Read on to learn more about the Blue Grotto in Malta.
Overview:
- What is the Blue Grotto (Malta)?
- When should I go to the Blue Grotto?
- How do I get to the Blue Grotto?
What is the Blue Grotto (Malta)?
Tucked away on the southern coast of Malta, the Blue Grotto is the name given to a series of sea caverns that form a breathtaking part of the Maltese coastline. Given the name in the mid 1950’s by a British soldier, the Blue Grotto complex features seven sea caves in total, including the mesmerising Blue Grotto itself and its impressive arch, rising over 30 metres in the air.
The only way to get to the Blue Grotto is out on the water – either by boat or kayak, and boat tours depart from the nearby seaside hamlet of Wied Iz Zurrieq.
Image credit: Viktor Bystrov/Unsplash
Why is the Blue Grotto famous?
Image credit: Anastasiia Piastolova/Unsplash
The Blue Grotto Malta is famous simply for the incredible natural scenic beauty of the area. The azure water is crystal clear and when you visit at the right time (usually morning time is best, due to the position of the sun on the water) the sunlight reflects off the white sandy seafloor, illuminating the grotto in dazzling shades of blue.
If that isn’t enough to overwhelm your senses, throw in the lovely whites and deep oranges of the surrounding limestone cliff face, and you get a picture perfect scene that has to be seen to be believed!
Blue Grotto Malta Viewpoint
Sitting in prime viewing position on the cliff top above, the Blue Grotto Viewpoint is located on the main road, close to the turn-off for the village of Wied Iz Zurrieq. Here, visitors have a clear uninterrupted view of the Blue Grotto’s striking arch and sea cave below, as well as the deep endless blue of the surrounding sea and nearby Filfla Island, a protected bird sanctuary.
Swimming and diving
Technically, it is possible to swim and dive inside the Blue Grotto Malta sea caves, but it’s generally not recommended due to the amount of tourist boats visiting the area. The tourist boat trips themselves usually take about 30 minutes and do not allow any time for swimming. Therefore, swimming and diving would only be possible if you were on a private boat or kayak.
If diving is your thing, you’re in luck as there are several dive sites in the area. Some of the most well-known include: the sunken Libyran ship, Um El Faroud; the West and East reefs and their respective caves; and the interesting Bay of Ghar Lapsi.
Image credit: Jose A/Flickr
Can you swim in the Blue Grotto Malta?
Yes, it is possible to swim in the Blue Grotto, but definitely only recommended outside the busy tourist times of the day, and only accessible by private boat or kayak. It would also be a much more pleasant experience if you plan your swim during the warmer summer months of June through to August!
When should I go to the Blue Grotto?
The Blue Grotto sea caves are open year-round, and boat tours from Wied Iz Zurrieq run all year. Having said that, the beauty of the sea caves is best seen on a sunny day, especially during the morning because of the position of the sun. This time of day will offer up the best photo opportunities.
The warmer months will generally provide the best chance for a sunny day, and it is also a lovely, relaxing experience being out on the water when it is warm, compared to the cooler months.
How do I get to the Blue Grotto?
The Blue Grotto Malta is only accessible by boat so unless you have a private boat, or sea kayak, doing a boat tour that departs from Wied Iz Zurrieq is the best option. Boat tours departing from here are a truly fantastic way to experience the Blue Grotto, as they are skippered by knowledgeable local fishermen, trained in navigating through the sea caverns in traditional Maltese wooden boats, all of which adds to the adventure!
At the time of writing, a local boat tour to the Blue Grotto will cost approximately $15 per person. To visit the Blue Grotto sea caves, you’ll need to make your way to Wied Iz Zurrieq and get on a boat tour from there.
Image credit: Jana Doro/Unsplash
Public Transport
It is possible to get to Wied Iz Zurrieq and the Blue Grotto by public bus. This is the cheapest way but it will also take the longest. To get there, take bus route 74 from Valletta.
Rent a car
Renting a car is probably the easiest way to get around Malta. Driving on the island is fairly easy and ensures that you can visit sites and attractions at the time that suits you for as long as you wish. Parking in Wied Iz Zurrieq is either free or inexpensive and well signposted.
A group tour
If you are staying in Valletta, another excellent way of visiting the Blue Grotto is on a day tour of the island. There are many day tours available and they can be booked while there.
If you’re looking for something longer and departing from Australia, join Bunnik Tours on our small group tour of Southern Italy, Sicily and Malta. You’ll spend 22 days travelling from Rome down to the gorgeous south of Italy, Sicily and Malta. Experience the best of Sorrento, the Isle of Capri, the Amalfi Coast, Palermo and Gozo (including the divine Blue Grotto) in Malta on this incredible small group tour.
Bunnik Tours includes airfares from Australia, all taxes and tipping, transport, accommodation, all entrance fees and many meals. Sit back, relax and let Bunnik Tours take care of everything!
From $12,495pp.
Image credit: Sergio Garcia/Unsplash
Image credit: Kyrylo Balakleiets/Unsplash
See the Blue Grotto in Malta yourself
Feeling inspired to visit the Blue Grotto in Malta? This impressive system of sea caves on Malta’s southern coast are sure to amaze and wow you. Join Bunnik Tours on our 22 day small group tour of Southern Italy, Sicily and Malta and see the Blue Grotto Malta for yourself (and don’t forget your camera!).
