Running Clubs & Best Routes in Malta: A Digital Nomad's Guide

Malta may be small, but it offers surprising variety for runners. From scenic coastal promenades to challenging hill climbs and historic city routes, there's terrain for every type of runner. Plus, the running community is welcoming and active year-round. Here's everything you need to know about running in Malta.

Best Running Routes in Malta

🌊 Sliema to St. Julian's Promenade

The most popular running route for expats and digital nomads. This flat, seaside promenade is perfect for easy runs and offers stunning Mediterranean views.

• Distance: 3-6 km (one way, depending on start/end points)
• Terrain: Flat paved path
• Difficulty: Easy
• Best time: Early morning or sunset
• Highlights: Sea views, cafes for post-run coffee, swimming spots
• Crowded: Popular with walkers, especially evenings

Route tip: Start at Tigné Point in Sliema and run north along the water to Spinola Bay in St. Julian's. Return the same way for a 6km out-and-back.

🏛️ Valletta Waterfront & Three Cities Loop

A historical route that takes you around the Grand Harbour, with views of fortifications, traditional boats, and the iconic Valletta skyline.

• Distance: 8-12 km (full loop)
• Terrain: Paved, some cobblestones, hills
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Best time: Early morning (before tourists)
• Highlights: Historic architecture, harbor views

🌿 Ta' Qali National Park

Malta's only proper park, offering car-free running paths. Great for intervals or tempo runs.

• Distance: 1.5 km loop, extend as needed
• Terrain: Flat, mix of paved and gravel
• Difficulty: Easy
• Facilities: Free parking, toilets, water fountains
• Bonus: Adjacent to the National Stadium and crafts village

🏔️ Dingli Cliffs

For runners seeking dramatic scenery and more challenging terrain. The cliffs are Malta's highest point at 253m.

• Distance: 5-10 km (depending on route)
• Terrain: Dirt paths, rocky in places, hilly
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Best time: Morning or late afternoon
• Highlights: Stunning cliff views, countryside
• Caution: Stay back from cliff edges, can be windy

🏖️ Mellieħa Bay Beach Run

Malta's longest sandy beach offers a great surface for beach running.

• Distance: 800m beach stretch
• Terrain: Sand (soft to firm depending on tide)
• Difficulty: Moderate (sand running is tough!)
• Best time: Early morning, off-season

🏝️ Gozo Countryside

The sister island offers quieter, more rural running with rolling hills and agricultural landscapes.

• Popular routes: Victoria to Dwejra, Ramla Bay area, Xlendi to Sannat
• Terrain: Mixed – roads, dirt tracks, hills
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Note: Less traffic, more peaceful

Running Clubs in Malta

🏃‍♂️ Evolve Endurance

Malta's premier running and triathlon club, welcoming runners of all levels. They organize regular group runs and training sessions.

• Group runs: Tuesday evenings, Saturday mornings
• Membership: €50/year
• Location: Various meeting points (Sliema, Ta' Qali)
• Includes: Coached sessions, social events, race discounts
• Contact: Via Facebook group or website

🏃‍♀️ Mellieħa Athletics Club

A family-friendly club based in the north of Malta, organizing training and events.

• Focus: Athletics, road running
• Membership: €40/year
• Good for: Runners in the northern area

🏃 Żurrieq Wolves AC

An athletics club in the south, active in local races and community events.

• Training: Track and road sessions
• Location: Żurrieq area
• Membership: €35/year

🏃‍♂️ Informal Running Groups

Several informal groups organize runs via social media:

• "Running in Malta" Facebook group: 2,000+ members, regular meetups
• Strava clubs: Search "Malta" on Strava to find local clubs
• Expat groups: Many organize casual weekend runs

Parkrun Malta

Parkrun has established itself in Malta with two free weekly 5K events. These are perfect for meeting fellow runners and tracking your progress.

📍 Ta' Qali Parkrun

• Location: Ta' Qali National Park
• When: Every Saturday, 8:00 AM
• Course: 3 laps of the park, flat
• Typical attendance: 100-200 runners
• Registration: Free (register at parkrun.com)
• Post-run: Coffee at nearby cafes

📍 Sliema Parkrun

• Location: Sliema Promenade (Tigné Point start)
• When: Every Saturday, 7:30 AM
• Course: Out and back along the seafront
• Typical attendance: 80-150 runners
• Note: Earlier start time due to heat/crowds

First time? Just register on parkrun.com (free, one-time registration works worldwide), print your barcode, and show up. Volunteers scan your barcode at the finish.

Races & Events

🏆 Malta Marathon Weekend (February)

The biggest running event in Malta, featuring full marathon, half marathon, and fun run options.

• When: Last Sunday of February
• Marathon entry: €60-80
• Half marathon: €45-60
• Route: Starts in Mdina, finishes in Sliema
• Certification: AIMS certified, qualifies for Boston

🏆 Night Half Marathon (October)

A unique evening race through Valletta's historic streets.

• When: October
• Distance: Half marathon
• Entry: €50
• Atmosphere: Festival-like, great crowd support

🏆 Gozo Half Marathon (November)

A scenic race around Malta's sister island.

• When: November
• Distance: Half marathon, 10K options
• Entry: €40-50
• Includes: Ferry transport from Malta

🏆 Other Events

• President's Fun Run (November): 4km charity run, Valletta
• Mdina Cathedral 10K (May): Historic route
• Christmas Run (December): Festive fun run
• Corporate Running League: Company teams competing monthly

Running Tips for Malta

☀️ Dealing with the Heat

Malta's summer heat (June-September) requires adjustment:

• Run early: Start before 7 AM in summer
• Or run late: After 7 PM when the sun drops
• Hydrate: Carry water or know where fountains are
• Sun protection: Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
• Slow down: Accept slower paces in heat

🚗 Dealing with Traffic

Malta has heavy traffic and narrow roads:

• Stick to promenades and parks where possible
• Run against traffic on roads without sidewalks
• Wear bright/reflective clothing
• Use Strava or maps to find car-free routes
• Early mornings have less traffic

🏔️ Terrain Challenges

• Hills: Malta is hillier than it looks – embrace it!
• Uneven surfaces: Watch for loose paving stones
• No shade: Most routes are exposed – plan accordingly
• Stray dogs: Rare but occasionally present in rural areas

Gear & Essentials

Where to Buy Running Gear

• Decathlon Malta (Paola): Budget-friendly options
• Sports Direct (Sliema): Brand names at discounts
• Intersport (various): Mid-range selection
• Online: Many runners order from UK/EU sites

Running Apps Used in Malta

• Strava: Most popular – join Malta clubs
• Garmin Connect: For Garmin users
• Nike Run Club: Good training plans
• Parkrun app: Track your parkrun results

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Malta good for running?

Yes! Despite being a small island, Malta offers varied running terrain and an active community. The main challenges are summer heat and traffic, but the scenic routes and welcoming clubs more than compensate.

When is the best time to run in Malta?

October to May offers the best running weather with temperatures between 12-25°C. In summer, run before 7 AM or after 7 PM to avoid the worst heat.

Are there trails for trail running?

Malta has some trail options, though they're limited. Dingli Cliffs, the Victoria Lines route, and Gozo's countryside offer the best off-road running. Terrain is rocky, so trail shoes are recommended.

How do I join a running club?

Most clubs welcome drop-ins at their group runs. Check their Facebook pages for schedules. No commitment needed initially – try a few runs before joining formally.

Is it safe to run alone?

Malta is very safe for solo running at any time of day. The main risks are traffic (stick to promenades) and heat (run at appropriate times). Female runners report feeling safe.

Can I run the Sliema promenade at night?

Yes, the Sliema-St. Julian's promenade is well-lit and populated in the evenings. It's a popular route for evening joggers year-round.