Ta' Cenc Cliffs: Breathtaking Views

Ta’ Cenc Cliffs

Once you make it to the edge of these limestone cliffs you will enjoy one of the most spectacular views of the Mediterranean. Living in Malta for a few years now, Ta’Cenc has become my favourite spot to watch sunsets.

How to get there

Reaching the Ta' Cenc Cliffs is quite simple. If you're coming from Malta, take the ferry from Cirkewwa to Mgarr, Gozo. From Mgarr you can catch bus 303 to Victoria, the island's capital. From there, bus 305 will take you to Sannat, the closest village to the cliffs. From the bus stop you will have to walk another two minutes to get to the parking lot of Hotel Ta' Cenc. If you go by car, this is where you would park as your little hike starts just here (see blue line).

Path towards the sunset point

The endless horizon

The walk to the cliffs isn’t really challenging, which makes it suitable for hikers of all levels including children. The terrain is mostly flat, with some uneven patches. So comfortable walking shoes are recommended. As you make your way toward the cliffs, you'll be surrounded by low-lying shrubs, wild thyme and other Mediterranean flora. Depending on the season, you might spot colourful wildflowers that resist the windy conditions. I would recommend you walk along the tiny little path that goes to the cliffs. This way you are affecting the sensitive flora as little as possible.

Evening sunlight hitting the cliffs

Once you reach the cliffs, you will be impressed by the views. The limestone walls are going down approx. 150 metres until they hit the deep dark blue sea. The waves crashing against the cliffs below create a soft sound that you can still hear at the top. Sometimes cargo ships appear across the endless horizon as they pass by Malta on their way from Suez to Gibraltar.

Unlike more crowded tourist spots, Ta' Cenc remains relatively untouched. You won’t find large groups of visitors here, just the occasional hiker or local.

Wildlife

Another highlight of the cliffs is the wildlife. Ta’Cenc is home to several bird species, including the majestic Peregrine Falcon and colonies of Cory’s Shearwaters. If you visit the cliffs in the evening, you might even hear their eerie calls as they return to their nests.

Historical importance

Ta' Cenc also has a historical importance. The area is dotted with ancient cart ruts, mysterious parallel grooves carved into the limestone whose origins remain debated. Some historians believe they date back to the Bronze Age, while others suggest they were made by prehistoric settlers.

Ancient cart ruts

Also, remnants of a prehistoric temple and a few Punic tombs can be found nearby.

Best time to visit

The best time to explore Ta' Cenc is during the cooler months, from October to April. The summer months can be hot, with no shade along the route. Late afternoons are ideal if you want to avoid the heat and be at the cliffs at sunset.

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