Northern Region
A Countryside Escape Where Maltese Traditions and Golden Beaches Meet
If you’ve been dreaming of the kind of place where fruit stands outnumber traffic lights, and life moves to the rhythm of nature, then Mġarr might just be your Maltese match. Tucked into the northwestern hills of Malta, this peaceful village is all about rolling farmland, rich history, and simple, soulful living.
Surrounded by open countryside, Mġarr is a place where the air smells like wild herbs and the fields bloom with strawberries, figs, and sun-kissed vegetables. Agriculture is still the heartbeat of this community, and if you're lucky enough to visit during the annual Strawberry Festival, you’ll see the whole village come alive with color, music, and—of course—mounds of fresh fruit turned into everything from pies to jams to cocktails.
The village core is small but mighty in charm. Think traditional limestone buildings, sleepy corners, and a few local cafés where you'll always be greeted with a smile—and probably offered a recommendation for the best rabbit dish in town (a beloved local specialty). At the center stands the Mġarr Parish Church, dedicated to St. Mary. With its unique oval dome and commanding hilltop presence, it’s one of the prettiest churches on the island, and a symbol of the tight-knit, faith-driven spirit of the community.
And while Mġarr may feel wonderfully tucked away, it’s also perfectly placed for sunseekers and beach lovers. Just down the road are Golden Bay and Għajn Tuffieħa, two of Malta’s most scenic beaches. Picture golden sands, peaceful waves, and sunsets that feel like a slow exhale. These spots are more chilled-out than the bustling resorts—and all the better for it.
History buffs? You’re in for a treat. Just on the village’s edge lie the Ta' Ħaġrat Temples, one of Malta’s oldest prehistoric sites and a UNESCO World Heritage gem. Standing among these megalithic stones, built more than 5,000 years ago, it’s hard not to feel the depth of time etched into the landscape here.
And if Gozo is on your itinerary (it should be!), the Ċirkewwa ferry terminal is just a short drive away, making Mġarr a smart and scenic jumping-off point for island-hopping adventures.
But above all, what makes Mġarr so special is the genuine, grounded way of life. This is the kind of place where families gather for long Sunday lunches, where farm-to-table isn’t a trend but a way of living, and where every meal, every view, every slow stroll through the countryside feels like an invitation to breathe a little deeper.
Whether you’re here for the food, the farmland, the history, or the hush, Mġarr is that rare kind of village that quietly wins your heart—and doesn’t let go.