Pembroke, located in north eastern Malta, is a coastal area characterised by open landscapes and scenic walking trails. The area also features remnants of historic military fortifications overlooking the sea. Much of the natural land along the coast is designated as a Natura 2000 site, highlighting its ecological importance. This stretch of coastline is relatively quiet and less frequented by visitors, making it an ideal escape from the busier central areas.
The Madliena Tower
Madliena Tower, built in 1658 on elevated ground in Pembroke near a former medieval watch post, was positioned between St Mark’s and St George’s Towers and followed the typical De Redin design.
Originally a square, two-storey structure with a rooftop turret, it later gained nearby defensive features such as a fougasse (around 1741) and an 18th-century entrenchment, now mostly lost.
Today, the tower is maintained by Wirt Artna and can be visited by appointment.
Desalination Plant
The Natura 2000 landscape is partially interrupted by a reverse osmosis plant, one of four facilities that desalinate seawater to produce potable water in Malta. As a result of this process, which removes salt from seawater, the bay may be slightly saltier due to the discharge of concentrated brine. However, swimming here is still considered safe, thanks to the generally good water quality and easy access to the sea.
White Rocks
An ugly truth
Close to Pembroke, in the neighbouring village of Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq, lies the Mediterraneo Marine Park. Although it is presented as an educational attraction, concerns have been raised about the conditions in which some animals are kept. Visitors have reported dolphins confined to relatively small enclosures, reptiles housed in poorly maintained tanks, and birds kept in limited spaces.
This is particularly worrying in the case of dolphins. These animals are highly intelligent, social, and naturally wide-ranging, often travelling long distances in the wild each day. When kept in confined environments, they can experience stress, boredom, and behavioural changes. Limited space and lack of environmental stimulation can affect both their physical health and mental wellbeing.
It is important to think critically about whether the conditions provided in these types of facilities truly meet the needs of the animals, or whether alternative approaches—such as observing wildlife in natural habitats or supporting genuine conservation initiatives—might be more ethical.
Fancy a Challenge?
For those seeking a bit more adventure, the area transforms once a year—towards the end of May or beginning of June—into an obstacle-filled running trail. The event welcomes participants of all fitness levels and is a great opportunity for team-building with friends or colleagues.
How to get there
By Car
Parking is available on the roadside along most of the coast road.
By Public transport
Take a bus to Pembroke. There are several stops along the sea.
Dolphins from Pembroke
Looking out towards the horizon, between Malta and Sicily, another species calls these waters home — the Striped Dolphin. The most common dolphin in the Mediterranean, Striped Dolphins travel in large, lively groups and are known for their playful, acrobatic behaviour. On a clear day, Sicily is visible from here, and if you ever make the crossing, keep an eye on the water — a encounter with these spirited dolphins might just be the highlight of your trip.
Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs)
As you walk along the Pembroke coast, using a good binoculars, you might notice some floating structures offshore. These are FADs and are used to catch lampuki.
Dolphins & FADs
The interaction between dolphins and FADs is a subject of ongoing research. At EcoMarine Malta, researchers are studying how often dolphins visit them, what attracts them there, and the impact this has on both the dolphins and fishing operations. Understanding these interactions is crucial to balancing marine conservation with human activity.