Feasibility Study for Malta

Plan for Cycle Routes on Malta and Gozo
Ministry for Urban Development & Roads of Malta
November 2007
The project has been supported by the Structural Funds Programme for Malta 2004-2006, Project part-financed
by the European Union: Interreg IIIB – ARCHIMED. Co-Financing Rate ERDF 75% - Malta 25%.
Colophon
The project has been followed by a technical working Group representing:
Ministry for Urban Development and Roads (MUDR): Ivan-Carl Saliba (Principal Officer and Project
manager) and Carla Farrugia (Principal Officer and Project Coordinator).
Malta Transport Authority (ADT): Audrey Testaferrata DeNoto
Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA): Lucien Stafrace
Malta Tourism Authority (MTA): Pauline Dingli.
Malta Cycling Federation: John Zammit and Cliff Micallef
The study and report have been prepared by Civil Engineer Jens Erik Larsen, who is bicycle consultant
at De Frie Fugle, Denmark and working for ECF, European Cyclists Federation.
The project has been supported by the Structural Funds Programme for Malta 2004-2006,
Project part-financed by the European Union: Interreg IIIB – ARCHIMED. Co-Financing Rate
ERDF 75% - Malta 25%.
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Preface
The first comment I heard about cycling in Malta was that the only time you can cycle in Malta is
Sunday morning between 7 and 9, when the car drivers are sleeping!
Now I realize, that several cycle tracks and cycle lanes have already been constructed by Malta
Transport Authority (ADT). But it is still not possible to cycle safely for more than a few kilometres.
However this will change in future! Thanks to the Ministry for Urban Development & Roads (MUDR)
of Malta, it has been possible to prepare this feasibility study in order to create the basis for future
development of cycle routes in Malta. The project is only meant to work on the level of planning, not
implementation.
The purpose of the project is to analyse the situation for cyclists and to propose initiatives and
implementations that can increase the possibilities for cycling in Malta - for tourists as well as for the
inhabitants.
One obvious possibility is to build a national network of cycle routes, like it has been the case in other
countries. A well-developed plan for national cycle routes is a good tool for politicians to refer to and
to use in general to promote Malta as a cycle friendly country. The existence of an overall plan will
make investments in the coming years more efficient. For example when roads are changed or
maintained at a place where a cycle route is planned, then the facilities for cyclists should be
implemented at the same time.
And when the Tourist authorities, etc., prepare guides and maps, they should be done in accordance
with the overall plan.
In addition, the project will help to build up capacity to implement and maintain the routes as well as
to promote co-operation between different sectors in Malta. A seminar where stakeholders meet and
discuss the network will be organized by MUDR.
Bicycle Tourism should have a good basis due to climate and landscape resources in Malta compared
with Denmark. And especially in wintertime, where people from Northern Europe like to go south,
Malta with its excellent climate and hotel capacity, is an attractive proposal.
One has to keep in mind that – like Rome was not build in one day – it will take some years to develop
Malta from the level of today, with nearly no cycling, into a paradise for cyclists including cycle
tourists. But this report and the technical manual will hopefully play an important role to kick off the
development.
Malta Transport Authority has already started the process, as mentioned. Besides building cycle tracks
some years ago more than 100 bicycle parking stalls, like the ones shown on the cover of this report,
were installed around the Islands. Until now very few have been used for their purpose, but these
“sculptures” enrich the landscape with the positive message that a process has started to change Malta
into a cycle friendly country, where tourist can cycle safely and enjoy the rich culture and nature.
October 2007
Jens Erik Larsen
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INDEX
1. Introduction
1.1 CYRONMED
1.2 Malta – a part of EuroVelo 7
1.3 Standards and definitions
1.3.1 EuroVelo Standards
1.3.2 Criteria for the general EuroVelo route selection
1.3.3 Definitions to be used in CYRONMED
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2.Work Methods and basic information
2.1 Work method and planning tools
2.2 Survey about Malta
2.2.1 Traffic culture
2.2.2 Climate
2.2.3 Developing cycling and cycle tourism
2.2.4 Landscape planning
2.3 Method of registration
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3. Results of registrations
3.1 Existing cycle routes and other facilities for cyclists
3.1.1 Signs for cyclists
3.2 Services for cyclists
3.2.1 Accommodation
3.2.2 Restaurants, cafes, shops and tearooms
3.2.3 Bike repair shops and bike rentals
3.2.4 Bike parking and park & bike
3.2.5
Other initiatives
3.3 Historical and natural attractions
3.4 Infrastructure relevant for cyclists
3.4.1 Buses and taxis
3.4.2 By air, ferries and tourist boats
3.4.3 Minor Roads
3.4.4 Rambling (walking) routes
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4. The proposed cycle routes including maps
4.1 Detailed plan Malta
4.2 Detailed plan Gozo
4.3 Technical tools
4.4 Marketing
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32
35
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5. Conclusions and further work
6. References and addresses
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36
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1. Introduction
1.1 CYRONMED
This study has been supported by EU funds Interreg III B 2000-2006 ARCHIMED as a part of the
CY.RO.N.MED project, Cycle Route Network of Mediterranean. The CY.RO.N.MED is a EU funded
project for partners in Cyprus, Greece (2 regions), Italy (4 regions) and Malta. It aims to realize parts
of the EuroVelo routes in the eastern part of Mediterranean area, which means EuroVelo routes 5,7,8
and 11. Besides the project will develop Bicycle tourism locally and in the regions.
1.2 Malta – a part of EuroVelo 7
EuroVelo is the project, initiated by the European Cyclists Federation (ECF) in 1995, to develop 12
long-distance international cycle routes spanning all of Europe – both within and beyond the EU. It is
being developed by organisations representing most countries in Europe, coordinated through many
years by the ECF, De Frie Fugle (DK) and Sustrans (UK), but now managed by the ECF.
EuroVelo is already being implemented. The proposed routes, totalling 66,000 km, are based largely
on the cycle routes already existing or planned, at local, regional and national level, in the countries
through which they pass. EuroVelo is not simply about creating routes - it is about linking them into a
pan-European whole. This continental perspective has allowed the EuroVelo vision to support a
number of route creation projects since its launch.
The future for cycling has never been brighter. European and national policies, on global climate
change, local air quality, road safety, tourism development among others, all suggest the possibility of
promoting cycling. To do this, champions of cycling need to act to change the public agenda.
EuroVelo is certainly delivering the vision by coordinating the creation of a network of 66,000 km of
cycle routes through the whole of Europe. And more than that: a great part of the visions have already
been implemented. Especially in countries in eastern part of Europe like Poland, Baltic States, Czech
Republic, Slovakia and the southern countries like Spain, Italy and Cyprus many initiatives to built
cycle routes have been taken mainly due to the EuroVelo project.
EuroVelo has created a very strong brand image despite the limited resources available. This has
supported the creation of many sections of route in individual local projects. Examples include the
100 km Destra Po in northern Italy, the Silesia routes network in Poland, EuroVelo route 9 through the
eastern Weinviertel in Austria. EuroVelo Route 6 from Atlantic Ocean to Black Sea has been
implemented as an EU interreg project and a new signage system was developed within this project.
EuroVelo has also helped to harmonise standards across Europe, both by the production and
distribution of the EuroVelo Guidelines for Implementation and by direct assistance, such as to Estonia
and Slovenia in planning national cycle signage systems (based on the system used in Denmark and
the UK). EuroVelo News produced by Sustrans is circulated direct to 1,300 European, national and
regional politicians and officials, and thousands more are copies distributed by the national
representatives.
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EuroVelo Route 7 goes from Malta or ends in Malta, depending on which way you go. Therefore the
ferry connection from Italy (Sicily) is important. Coming from the cold north of Europe it must be a
nice finish with a roundtrip on the sunny Malta. So actually a roundtrip in Malta could be signed as a
European cycle route. The whole EV 7 from North Cape to Malta has been studied and the route report
is available at www.EuroVelo.org
1.3 Standards and definitions
The cycling infrastructure standards are those used for planning of cyclist facilities. These must be
usable by cyclists riding touring road bikes (racing bicycles may be unsuitable because of unmetalled
roads and MTB may be redundant) who are not particularly physically fit.
It should be possible for routes to be used by several categories of cyclists:
Cycle tourists or holiday cyclists using a bicycle to travel between a variety of different
accommodation types and often using long distance cycle routes.
Leisure cyclists or day trip cyclists are cyclists who use a bicycle for a trip lasting not more than one
day from the place where they are living/staying.
Everyday cyclists or commuter cyclists using a bike to go to work, school, the shops etc.
On certain stretches the long distance cycle routes may also be used by local cyclists and leisure
cyclists.
1.3.1 EuroVelo Standards
There are 5 guiding principles, which should be satisfied by all facilities for cyclists (route criteria):
SAFETY
A route, which reduces the dangers for cyclists to a minimum and makes people feel safe.
COHERENCE
A continuous route with identifiable EuroVelo characteristics, joining up with local roads and paths.
DIRECTNESS
A route that avoids unnecessary detours except to visit special beauty spots or sites of interest.
ATTRACTIVENESS
A route that complements and enhances its environment in such a way that makes cycling attractive.
COMFORT
A route that allows cycle traffic to flow comfortably and is easy to use.
1.3.2 Criteria for the general EuroVelo route selection
These criteria should assist in selection of the ideal EuroVelo route. A EuroVelo route should:
• run right across the European continent
• connect towns, pass through town centres and connect to important railway stations
• join together existing stretches of other cycle routes
• help to bring these existing routes up to the highest applicable standard
• have a clear theme, which will usually be geographic or cultural e.g. following a river or
coastline, a pilgrim route
• be able to stimulate physical activity, environmental awareness and international contact
throughout Europe
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•
•
•
•
help to fulfil the EuroVelo mission to link all European countries with at least one route
while being reasonably direct, pass through as many countries as possible
incorporate especially attractive cycling areas
avoid monotonous stretches wherever possible.
In line with the five guiding principles, EuroVelo routes should also:
• be consistent in terms of user safety
• have consistent surfacing and avoid frequent changes between materials
• plan for safety, speed and comfort standards acceptable for cyclists with fully laden cycles and
cycles of different types
• be adequately signed to guide visiting tourists
• have accommodation and refreshment facilities (shops, restaurants etc) available at regular
intervals. We propose max. 25 km between these facilities.
• have water supplied within max. 20 km. (fountains etc.)
• guarantee a memorable cycling experience wherever possible
• be accompanied by up to date and reliable information aimed at visitors from other countries,
as well as local users and including information on local laws and customs.
Finally the EuroVelo Guidelines propose some basic technical criteria for the routes:
• Shared on-road routes should normally carry less than 1,000 vehicles per day and only in
exceptional circumstances more than 3,000 vehicles per day
• Cycle lanes beside the highway should not be located alongside roads carrying more than
10,000 vehicles per day
• Sections of route defined as “traffic free” may carry up to 50 vehicles per day
• Traffic-free route sections should be wide enough for two cyclists to cycle side-by-side most of
the time, with a desired standard allowing two pairs of cyclists to meet and pass safely. Variable
widths are acceptable along a route
• Gradients of more than 6% should be avoided where possible, although on mountain sections
the maximum gradient may be 10% or greater
• Routes should generally be open all year and in all weathers, although in the far north or in
areas of high mountains this may not always be possible
• Alternatives should be considered for sections of route very heavily used by other types of nonmotorised traffic (walkers, horse riders etc.); the priority is to minimise conflicts.
1.3.3 Definitions to be used in CYRONMED
Before providing a classification of cycling infrastructure elements, some definitions will be useful:
Cycle route is a track or road between two points A and B, which has been planned, laid and signed
for cyclists.
Cycle route network is a coherent system of cycle routes in a defined area. A cycle route network can
be at a number of different scales from a continental scale downwards - e.g. EuroVelo (continental),
national, regional and local.
Cycle route corridor is a belt of land between 2 points to be followed by a future cycle route.
There are seven different types of provision which are made for cyclists and a cycle route may be
made up of one or more of each:
1 Cycle lane: Section of the carriageway reserved for cyclists. This can be indicated by proper signs, a
white line (yellow/orange/white in some cases) and the symbol of the bicycle painted on the roadway -
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or displayed on a signpost (referred also to as on-road cycle track or cycle shoulder) reserved for the
exclusive use of pedal cycles.
2 Cycle track: Track indicated by proper signs and the symbol of the bicycle painted on the track separated from road by kerb or grass verge (referred also to as segregated cycle track).
3 Independent Cycle track: a track indicated by proper signs and the symbol of the bicycle painted
on track, reserved for the use of cycles and totally independent from shared roadways (referred also to
as cycle track in its own right).
1. Cycle Lane Mallorca (Alcudia –Pollenca). 2. Cycle Track, Halfar Malta, 3. Cycle Track in separate layout. Lodi Italy.
4 Natural Cycle path: path crossing parks and/or protected areas, the countryside in general or
running along river banks. There are no specific construction standards and cycles may be admitted
even in places where surface is rough for cycling. Note that for cycling purposes, the intrinsic safety of
the cycling path must be guaranteed (referred also to as bike trail or single track).
5 No traffic roads: roads that carry less than 50 motor-vehicles/day.
6 Low traffic roads: roads that carry less than 500 motor-vehicles/day and no more than 50 motorvehicles/hour and not too much heavy traffic (lorries etc.).
7 Bicycle friendly road: non-urban shared road with some provisions and traffic calming facilities
with a speed limit of 30 km/h or less, to improve safety for cyclists.
4. Natural cycle path. 5. No traffic road. Verona Italy. 6. Low traffic road Popeye Village, Malta. 7. Bicycle friendly road..
Surface with at least three different levels of quality:
Sealed: (asphalt, concrete, self-blocking material)
Smooth: other good quality surfacing materials like fluent tarmac, soil stabilized with lime/resins
Natural bed: mediocre or low quality (grass, soil, river or cobblestones).
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Mantova cycle Track asphalt. Po river route poor gravel surface. Cobble stones surface - not so good.
Roadway: that part of the road used for the passage of traffic with the exclusion of shoulders, draining
channels, barriers, respect areas, etc.
Greenway: former transport route made available to users of non-motorised transport such as
pedestrians, cyclists, people with limited mobility, roller skaters, cross-country skiers, horse riders.
Traffic safety: all infrastructure and legislative provisions implemented to ensure traffic safety.
Installed safety features: all the permanent road features designed to improve road safety (barriers,
balustrades, repairs of steep or dangerous stretches of road, etc.).
Cycling sign: vertical or horizontal sign designed to provide cyclists with directions and to improve
safety.
Resting area: Service area equipped with bike racks, tables, benches, waste baskets and drinking
fountain.
Touring Bicycle: geared bicycle (MTB mountain bike included), suitable for carrying luggage and
with tyres of not less than 25-28 mm in width.
Cycling maps: Road maps (cycle-maps) at scales of between 1:50,000 and 1:100,000 (for mountain
bike routes or city centres a scale of 1:25,000 is acceptable).
Cycling maps can be of two types:
Itinerary Map: showing pre-determined cycling routes and supplying useful information of assistance
in finding the way.
General Map: showing information about the road network most suitable for cyclists, such as traffic
intensity, gradients and other information useful for a cyclist in deciding a route within the area
covered by the map.
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Example of map for cyclists from Denmark. The symbols used correspond with signs.
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2. Work methods and basic information
2.1 Work method and planning tools
The “Bicycle Tourism Temple Model” was developed as a method for Cycle Route planning while
working on national cycle routes in Cyprus. The model includes both the necessary technical details
and emphasises the need for sensitivity to natural and man-made scenery as well as the importance of
the availability of tourist facilities such as bicycle-friendly accommodation etc. Proper co-operation
between the route planning and tourism sectors is essential. The model provides an example of good
practice in the planning of cycle routes, focussing precisely on this need for co-operation:
Fig. The Bicycle Tourism Temple Model.
1. The basics (Country, Climate, Landscape)
2. Accommodation and other services
3. Cultural and natural sights
4. Infrastructure for cyclists including access and information
5. Tourist Product for Cyclists
6. Marketing
2.2 Survey about Malta
Malta covers 316 km2 and consists of two main Islands: Malta (246 km2), the main Island, and Gozo
(67 km2),”the countryside.” In addition, there is a small, almost uninhabited island named Comino (2,7
km2). The highest point, which is 283 meters above sea level, is the Ta´ Zuta Plateau in Dingli. Very
little area is covered with forest (1-2 %).
Malta is situated 100 km south of Sicily, 300 km east of Tunis and ca. 500 km north of Libya. With
400,000 inhabitants, Malta has the highest population density in Europe. Each year 1.2 million tourists
visit the islands. Malta has a good local kitchen, especially known for fish and rabbit and also for
having an Italian influence.
Malta is the most southern country of Europe. It is an independent island state whose capital is Valletta
and whose recently built international airport is situated in Gudja. Everybody speaks English but the
local language is Malti. Malta has seven World Heritage Sites, and Gozo has the world’s oldest
freestanding building, predating the pyramids of Egypt by a thousand years.
The hilly terrain in the northern part of Malta will challenge cyclists, but also offers views and
variation. The South is a flat plain ending in one of the most beautiful harbours in the world.
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Hilly landscape north part of Malta, village and town and finally landscape on Gozo.
2.2.1 Traffic culture
In general there are just too many cars in Malta. If the cars were placed in a straight line they would
stretch for over 1000 km, longer than the distance from Malta to Athens. Car ownership is much higher
than in other European countries, though distances are much shorter. There are 525 cars per 1000
inhabitants, whereas there are only 340 in Denmark. Only 0.3% of everyday trips are with bikes as the
means of transportation, as compared to Copenhagen, Denmark, where the rate is 33%.
Left side driving might be a problem for some tourists. Generally, Maltese car drivers are relatively
respectful of cyclists. Cycling is almost exclusively regarded as a sport in Malta, and most Maltese do
respect sportsmen.
However, everyday cyclists are so seldom seen on the streets that special campaigns will have to be
made when cycle routes, including shared roads, open. The police will probably need to be involved in
such campaigns. Malta Transport Authority (ADT) has produced a leaflet about the park and bike
system, which also aims to change the traffic culture. Another leaflet exists concerning safety for
cyclists.
More places where children can practise cycling are needed. Two places do exist near Pembroke and at
Ta´Qali. Besides areas to practice, bicycle education in schools is important. Later education for adults,
for example when they get their driver licence, should also be considered.
The warning signs concerning school children can illustrate how fast you have to move to get across the road. In Malta left
driving can give cycle tourist (from countries with right driving) some problems until they get accustomed.
2.2.2 Climate
The attractive climate and landscape of Malta indicate a good potential for implementing cycling and
especially cycle tourism, since the Islands’ main source of income is already tourism. In addition,
bicycle tourism is a sustainable way of travelling or being on holiday and a good way for tourists to
meet local people.
The cycling season is nearly year round, although it may be too hot in July and August. The average
winter temperature (November-April) is 14 oC, and the average summer temperature (May-October) is
32 oC. Average annual rainfall is 578 mm.
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Nice weather al year round gives a good basis for cycle tourism.
2.2.3 Developing cycling and cycle tourism
Bicycle Tourism should have a good basis in climate and landscape resources in Malta compared with
Denmark. And especially in wintertime, where people from Northern Europe like to go south, the
choice of Malta, with its excellent climate and hotel capacity is obvious. Malta is the European country
with the most hours of sun per year, and tourism is one of the main pillars of the economy.
So a plan for developing cycle tourism should be integrated into the future strategic plans for tourism
in Malta in order to benefit from the internationally-growing trend in bicycle tourism and in order to
promote an ecological contribution to future tourism in general and especially ensuring the sustainable
development of Malta´s countryside (Gozo and the western part of Malta).
There are a few tour operators today bringing in cyclists. Most popular are the big cruise ships, which
arrive with bicycles and take a day-trip around Malta. This can be a group of 400 cyclists going around
the island assisted by the police. In Gozo we met a couple, who had come with a tour operator from
UK: http://www.headwater.com/list/by-country/gozo/cycling.htm (see photos).
Cycle tourism does not destroy either the landscape or the “social fabric”, because tourists normally
come individually or in small groups spread throughout the year and follow existing transport
corridors. They do not pollute or make noise – not even at night because they get tired from cycling
and have to sleep!
However there can be an economical benefit for the local society due to the money cycle tourists insert
into the local economy from buying food, accommodation and some souvenirs. Cycle Tourism has
been growing steadily in Europe during the last 10 years. For example in Germany, 44.7 % of the
population (which is 21.72 million people) go on cycle holidays each year and they spend more than
1000€ per person per year. (ADFC Radreiseanalyse 2006). Cycle tourism can also be a way to extend
the tourist period.
Headwater tour operator send cyclists to Gozo. Cyclists in front of church in Marsaxlokk.
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2.2.4 Landscape planning
It is important to co-ordinate landscape conservation and planning for cyclists and ramblers, so that the
users get the best experience and enjoy the different landscapes without damaging anything. Cycle
routes should always follow existing lines (often paths or roads) through the landscape.
In the “Structure Plan for the Maltese Islands” concerning “Tourism and recreation”
(www.mepa.org.mt/planning) cycling is not mentioned much, but it is said that planning of more
recreational areas should be a priority and that a national park or rather a national recreation Center
could be established near Ta´ Qali. The structure plan is from 1992 and still used. However the 7 local
plans for landscape planning are more relevant to use – look at:
http://www.mepa.org.mt/Planning/index.htm?pln_fbk_str_pln.htm&1
Further, the Malta Environmental and Planning Authority (MEPA) also wishes to keep the coastal
areas free from new buildings, tents etc., which is also vital for a future development of cycle routes –
for example along the coast near Dingli Cliffs.
Finally it is proposed to create “Parkways” between tourist/recreation attractions and use these for
cycling and other environmentally friendly ways of transport and activities. Specific proposals:
Malta parkways
• Victoria and Dwejra Lines (west part of island)
• Ta´ Qali – Chadwick Lakes (river valley) through Mosta
• Western coastal cliffs Gebel Ciantar – Fomm Ir – Rih Bay (west part of island)
• Coastal area Salina Bay – Caghaq (North coast east of St. Pauls Bay)
• Waterfront park at Ricasoli seafront
• Grand Harbour – Marsa Park –Vicinity of Rabat
Gozo parkways:
1.Northwest coast Marsalforn – Dwejra Bay
2.Dwejra Bay (Qawra Tower) – Kercem/Santa Lucija
3.Mgarr east along coast to Wardija and west to Mgarr Ix-Xini and the valley Wied Hanzira.
Some of the walking routes are actually planned through these parkways.
2.3 Method of registration
In the technical manual special registration sheets are proposed in order to list cultural sights etc.
However in this study of Malta we list the element together since each stage is very short.
Gozo typical landscape at Il Ramla Valley.
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3. Results of registrations
3.1 Existing cycle routes and other facilities for cyclists
There are no cycle routes (see definition in 1.3.3) in Malta to day, but various cycle tracks and lanes:
Cycle tracks Length in m
Width in m
Tech. notes
purpose
connecting
and lanes
A. Mellieha
1250
1,1 – 1,3
Only on the
Mainly leisure Mellieha By-Pass
valley side
Wide view
Ghadira
B. Mgarr
Ca. 3000
Mgarr – Ta
Qali
C. Burmarrad 2000
1-1,3
Leisure trips
St. Pauls Bay Mosta - beach Burmarrad Mosta
D. Mdina
760
1-1,3
Both sides of
Incl. school
Zebbug - Rabat
Road, Zebbug
road
E. Coast Road 5200
0,9 – 2,0
Only one side. Combining
St. Julians –
Not well
tourists areas. St. Pauls Bay
maintained.
Popular for
Not continuous exercising
F. Marsascala 1000
1,6
A track 50 mm Mainly leisure Triq Qaliet –
above the road. Nice view
St. Thomas
Open mo-sa 8Bay Tower
19 due to need
for car parking.
Park and ride
G. Park and
Ca. 600
Too bad
To lower the
bike. Valletta
quality at the
amount of cars center St. Francis
Ravelin - Valetta
bus station.
in the city
H. Hal Far
Ca. 7000
0,5 – 1,3
Track also for
Luqa and
Road
pedestrians.
Birzebbuga
Only one way
along airport
for cyclists.
and road A1
Existing bicycle facilities. All these cycle lanes are rather short distances and they are not connected to each other. They
were all implemented within the last 2 years and will be a god basis for further implementation. A-H refers to map.
Map of existing cycle tracks and lanes in Malta.
An average costs per km including link signage: 70.000 LM = 163.000 € = 1,2 million DKK .
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Cycle lane various parts of Halfar lane.
Burmarrad x 2 and Mellieha By-Pass
Marsascala x 2 and Coastal Road and park and bike route at bus station.
3.1.1 Signs for cyclist
An official logo for cycling (white on blue background) and guidelines for the use of it as a route
already exist in Malta:
-for cyclists only (it also means that cars are not allowed to enter)
-shared with pedestrians
-shared with bus and taxi (and horses if relevant).
Blue signs are well known by cyclists as well as car drivers.
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Direction signs for pedestrians in Valletta, shared lane for bikes, buses and horse wagons. Warning sign
for cars, when entering a road with cycle lane.
In addition the symbol is used (black on white) with an arrow and the words “Cycle Lane/Track” to
warn car drivers when entering a road with cycling facilities (see photo).
Another version (white on blue), with the words “Cycle Lane look right,” has the same meaning, but is
to be used to warn pedestrians.
Finally, signs with “end of route” and “Cyclists dismount” (white on blue) can also be used.
No direction signs have been used or shown in the official guidelines as of yet, but British standards
could possibly be adopted. Direction signs explain where the route leads to and how many kilometres
away the cyclist is from the destination. Another useful set of information, which has not yet been
introduced, is to give the cycle routes/lanes numbers or names.
We propose a direction sign developed from the British standards with the cycle symbol you already
use. The EuroVelo logo could be added for the main route – or just shown on information boards. See
more in the technical manual.
In general the signing along main roads is of good quality, but in rural areas of Malta it is often very poor, though with
some exceptions.
3.2 Services for cyclists
3.2.1 Accommodation
Malta has many hotels, but no developed tradition for B&B and no backpacker hostels. There are two
Youth Hostels (one in Sliema and another in Buskett Gardens above Wied il-Luq valley) Since the
hotels are normally fully booked in summertime, a good thing about cycle tourism is that the main
season probably will be outside July and August.
Some interesting accommodations are available in Monasteries in Rabat and Mdina, as well as in other
rural areas. A book “Retreat Houses of Malta and Gozo” by Olive Alison gives an overview of 17
monasteries. The most interesting of this sort of accommodation is Mosta (Mount St. Joseph) and
Rabat (Diocescan Seminary and Dar Tat Talb, Lunzjata). Such accommodation is very developed in
Majorca and very popular among cycle tourists.
Monasteries in Mdina with accommodation and hotel in Valletta where cyclists from Australia arrive.
Proposal:
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Maybe accommodation at monasteries could be further developed in Malta. Some are already fully
equipped for receiving tourist groups, in particular for retreats. Though the number of beds will be
small, it could be a great marketing tool, because tourists like such romantic and exotic attractions.
Some of the monasteries also have extensive gardens.
Camping is not very developed in Malta. Only one camping ground exists (on Marfa Ridge facing
Gozo), and a few tent sites (Kennedy Grove, Buskett, Ta´Qali). If cyclists carry their own tent, and like
to use them, they are allowed to put up their tents in natural rural areas; normally, however tourists
prefer their trips to be more organized. According to the Malta Tourist Authority camping for a few
tents could be organized in the future at some sights like the Fort Rinella with access to water/toilet.
Proposal:
Investigate if there could be a possibility to open a network of tent sites. In Denmark there are more
than 850 tent sites especially for cyclists and ramblers – www.teltpladser.dk
If cycling in the future creates a need for more accommodation in the countryside, maybe some
schools could be used as temporary accommodation.
3.2.2 Restaurants, cafes, shops and tearooms
There are about 800 restaurants, mainly in the bigger cities and at tourist resorts. Every older village in
Malta has a tea room in its church square, what is locally called hanut tat-te or “kazin”. They serve tea,
coffee, wine, beer, pastizzi, Maltese bread with tomato paste among other things. Most popular are
Valletta, Sliema, St. Julains, Gzira, Ta´Xbiex, Qawra, Marsascala, Mdina, Rabat, Birzebbugia and
Marsaxlokk.
Restaurant at beach in Mellieha Bay, tearoom/kazin in Zurrieq and restaurant outside Bugibba with bike parking.
3.2.3 Bike repair shops and bicycle rentals
Bike repair shops are very important for individual cycle tourists, and fortunately there are several
spread over the islands.
Malta: Bugibba (x2), Mosta (x 2), Rabat, Zebbug, Qormi (x 2), Msida, Birzebbuga.
21 57 58 84 21 34 01 49 21 47 00 53 21 56 66 71 21 65 47 91 21 41 43 99 21 55 37 41.
Bugibba: Agius Tourist Service, agiuscarhire@waldonet.net.mt
Gozo: Victoria Garage (near bus terminal) victoriagarage@onvol.net Also bike rental and some shuttle
service in case cyclists need help.
Cycle repair and rental in Victoria, Gozo and Bugibba, Malta. Bicycle stalls in Gozo and Valletta, Malta..
18
Bicycle rental is obvious in tourist areas, but could also be relevant at transport centers, like the airport
and the Park and Ride/Bike centre in Valletta.
Malta Bookers (www.maltabookers.com/ratesbicycle.asp) delivers bikes to where you want to start
your trip and also offers to pick up the bike at your destination. Speaking with bike rental company
“Agius Tourist Service” in Bugibba, I understood that the volume of bike rental was not very big in
Malta. As one of the biggest, he had 40 bikes to rent. Many smaller rentals had stopped. You have to
have a special licence from the police to rent bicycles.
Proposal:
Bicycle Centres could have a flexible service for various groups from someone who just wants to
buy a map and get a bike repaired, to renting bikes + proposals for trips, to having a bus leaving
every morning going to various locations with cyclists + bikes and finally to provide guided trips for
groups.
3.2.4 Bike parking and park & bike
More than 100 bike stalls have been put up and currently stand as a good symbol for future cycling in
Malta. Until now very few are in use. Price per stall including installation: 70 LM = 163 €.
During 2007 the authorities have started some programmes, like road pricing in Valletta, park and ride
and even park and bike with 20 bikes including helmets.
Park and bike near center of Valletta and the last part of the cycle lane at the center of Valletta.
3.2.5 Other initiatives
ADT has produced a new “safer cycling brochure” in order to promote safe cycling. Besides a cycling
proficiency test (for school children) which took place at the end of September 2007, there is a Cycling
Rodeo in Pembroke and at Ta´ Qali, where children can learn cycling, and now also in Bormla.
Another one is planned to be at the Park and Ride Centre soon.
3.3 Historical and natural attractions
Malta has more cultural attractions within a short distance than other countries. It contains history
covering more than 7000 years. Malta also has excellent natural resources especially in relation to the
seaside.
The main cultural attractions are found near the capital Valletta, in “The 3 cities” (Vittoriosa, Senglea,
Cospicua), and in the southeast area (Paola, Tarxien, and the coast), where there are many temples, etc.
In the middle of the Island, Mdina is the main attraction with nice houses and streets and in Mosta you
find the incredible Rotunda Church (third largest dome in Europe).
19
There are 365 churches in total in Malta – one for each day of the year!
The 14 watch towers are a kind of identity for Malta and could be used as a sort of landmark for the
national cycle route. Many of these are at present being restored.
The main historical and cultural attractions according to Malta Tourism Authority are:
1. Roman Domus. Reconstructed house of romans. Rabat-Mdina.
2.
St. Paul or St. Agatha’s Catacombs Rabat
3. Museum of Natural History Mdina
4. Palazzo Falson Mdina
5. St. Paul’s Grotto and St. Paul’s Parish Church Rabat
6. St. Paul’s Cathedral Mdina
7. St. John’s Co Cathedral Valletta
8. Museum of Archaeology Valletta
9. Museum of fine Arts Valletta
10. Upper Barracca Gardens and Saluting Battery with the Noon Day Gun, Valletta
11. Casa Rocca Piccola Valletta
12. Manoel Theatre Valletta
13. Mediterranean Conference Centre Valletta
14. Maritime Museum Birgu
15. Malta Home Front Museum and Shelters Birgu
16. Inquisitors’ Palace Birgu
17. Fort Rinella
18. Limestone Heritage Siggiewi
19. Tarxien Temples, south of Valletta
20. Hal-Saflieni Hypogeum
21. Classic Car Museum Bugibba
22. Ghar Dalam Cave and Museum (South Coast)
23. Mosta Church
Ruin of temple south east of Malta, Blue Grotto and Limestone Museum.
The main attractions in Gozo: The Window, Calypso Cave, Citadel of Victoria, Ggantija Temple (the
oldest freestanding temple in the world), Ramla & San Blas Bay.
Malta: Mdina and Mosta. Gozo: Victoria and The Window.
20
The best area for cycling with attractive natural Surroundings and with few cars is the west coast and
the middle of the Island between Mgarr
and Qrendi.
Public Gardens: a book written by Joseph Borg (borgjos@di-ve.com) is a guide to interesting gardens
around the island. Most interesting are Buskett Gardens, San Anton, Mizieb Gardens (near Manikata),
Argotti Botanic Gardens in Floriana next to Valletta.
Upper Barrakka Gardens in Valletta and War Museum at Cospicua. and Harbour area Valletta.
Beaches:
Comino: Santa Marija Bay.
Gozo: Dahlet Qorrot, San Blas Bay, Ramla Bay, Marsalfora Bay, Qbajjar Bay, Xwejni Bay, Dwejra
Bay, Xlendi Bay.
Malta: St. Julian Bay, St. George Bay, Bugibba, Mistral Bay, Mellieha Bay, Armier Bay, Paradise Bay,
Golden Bay, Ghar Lapsi, Pretty Bay, Peters Pool, St. Thomas Bay, Marsaskala Bay.
Wineries and Vineyards can be found in various locations, including wines with international
recognition and awards.
For more information, see: www.visitmalta.com
3.4 Infrastructure relevant for cyclists
The Islands have no trains although Great Britain had a large influence here for 174 years. There was a
train between Valletta and Rabat, but it was closed in 1930 and there is nothing left from the
construction to be used for cycle paths. More information is available about the railway from the book
“The Malta Railway” by Joseph Bonnici & Michel Cassar, written in 1992, and at the restaurant in the
old railway building near Rabat, where there is a small exhibition.
Another form of public transport, which has been closed, is the funicular from the Harbour to the
upper town of Valletta. However this is going to be opened again in about 1-2 years including the
option to bring bikes.
The old funicular was bombed during the war and later pulled down, now it has been decided to be rebuilt in order to be
the fastest way to the city from the harbour, as the old sign says. Many big cruise liners come in here with tourists.
21
3.4.1 Buses and taxis
The public transport system is run with buses. This has functioned well for many years and you can
travel between all towns on Malta and Gozo. Each of the new buses can take up to 3 bicycles. Many
of the buses are very old and a tourist attraction in themselves. For more information, buy the book
“The Malta buses” by Joseph Bonnici & Michel Cassar, 1989.
Proposal:
It would be convenient if some buses could have a rack for bikes or space inside at a flex area (where
seats can flip up, giving space to secure bikes), for example on the routes between the Ferry terminal
in North (Cirkewwa) – the Capital – Airport.
Map of existing bus connections Malta.
Old busses and example of bus with rack for bikes behind (could also be in front). In new busses a place has been reserved
for wheelchairs. Unfortunately the space is too small to accommodate bikes.
When it comes to larger groups of cyclists, it would be appropriate if some of the private tourist busses
had a trailer to bring bikes, so that you could order such service.
It could be interesting and flexible for cyclists if they could also put bikes on taxis, but today they
can’t. In Denmark all taxis have a rack, so that they can takes 2 bikes.
Proposal:
This could gradually be introduced in Malta, so that each area had 5 taxis with this equipment.
Taxi in Gozo, ferry to Gozo and cyclists on his way out of ferry to cycle Gozo, and the traditional water taxi.
22
3.2.4 By air, ferries and tourist boats
There is one international airport where tourists, including cyclists, arrive. It is situated in Gudja southwest of Valletta. www.airmalta.com. Individual cyclists can board an Air Malta plane without paying
for the bike. It may not be the same with groups. They may have to split trips.
Proposal:
A service with rental of high quality bicycles from the airport would be fine. In addition more
information about taking bikes on planes could be a good idea.
The ferry from Sicily to Valletta connects Malta to the Continent using a catamaran; an accompanying
bicycle is free and there are special racks to secure parking of bikes. There are 2-3 crossings per day in
high season and it takes 1.5 hours from Pozallo and 3 hours from Catania. www.virtuferries.com
There are also some summer connections (catamaran) from Genoa and also connections to Tunis,
Africa. This service is operated by Grimaldi Group.
Between the Island Malta (Cirkewwa) and the Island Gozo (Mgarr) ferries operate every 45 min
during the day and there is even a night connection, which takes only 20 min. In addition, a cargo and
sight seeing ferry operates Monday, Tuesday and Thursday between Sa Maison (Sliema) and Mgarr
(Gozo). www.gozochannel.com. For harbour information, see Malta Maritime Authority:
www.mma.gov.mt
In addition, various boats are going to the small island of Comino, for example from St. Pauls Bay.
Finally in the Capital itself it would help a lot with small boats crossing the Harbour to avoid the traffic
bottleneck on shore. One ferry already connects Valletta and Sliema (it does take bikes).
The Maltese “dghajsa” has existed as water taxi for hundreds of years connecting Valletta and the
“Three Cities” – and is still in use. You can try to take your bike with one of them in order to make a
shortcut across the Grand Harbour.
Proposal:
There are small tourist boats sailing from harbors along the coast or at least to Comino. It should be
investigated if these could bring bikes and go into more harbors or be converted to bring bikes and
then play a role in the infrastructure - then you could “go on the water” when getting tired or where
the road along the coast has too many cars. The same should be possible for small distances in
Valletta and Sliema.
3.4.3 Minor Roads
There are some good places for cycling in the rural West and South of Malta, as well as on the
neighbouring Island of Gozo.
Country roads there are usually asphalted and without intensive traffic, but sometimes difficult to
negotiate due to the rubble stone walls on both sides.
23
Small roads south of Popeye Village and alternative transport by horse wagon in Mdina.
The roads can be divided into:
-Arterial Roads (road numbers < 10)
-Distributor Roads (road numbers 10-99)
-Secondary Roads (road numbers > 100)
Road numbers are seldom shown on signposts unfortunately.
Technical tools:
For the shared roads, which will be a part of the cycle route network, it should be investigated if signs
with 35 km/h could be put up systematically and possibly supplemented – at least for a period - by
warning signs to tell car drivers that these parts of the roads serve as cycle routes. This would need to
be done in liaison with local councils. See more general information in the technical manual.
Malta signs of to day Mallorca signs of to day shared road in France.
3.4.4 Rambling (walking) routes
Several booklets describe itineraries for walking. The outlined paths should be signed. Some follow
minor roads and could be relevant for cyclists.
Malta:
-Dwejra Lines Walk 10 km (Mgarr – Mosta following a parkway)
-Girgenti Walk 12,5 km (Buskett – Qrendi)
-Bahrija Walk 13 km (Circular route west of Rabat)
-Marfa Ridge Walk 11 km (around the peninsula most at north)
Gozo:
- Ta´ Gurdan Walk 12 km (circular route from village Gharb – west part of island)
-Ramla Walk 10 km (circular route from village Nadur – east part of island)
-Saltpan Walk 12 km (circular route from Victoria – the main town of the island)
- Dahlet Qorrot Walk 9 km (circular route from village Nadur – east part of island).
According to Malta Tourism Authority these rambling routes have become more and more popular and
1700 copies of the booklets have been sold.
24
4. The proposed cycle routes including maps
As overall criteria for a cycle route network of Malta we suggest:
• connect to EuroVelo network
• connect to places where tourist arrive to Malta (ferries and airport)
• connect main towns and tourists resorts
• pass by the main tourists sights
• safe and comfortable
• accommodation every 25 km
• food (shops/restaurants) every 20 km
• passing through nice landscapes
• in total give a good experience of the country.
As an overall network connected to the EuroVelo Route 7, we could imagine tourists coming in with
the ferry from Sicily to Grand Harbour, then around the Island of Malta counter clockwise (with left
driving it will make a shorter roundtrip than clockwise!) along the coast up to the ferry to Gozo, a
roundtrip at Gozo, then back to Malta and down the west coast and finally to the airport.
Cycle routes around Malta and Gozo can pass through most of the interesting places. Maybe the 14
watch towers could be used as landmarks, possibly as a logo for the routes? Some names for these two
national cycle routes have been proposed:
The Melita Cycle Route (Melita is an old name for Malta)
The Route of Knights
Malta Cliff Route
Salt Route
Logo proposal: The 8 pointed cross of the Knights
Gozo: The Calypso Cycle Route
Since the Islands are not so large, this main itinerary can properly pass most of the interesting places
and be the framework for local routes to form a future network of cycle routes.
Further more since distances are also not so long, these routes would integrate most of the interesting
places of the two islands. Then local routes or connecting tracks could be an important supplement to
the main infrastructure. In addition some MTB routes in certain areas could be connected.
This feasibility study will propose the future itineraries of the national routes in order to show that
such a project is possible to realize. Some examples of technical solutions and exact proposals for
location of the routes will be described, but detailed proposals for implementations belongs to future
projects.
25
4.1 Detailed plan Malta
Map showing existing cycle tracks/lanes and the plan for Malta National Cycle Route.102 km.
1 st. stage: Grand Harbour Valletta – St. George´s Bay 6 km (with ferry)
There is a ferry from Valletta (Marsamxett) to Sliema Front, and plans to extend it to Cottonera. This is
a valuable shortcut for cyclists. It would be good to have a car-free cycle track along the harbour front
from Grand Harbour around Valletta to the small ferry to Sliema. This can probably be co-ordinated
with other projects for the area. It should connect to where the ferry from Sicily comes in – the
passenger terminal at Magazine Bastion. In the long run, cycling should be made safe and comfortable
all the way along the sea front from Valletta up to St. Julians Bay.
Passengers
Terminal - Grand
Harbour Valletta –
St. Georg´s Bay
Passengers
Terminal - Grand
Harbour –
Marsamxett
Ferry to Sliema
Sliema – St. Georg
´s Bay
Road names/ road
number
Length in km
Surface
A Asphalt
G gravel
Attractions and
services
Implementation
Needed and
estimated costs
Triq Pinto
Triq Il Mediterran
Triq San Bastjan
Triq Marsamxett
2,5
A
A
A
A
Valletta
Track or lane along
all roads
# Alternative
Triq It Torri
3,5
A
Sliema
Track or lane along
Triq Il Kbira
A
all roads
Triq Gorg Borg
A
St. Julians
Olivier
A
Triq San Gorg
A
# Cycle tracks are also needed from Park & Ride Centre along Triq Il Principessa Melita and further along the waterfront as
alternative to ferry.
From the Passenger Terminal it should be made possible to cycle along the harbour and into Valletta. A plan for
reconstructing the former funicular should also include space for bringing bikes in order to get safe and easy to centre.
2 nd stage: St. George´s Bay – Madliena Fort - Bugibba 10 km
Take the local road Triq Il Mediterran to Pembroke, with a training site for cyclists, where children can
practise cycling free from cars. Then there is 200 m missing to get on a bad asphalt road and down
White Rocks Holiday Centre. Take the small path (steep gradient) down to the coast and along “Gypsy
Camp” to Ronnie Restaurant at Bahar ic-Caghaq. Back at the Coast Road there will be a need for a
cycle track north of the road.
26
If the Coastal Road is widened (EU funded project TEN-T 2007-13), building a 3 m wide cycle track
on the coast side of the road should be integrated into that project. Further along, a cycle lane does
exist, but improvements have to be done in order to get a 3 m wide lane or track with 2 directions for
cyclists. In addition, some rest areas should be planned. A new landscaping project at Pembroke, still
in the pipeline, includes cycling on its plans.
St. George´s Bay Bugibba
St. Georg´s Bay Pembroke
Road names
Road number
Triq Il Mediterrane
New road to
football ground
Pembroke –
Missing part ca.
Ronnie Restaurant 200 m
Triq Martin Luther
King
Path through
White Rocks and
road passing camp
Ronnie Restaurant Coast Road
– Salt Pans
1
Salt Pans –
Bugibba
Length km
1
3
Surface A Asphalt
G gravel
A
A
Attractions and
services
St. Georgs Tower
Implementation
needed
A
A
Pembroke Fort
New track
New asphalt layer
G
4
Path from Park at 2
Kennedy Grove to
local road.
Triq Il Qawra
Triq IT Tunciera
G/A
A
G
A
A
Partly new surface
Ghallis Tower
Salina & Lance
Hotels
Park with pine
trees at Kennedy
Memorial Grove
New construction
in concrete north
of road – only
parts exist
New path
Lane along road or
track on extended
pavement
Lane on road in
stead of parking
Between Pembroke and Bahar ic-Caghaq there is a good possibility to create a connection on existing minor roads and
paths closer to the sea than the Coastal road. And we proposed that the existing lane on the Coastal Road will stay and be
improved in order to have both possibilities and together a round trip possibility.
Triq Il Mediterrane
Missing link
Triq Martin Luther King
27
Down from White Rocks, path opposite White Rocks Holiday Centre and road to Bahar ic-Caghaq.
Coastal Road. with separate track, pavement with bad maintenance and narrow pavement, which have to be extended.
Coastal Road. Warning black spot. Narrow pavement at Kennedy Grove and broader promenade at Bugibba.
Along Saltpans down to Kennedy Grove, where a path could be implemented and local road used.
3rd stage: Bugibba – Mellieha Bay – harbour at Cirkewwa 12 km
The road nearest St. Pauls Bay should be investigated and maybe used (Triq San Frangisk etc.). Or a
new road just built should have cycle lane/track. From the bottom of St. Pauls´ Bay up to the hill
before Mellieha a cycle lane is needed and then an existing lane can be used to go down to Mellieha
Bay. A new lane is needed on the road further on and into the harbour area.
Bugibba - Harbour
at Cirkewwa
Bugibba – St.
Pauls Bay
St. Pauls Bay
-Mellieha Bay
Mellieha Bay Harbour at
Cirkewwa
Road names
Road number
Plajja Ta´Bognar
Triq San Frangisk
Triq San Pupulju
Soao Tax Xama´
Triq San Pawl
1
Length km
3,5
Surface A
Asphalth G gravel
A
5,5
A
1
3
A
28
Attractions and
Implementation
services
needed
Bike rentals and
repair in Bugibba
Hotels, shops etc.
St. Pauls´ Chapel
Wignacourt Tower
Tourist boat to
CominoHotels
Hotels, Wild
Track along road
Reserve, Red
Tower, Ferry Gozo
4th stage : Mellieha Bay – Mgarr 9 km
Local road to Popeye Village – Manikata (church) – road 117 Golden Bay – Roman Baths – Mgarr.
Mellieha Bay –
Mgarr
Mellieha Bay Popeye
Popeye - Manikata
Manikata – Roman
Baths
Roman Bath Mgarr
Road names
Road number
1, 115
Length km
Attractions and
services
Popeye Village
Implementation
needed
2
Surface A Asphalt
G gravel
A
117
117
3
2
A
A
Church
Roman Baths
Bad surface
117
2
A
Ta´Hagrat Temples
Road 117, road south of Popeye Village, Manikata Church, Popeye Village, Mellieha Holiday Center.
5th stage: Mgarr – Rabat/Mdina 9 km
A bit east against Gnejna Bay – L-iskorvit – Ghemieri Palace – Ghajin Qajjied – Roman DomusRabat – Mdina.
Mgarr – Rabat
Mgarr - L-iskorvit
L-iskorvit Ghemieri Palace
Ghemieri Palace Rabat
Road names
Road number
124
124
Length km
Attractions and
services
2,5
3
Surface A Asphalt
G gravel
A
A
124, 117
3,5
A
Rabat
Implementation
needed
Ghemieri Palace
6th stage: Rabat – Birzebbuga 32 km
Back east same way out and follow Wied il-Busbies (The Valley of Busbies) – Ta´ Baldu 189 m –
Misran Suffara – Dingli – Tal-Vecca – Madalena Chapel - Buskett Gardens/Girgentl Valley – Siggiewi
– Tal-Bajjada – Hagar Qim Prehistoric Temple - road 117 – Blue Grotto – Zurrieq – existing cycle
lane to Hal Far along road 1 (disused airfield). Existing lane to Kalafrana – Birzebbuga. You could also
choose to follow the lane north and go to airport terminal.
Rabat Birzebbuga
Rabat - Dingli
Dingli - Siggiewi
Road names
Road number
117, 126, 131
131
117, 132
Siggiewi – Zurrieq 117
Length km
Zurrieq
-Birzebbuga
117
1
7
7
Surface A Asphalt
G gravel
A
A
9
A
7
A
29
Attractions and
Implementation
services
needed
bar and shops
Magdalena Chapel Bad surface
Laferia Cross
Mnajdra Temples
Hagar Qim Templ.
Hotels etc.
Small old road down from Rabat, Road 131 near Dingli Cliffs, the cliffs
Between the Temples and Blue Grotto and Hal Far cycle lane.
7th stage: Birzebbuga - Marsaxlokk - Marsaskala - Valletta 24 km
Various sights north of Birzebbuga, road 144 + 138 – Marsaxlokk – St. Thomas Bay – St. Thomas
Tower – Marsaskala Bay on existing lane – Marsaskala. Minor road south west – Zabbar (museums) –
Santu Rokku – Kalkara Creek – Valletta.
Birzebbuga Valletta
Birzebbuga Marsaxlokk
Marsaxlokk Marsaskala
Marsaskala Valletta
Road names
Road number
144, 29, 138
Length km
4
Surface A Asphalt
G gravel
A
137, 134
6
A
134
14
A
Attractions and
services
Pretty Bay
St. Georgs Bay
St. Thomas Bay
Implementation
needed
Narrow path to be
renovated
Path for walkers to
be improved for
the use for cyclists.
Birzebbuga part of the road can be used as lane and part of the promenade too. Old path south of St. Thomas Bay.
30
Between Marsaxlokk and Marsaskala a very nice cycle route can be made by using existing roads. However south of St.
Thomas Bay a narrow public path has to be renovated in order to provide cycling. Route shown on map 1:25.000.
Marsaskala existing track eventually without parked cars and a broad road with space for a cycle lane.
Connection routes Malta:
Besides the national cycle route around the Island of Malta, I propose the following connections in
order to have a full network with many different and flexible possibilities and in order to connect the
main towns:
-Mdina – Zebbug (existing) – Qormi – Valletta 12 km
-Mdina – Ta´Qali – Burmarrad – Bugibba (partly existing) 9 km
-Mgarr – Mosta (partly existing) – Msida – Valletta 15 km
-Birzebbuga – Luqa – Qormi. (partly existing) 12 km.
Map cycle route plan for Malta National cycle Route and connecting regional routes.
31
4.2 Detailed plan Gozo:
Gozo is a small island about 5 x 10 km and the car traffic is not as heavy as on Malta. So it will be
possible to use existing minor roads as a basic for a national cycle route around the island. The
proposal is marked with red colour beneath, the length is 47 km. The surface of the roads has to be
improved in several places and the signing of the cycle route should be accompanied by a campaign
with information to car drivers about the cycle route. The name of the national cycle route could
maybe be “The Calypso Cycle Route”.
As a supplement some regional/local connection routes are proposed - marked as green below. Some
of these also use minor roads, but others follow bigger roads where a construction of cycle track is
needed. The proposal overlaps with local plans from MEPA.
Map Gozo 1.st stage, Mgarr with Gleneagles Bar and view of Il Ramla Valley.
1. Mgarr – Xaghra 11,5 km
Just outside Mgarr, with a nice view to Comino – Wardija – Qala – possibly an excursion down to
Barbaganni Rock (bad road surface) – Nadur (some overlap with rambling route Dahlet Qorrot Walk,
there is a road south of road 15 to be used) – Ir-Ramla with nice sandy beach and Roman Remains and
a restaurant. Maybe parts of the rambling route Ramla Walk can be used. A new track along the road
down to Ramla Bay is being built. Up Wied ir-Ramla to Xaghra (hotel, sights like Ggantija Temple).
Mgarr –Xaghra
1.1 Mgarr - Qala
1.2 Qala - Nadur
1.3 Nadur – Ir
Ramla
Road names
Road number
111
Small road
15
1.4 Ir Ramla Xaghra 104
Excursion Qala –
Barbaganni Rock
Length
2,5 km
1,5 km
4,0 km
Surface A Asphalt
G gravel
A
A
A
3,5 km
2x2 km
A
A
32
Attractions and
services
Implementation
needed
Ramla Valley
Biggest sandy
beach
Ggantiga Temple
Rocky Bay
New asphalt layer
2. Xaghra – Zebbug 9 km
Xaghra – Calypso´s Cave – Il-Pergla – Marsalforn (hotels) – Salt Pans (walking route Saltpan Walk
can be integrated) – Zebbug.
X aghra - Zebbug Road names
Road number
2.1 Xaghra –
Partly 104
Calypso´s Cave
2.2 – Marsalforn 103
Length
2.3 – Zebbug
103
2 km
Surface A Asphalt
G gravel
A
3 km
A
4,0
A
Attractions and
services
Implementation
needed
Calypso´s Cave
Hotels
Marsalforn Valley
3.Zebbug – Azure Window 7 km
Zebbug – Ghasri – Ghammar – Ta´ Pinu – Gharb – Santu Pietru – San Lawrenz – Azure Window.
Zebbug – Azure
Window
3.1 Zebbug –
Ghasri
3.2 Ghasri - Gharb
Road names
Road number
11
Length
100, 101
3.3 Gharb – Azure 1
Window
Attractions and
services
1,5 km
Surface A Asphalt
G gravel
A
3 km
A
2,5 km
A
Gordan
Lighthouse
Ta´ Pinu Church
Qawra Tower
Azure Window
Fungus Rock
Inland Sea
toilet, tourist shops
4.Azure Window – Victoria 7,5 km
33
Implementation
needed
Same way back to San Lawrenz – Il Wilga Crafts Village road 1 – small road south around Neolithic
Cave Dwellings – Santa Lucija - Kercem – Catacombs – Rabat/Victoria.
Azure Window Victoria
4.1 Azure Window
- Il Wilga
4.2 Il Wilga Kercem
4.3 Kercem Victoria
Road names
Road number
1
Length
2,5 km
Surface A Asphalt
G gravel
A
Attractions and
services
Crafts Village
106
3,5 km
A
11
1,5 km
A
Neolithic Cave
Dwellings
Gran Castello,
Citadel + Bicycle
shop and rental
Implementation
needed
5.Victoria – Mgarr 12 km
Victoria – Xlendi – Munxar – Sannat – Xewkija – south of Santa Silja Tower – Ghanjsielem Fort
Chambray – Mgarr.
Victoria - Mgarr
5.1 Victoria Xlendi
Road names
Road number
12
5.2Xlendi-Munxar 113
Munxar - Xewkija 113
Xewkija - Mgarr
112
Length
3 km
Surface A Asphalt
G gravel
A
2 km
2 km
5 km
A
A
A
Attractions and
services
Hotels
Xlendi Tower
Hotel
Xlendi Valley
Implementation
needed
Santa Cilja Tower
Fort Chambray
Hotels, shops
6.Excursion to Comino
Don´t need to bring bike. There are only few gravel roads and paths. Hotel open in summer season:
www.cominohotel.com tel. 00 356 21 52 98 21.
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Gozo: View outside Mgarr to Comino, main road with good asphalt surface and minor road with bad asphalt.
4.3Technical tools
Signing and maps
We propose a direction sign developed from the British standards with the bicycle symbol already used
in Malta. The EuroVelo logo could be added for the main route – or just shown on information boards.
Besides a logo for the national cycle route like the 8 pointed cross of the Knights could be integrated.
See more in the technical manual.
4.4 Marketing
The Malta cycling clubs already play an important role in helping many foreigners to come to cycle in
Malta. Among other activities, they organize the popular event of Tour De Malte. See addresses below.
The new cycle routes can easily be marketed through EuroVelo News and ECF network, when they are
in place.
Besides it will be a good idea to contact various tour operators like the Headwaters, Silver Holidays of
Greece, Backroads etc.
Cycling Malta portal on the Internet should be introduced as a part of www.visitmalta.com
A good signing of the cycle routes is good marketing in itself
Malta Tourism Authority has produced guide booklets for rambling routes. Similar guides could be
made for the cycle routes and an overview map would also be a good idea.
The Malta cycling clubs already play an important role in helping many foreigners to come to cycle in
Malta. Among other activities they organize the popular event of Tour De Malte. See addresses below.
Tourist Authorities have produced guide booklets for rambling routes. Similar guides could be made
for the cycle routes.
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5. Conclusions and further work
The mail proposal of this study is to implement two national cycle routes as round trips on the two
main Islands and a supplement of connecting routes. Besides a signage of these routes has been
proposed. But who will take the ownership of the future national cycle routes? Malta Transport
Authority (ADT) will probably have the best possibilities to do so, since ADT already build several
good cyclists facilities. However it is recommended to establish a permanent reference group with
members from the organisations mentioned in the next chapter – maybe as a national cycle route
council or something similar.
Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) should be responsible for the marketing initiatives and follow up what
has already been done with booklets and maps for people walking.
6. References and addresses
Ministry for Urban Development and Roads (MUDR)
Minister Jesmond Mugliett and Vincent Cassar, Permanent Secretary.
Principal Officer and Project Manager: Ivan-Carl Saliba, ivan-carl.saliba@gov.mt
Principal Officer and Project Coordinator Carla Farrugia: Carla.farrugia@gov.mt
Malta Transport Authority (ADT)
Cycling: Audrey Testaferrata DeNoto audrey.testaferrata-denoto@maltatransport.com
Public Transport: Manuel Gatt, tel. 9943 6363, e.gatt@maltatransport.com
MEPA
Lucien Stafrace Lucien.stafrace@mepa.org.mt
Malta Tourism Authority (MTA)
Pauline Dingli Pauline.dingli@visitmalta.com (Also: Alexandra Valletta and Sharon Camilleri)
Malta Cycling Federation tel. + 356 79471935. John Zammit and Cliff Micallef (+ 356 9942 0300).
www.letsgocycling.org info@letsgocycling.org cliff@dormax.com
Greens Cycling Club: www.teamgreens.com
Malta Mountain Bike Association: www.maltamountainbike.com
Qormi Cycling Club: Tel. 21494205 (Paul Attard)
Mosta Cycling Club: www.mostacyclingclub.com
BMX Association: www.letsgocycling.org
Environment Landscape Consortium (ELC). info@elcmalta.com
34U – tree for you…
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Malta Air
Noel Gravino noel.gravino@airmalta.com.mt
Malta Maritime Authority. 00 356 21 25 03 60.
Mellieha Holiday Centre, Folkeferie.dk: Destination Manager Marianne Stellini, dff@mhc.com.mt.
00 356 99 43 99 89.
Malta tourism info: www.visitmalta.com
ECF and EuroVelo: www.ecf.com www.EuroVelo.com
De Frie Fugle, Denmark: www.friefugle.dk 00 45 33 11 11 75.
Books and reports etc:
The Malta Buses. Joseph Bonnici & Michel Cassar. 1992.
The Malta Railway. Joseph Bonnici & Michel Cassar. 1989.
The Public Gardens and Groves of the Maltese Islands. A Visitors Guidebook. Joseph Borg. 2005.
Island Retreats. A guide to retreat houses in Malta and Gozo by Olive Allison. 2003.
Hotels Directory. Malta Tourism Authority. 2007.
Malta & Gozo from the Air. DVD. 2007. www.maltavideo.com
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