Salina Nature Reserve

North > Malta

Salina Nature Reserve is a protected area forming part of the Natura 2000 network and also a Special Area of Conservation, managed by BirdLife Malta.

Added* by Nathaniel Attard
Most recent update 30 December 2023

Description

This is a 16th Century salt pans network built by the Knights of St John. Now it houses a new visitors' centre with information about the history, salt making and nature. Special attention has been taken to make this site interesting and educational for children.

The area is composed mainly of salt pans, together with a small saltmarsh, a garrigue area and a small woodland. It is mostly renowned as the best area on the island to view many different species of gulls such as Yellow-legged Gull, Mediterranean Gull and Black-headed Gull. Other common birds to see include the Little Egret and the Common Sandpiper.

Details

Access

The reserve is located on the Coast Road, and the best way to reach it is by car or by bus. Accessible from bus stops ‘Għasfur’ and ‘Salini’ on the routes 49, 212, 222, 225, N11, N212, X1 and X1B. There is ample parking space close by. The site can be easily explored on foot.

Terrain and Habitat

Forest , Wetland , Steppe , Reedbeds , Sea

Conditions

Flat

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Yes

Good birding season

Winter , Spring , Autumn

Best time to visit

Winter , Spring migration , Autumn migration

Route

Unpaved road , Narrow trail

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot , Wheelchair

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Extra info

Salina is open for visits on all days. Visitors may walk through part of the park freely Monday to Sunday (April to September 7am-8pm, October to March 7am-6pm). Entrance to the reserve is free of charge but donations are welcome.

Visitors who wish to learn more about the Park may visit from Monday to Friday between 8am and 4pm and on Sundays between 10am and 4pm when the Visitors’ Reception Centre will be open (excluding public holidays). On most times, staff may be able to assist visitors and answer any questions.

For more info visit our website below or call +356 2143 3265.

Links