MALTA HIKING TALES (PART FIVE) GHAJN TUFFIEFA AND QUARABBA BAY

Hello dear readers and fellow bloggers! I'm back with another Malta themed post. Recently I posted a painting inspired by Malta. As some of you might remember, I visited Malta a few years ago, but I only blogged about it last April, when I published a series of post on Malta. My series about Malta isn't finished, though. In fact, today we're going to continue it. Considering my stay on Malta was two weeks long, it deserves more than a couple of posts. There is a lot to see and do on Malta. It's a small island, but one that's filled with so much life and beauty. Although Malta faces some problems caused by fast tourism, it remains an unique and magical island.

 In this post, I'll take you to the bays I visited while hiking on Malta. One of them (Ghajn Tuffieha Bay) is the one I painted. You can visit that post by clicking on the link below:

TRAVEL WITH MY ART #43, GHAJN TUFFIEHA BAY, MALTA

LET'S START WITH THE GOLDEN BAY

We actually didn't go all the way down to the Golden bay, rather we observed it from the hills, but it's clearly a popular place to visit. I was there in March, so it wasn't touristy. Had I visited during the Summer months, this beach would be filled with people. It is said that the Golden Bay is one of the most popular beaches on Malta, if not the most popular one. 

As long as the beach is concerned, it's easy to see why. It's long and beautiful sandy beach, so no wonder it is so popular with visitors. The sea is clear and clean, making swimming an attractive option. I visited during Winter, but still the sea was very tempting! I resisted the temptation of going for a swim because it was a cold and windy day, but the sea was certainly very inviting. Look at those blue hues.

The bay is filled with hotels and restorants. It's definitely a very touristy bays. If touristy places aren't your cup of tea, that's alright. Keep reading, because I have other less touristy bays to show to you. You're also welcome to visit my other posts about Malta, some of which feature places that are not as touristy!

LET'S VISIT THE APPLE'S EYE BAY!

THE APPLE'S EYE BAY CONSISTS OF THE AREA OF RIVIERA AND THE MORE POPULAR GOLDEN BAY

You can see the Golden Bay behind me! I'll also share some information about it cited from 

https://map.navigatormap.org/site-detail?site_id=14689

Ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa or the Golden bay is a protected beach under The National Marine Protected Areas. 

What does this means and why it is so? Well, from what I found online, the main reason why this beach is protected is due to protection of sea turtles. 

Purpose

To protect the site, which the Environment and Resources Authority has determined is of ecological and scientific importance and is in need of conservation.

Species of Concern: loggerhead sea turtle!

REGULATIONS Summary- WHAT NOT TO DO AT THE GOLDEN BAY!

Restrictions

No vessel is allowed within Ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa Bay, unless authorised by the Malta Environment and Resources Authority (Authority). In addition, no person shall, within the emergency conservation area, unless authorised by the Authority:
-take or attempt to take, disturb, damage or destroy any adult marine turtle, eggs or any turtle hatchlings, whether dead or alive;
-enter or attempt to enter, or in any way assist any other person to enter the area cordoned-off by the Malta Police Force;
-place or attempt to place any object that, at any time between sunrise and sunset, may cast a shadow inside the area cordoned-off by the Malta Police Force;
-remove any Mediterranean tapeweed from the seaward side in front of the area cordoned-off by the Malta Police Force;

- deploy any gill net, trammel net or fishing net of any sort;
-deploy at the sea surface any ropes or other items that can effectively block the passage of juvenile turtles at sea surface;
- participate in any organised activity involving a group of more than 15 persons;
-participate in any leisure activity at a distance of less than 10 meters from the area cordoned off by the Malta Police Force;
- install or place any object, or attempt to install or place any object, within a distance of 10 meters from the area cordoned-off by the Malta Police Force that in any way may reasonably hinder or has the potential to reasonably hinder the safe passage of juvenile turtles to the sea;
-deploy any object or installation at sea within the emergency conservation area, or attempt to deploy any object or installation, that in any way may reasonably hinder or has the potential to reasonably hinder the safe passage of juvenile turtles towards the open sea;
- generate any excessive noise or vibrations;
-generate light unless screened in such a way as not to be directly visible from the area cordoned-off by the Police or covered with a red coloured filter, and in both these cases only within the areas designated as per site plan under Schedule II of the Emergency Conservation Order (except in the case of navigational lights of seagoing vessels);
-dig any holes in the sand; or
- utilize or be in possession of any sort of lighting device for fishing purposes or the capturing of any fauna.

LET'S KEEP THE SEA TURTLES SAFE BY ADHERING TO THESE PROTECTION RULES!

CITED FROM PRESS: https://ohmymalta.com.mt/2024/08/19/maltas-golden-bay-shines-with-record-turtle-hatchings/#google_vignette

If you’re visiting Malta this summer, you may be in for a truly extraordinary experience: witnessing the hatching of sea turtles on the island’s stunning Golden Bay. This season has been nothing short of record-breaking, with the first nest discovered back in June now producing 44 tiny hatchlings that have successfully made their way to the sea. 

A Season of Hope for Malta’s Turtles

On 15  June, a turtle nest was found on the sands of Golden Bay, one of Malta’s most popular beaches. Over the past few days, this nest has come to life, with a total of 44 hatchlings emerging and making their brave journey to the Mediterranean Sea. This event marks the first hatching of the season, with seven more nests expected to follow in the coming weeks.

Darrin Stevens, Director for Environment & Resources at the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA), stressed the importance of this event. “This hatching serves as an essential reminder of the important role played by dedicated NTM (Nature Trust Malta) volunteers and ERA officials in their conservation efforts,” he said. The collaborative work between these organisations is crucial in protecting these endangered species and ensuring that future generations can enjoy such spectacular sights.

How You Can Help Protect Malta’s Turtles

If you find yourself on the beach during a hatching event, there are a few important guidelines to follow. These small actions can make a big difference:

1. Keep it Dark and Quiet: Hatchlings are guided by the light of the moon to find their way to the sea. Artificial lights can disorient them, leading them away from the water. Avoid using torches, camera flashes, or any bright lights during the hatching process. Similarly, keeping noise levels to a minimum will help ensure the hatchlings’ safe passage to the ocean.
2. Respect the Nests: It is vital to give the nesting areas plenty of space. Do not disturb the nests or the hatchlings. The ERA has placed clear markers and signage around the nests, so please stay behind these barriers.
3. Report Sightings: If you witness hatching or come across a turtle nest, inform local authorities or Nature Trust Malta immediately. They are equipped to handle these delicate situations and ensure the safety of the turtles.

Join the Conservation Efforts

Malta’s turtle population relies heavily on the efforts of volunteers and organisations like Nature Trust Malta. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there are ways to get involved and support these conservation efforts. Consider donating to or volunteering with local wildlife entities during your stay.

A Unique Opportunity

Golden Bay is a picturesque spot for sunbathing and swimming and a significant site for marine conservation. Witnessing a turtle hatching is a rare and moving experience that few are fortunate enough to experience in their lifetime. By respecting the guidelines and supporting conservation efforts, you can help ensure that Malta remains a safe haven for these incredible creatures.

As you enjoy the stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters of Malta, remember that you share this paradise with some of the sea’s most vulnerable inhabitants. Your respect and care can contribute to the preservation of Malta’s natural heritage for many generations to come.

Keep an eye on the local news and social media updates from ERA and Nature Trust Malta for the latest information on the upcoming hatchings. With a little luck, your trip to Malta could include an unforgettable encounter with these remarkable sea turtles.

More information can be found here. 

Cited from which beach com (a site that gives information about Malta and Gozo beaches): 

The area of Għajn Tuffieħa (literally translated to Apple’s Eye) consists of the area of Riviera and the more popular Golden Bay. Both are equally stunning although Riviera tends to be a little less populated. This beach is nestled below the hills in an area that is still unspoilt with development. Getting to the beach means you need to go down a significant flight of steps but it will be worth your while.

Like Golden Bay, Riviera is listed as one of the best sunsets spots on the island. Facilities are lacking, mostly because the beach is more secluded, but you can get a snack from a kiosk just before you start your way down the steps. A restaurant is also open on the right side of the beach.

MY PAINTING OF ISLAND HVAR- MALTA'S BEAUTIFUL BEACHES REMINDED ME OF CROATIA

All of the bays I'll share today are withing the walking distance one from another, but if you want to know their exact location, you can find it on Google Maps. 

BETWEEN THE GOLDEN BAY AND THE RIVERA, THERE IS A TOWER YOU CAN SEE. We visited it, and I do recommend it as the views are stunning.

NEXT BAY IS THE GJAN TUFFIEFA BAY!

This bay is also known for as the Riviera. The Riviera beach is a gorgeous beach that is very popular with surfers. 

THE 'FALL IN LOVE WITH MALTA SWING' IS PERFECT FOR PICTURE TAKING

Here you can swing in style. Check out this swing with the 'fall in love with Malta' inscription. 

WHEN WE VISITED, THERE WAS HARDLY ANYONE, BUT WE MANAGED TO HAVE A CUP OF COFFEE IN A LOCAL CAFE!

In this bay we stopped and had some coffee in a local restaurant. If I remember well, the coffee was excellent. 

LET'S NOW MOVE TO EXOLORING QUARABBA BAY!

QUARABBA BAY 

QUARABBA BAY IS ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL! BESIDES OFFERING WONDERFUL HIKING TRAILS, IT MESMERIZES WITH ITS VIEWS!

As you can see, the sand beach looks really interesting and exotic. If you climb all the way up, you'll be rewarded with wonderful views. Some parts of this bay are a bit steep, so you'll want to be careful while hiking, but it's not exactly dangerous. I think that you'll be safe hiking here. If you feel worried about crossing some steep part, you can always hold on to someone for balance or just take your time. 

As for the beach itself, it's not hard to reach and it's lovely. 

AREN'T THESE VIEWS SIMPLY AMAZING? 

SPENDING TIME ON THIS BEACH WAS VERY RELAXING!

DURING THIS HIKE, I WAS INSPIRED TO PAINT THIS SEA! 

If you love seascapes, Malta is definitely a great place to take photographs. As you know, I often paint the sea. 

THE LAST DESTINATION IS A SMALL CHARMING FISHING VILLAGE

There was not a soul in sight when we visited!

ALL MY POSTS ABOUT MALTA 

Do you want to read about my previous visits to Malta? 

1) VISIT MALTA WITH IVANA- HIKING TALES- THE CLIFFS 

 I was both surprised and delighted to see and hike these stunning Maltese cliffs. It's something I would expect to find in Northern countries and not on a Mediterranean island.  

2) VISIT MALTA WITH IVANA- HIKING TALES- SOLO HIKES

I spent a lot of my time on Malta just hiking! No wonder I loved my stay there so much.  How lucky was I! Not only did I get to visit this utterly gorgeous island, I also got to hike it for hours. Moreover, during my hikes, I felt like I was able to connect with Malta on a deeper level by exploring it with calm and patience.

 As I said, I visited a friend on Malta, so I stayed with her. At that time, she was renting a rather lovely home from an old granny.  It wasn't a touristy place, and it was about thirty minutes bus drive from Valetta. While she was at work, I would typically hike around. Every day I hiked a bit further apart. It was great fun getting to know Malta better this way. 

Hiking and exploring Malta by myself, I felt transported back to the happy days of my childhood (much of which were also spent on an island). I guess that the island beauty of Malta reminded me of Hvar in many ways. Naturally, Malta is very unique in some ways. I already wrote about its cliffs and unique wildlife in my last post. Besides all that, Malta has had a fascinating history and this is something you can observe on the island whether you go. However, more about that some other time. In this post, I will focus more on Malta's nature. It was really a joy exploring Malta slowly and without haste. 

3) VISIT MALTA WITH IVANA- HIKING TALES- VALLETTA

Valletta, a city of incredibly rich history. Besides it being the capital of Malta, Valletta is one of the most concentrated historical sites in the world. Simply a dream place for a historical lover like myself. Apart from being a historical landmark like no other, Valletta is simply amazingly beautiful. 

4) VISIT MALTA WITH IVANA- HIKING TALES- SAINT JULIAN'S 

In this post, I took you to Saint Julian's on Malta. I enjoyed visiting this small touristy town. Saint Julian is perhaps best described as a mix of traditional and new. The contrast is quite dramatic, you can literally see ancient ruins next to high skyscrapers. As you stroll Saint Julian's, you might even feel like you've wondered upon a construction site, as new skyscrapers seem to be rising continuously. Still, despite all of continuous construction and urban development, Saint Julian's has kept some of its old charm and remains a popular tourist site. Located only about ten kilometers north from Valletta, St. Julian's is a great place to visit. Here you'll see old traditional fishing boats located next to restaurants and night clubs. 

We did a lot of walking that day, and celebrated finishing our trek by buying and eating local strawberries.  All in all, it was a lovely day!

Thank you for reading and visiting!