Blue Grotto, mesmerising clear waters in the South of Malta
Blue Grotto, a natural beauty in Malta
The Blue Grotto is located on the southern coast of Malta, west of Wied iz-Zurrieq facing the little deserted islet of Filfla. The site got its name from a British soldier who thought that since the area looks like the Grotta Azzurra in Capri, it deserves the same name, and in fact Blue Grotto is the equivalent for Grotta Azzurra in English. The site is extremely popular, attracting some 100,000 tourists per year, also for diving purposes. The site also features in the film Troy (2004) starring Brad Pitt. The location of this fascinating natural grotto combines with sunlight and the surrounding chain of caves to reflect the phosphorescent colours of the submerged flora and the deep dark shade of blue of the sea.´
Getting to the Blue Grotto
Some caves, including the Blue Grotto, which is the biggest cave in the area, can be reached by boat from Wied iz-Zurrieq, from where you can also enjoy superb views of Filfla and the surroundings. The ‘frejgatini’ boats depart daily between 09:00 and 16:30 weather permitting, (apart from Christmas and New Year) and cruise for about 25 minutes before reaching the caves. The water can be rough but the boatmen know the area well, so your safety is ensured.
The Blue Grotto Caves and Arch
There is a massive arch (over 30m) and a system of sixcaves that were created by centuries of persistent action of the waves and the elements. The sky reflects the white sandy seabed, giving off a bright cobalt colour while the caves mirror the orange, purple and green off the minerals in the rocks. This particular spectacle of colours can be seen daily from sunrise until around one in the afternoon, and together with the white froth of the waves hitting the cliffs, the Blue Grotto presents exceptional photographic backgrounds.
When to visit Blue Grotto
A visit to the Blue Grotto is a must; however, the site can get extremely busy during summer. To enjoy the caves at their best, go early in the morning when the sun is lower in the sky and the sea is calmer. In case that the water’s too rough, or you don’t have enough time for a boat trip, there is a viewing platform on the road leading to site, where you can also enjoy this natural wonder.
