Cycling is also present in the religious part of Malta. In the feast of Our Lady of Grace cyclists depart from Rabat and journey 14km to Zabbar, where the feast is celebrated. This pilgrimage, which started half a century ago, is held annually to celebrate the feast of the patron of cyclists. The aim of this pilgrimage is not distance but getting more people involved. In fact motorcycles have also begun participating and in total over 3000 participate every year.
One final tip on law and safety when cycling. Always use a helmet, use front and rear lighting during hours of darkness and follow the road signs if cycling on the road.