PÉNINSULE DE MARFA

In this place, wilder and more relaxing than the rest of the north coast, you can, like the Maltese, find a secluded picnic spot between low walls, cacti and abundant low vegetation.

Dahlet ix-Xilep is the northernmost point of Marfa, and the straight road leads directly to it. It offers a fine view of the entire north coast, from Mellieha to the Hilton Tower in St Julian's. The wind sometimes blows very hard. A chapel and a small white statue of the Madonna soften the wild aspect of the place.

At Ahrax Point, the White Tower keeps watch. It's one of the Redin towers built along the north coast on the model of the Wignacourt tower in St Paul's Bay.

Between Ahrax and Cirkewwa are a succession of sandy beaches, much loved by the Maltese but little known to tourists. Maltese families come here for picnics. Some have their own boats or cabins, more or less well equipped. They almost form a small village around Armier Bay, gaining ground on the hillside and the pretty mosaic of walled terraced cultivations.

A little further back towards Cirkewwa is Little Armier. This is a busier place. Here you'll find snack bars with lido on the water's edge. Each brightens up the site with its colorful umbrellas. The beach here is half sand, half rock, the water is crystal-clear and the view over Gozo unobstructed. Volleyball and water sports are available on site, as well as loungers on fine sand under imported palm trees. These beaches are very popular at weekends.