Chadwick Lakes (Wied il-Qlejgħa), one of Malta’s most ecologically significant valley systems, has unveiled its newly rehabilitated 2km walking trail, a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern environmental restoration.
This trail was inaugurated by Minister for the Environment Miriam Dalli, an event that was marked by guided walking tours that attracted families, hikers, and tourists. Visitors strolled past re-engineered dams, restored retaining walls, and informative panels that illuminate the valley’s historical and environmental significance.
During the inauguration, Minister Miriam Dalli emphasised the importance of such projects in creating accessible and sustainable public spaces. “These works reflect our commitment to giving back to the public, ensuring that natural spaces like Chadwick Lakes are preserved and enjoyed by future generations. Through these initiatives, we are also enhancing our resilience to climate change while witnessing families and children enjoying nature together. Furthermore, through the recent rehabilitation works, Chadwick Lakes currently stores around 70 million litres of water, benefiting nearby farmers by sustaining their crops. The longer retention of water in the dams provides multiple advantages for both agriculture and the ecosystem’s inhabitants,” she stated.
Stretching from Mtarfa to Fiddien, the trail invites visitors to explore an area where ancient water catchments meet contemporary ecological innovation. A dedicated play area for children also ensures that nature and history can be enjoyed by all ages.
Once a vital water source that contributed to the planning of Valletta’s famed Wignacourt aqueduct and later to Sir Osbert Chadwick’s pioneering water supply projects, this Mediterranean valley has long sustained local farmers and communities. Today, following an extensive restoration project initiated by the Energy & Water Agency in collaboration with the Ministry for the Environment, ERA, Nature Trust Malta, and the Rabat Local Council, Chadwick Lakes is reimagined as an accessible, vibrant ecological hub.
Manuel Sapiano, CEO of the Energy & Water Agency, stated that Chadwick Lakes has undergone significant restoration, including the removal of invasive species such as the great reed, crayfish, castor oil trees, and balloon vine, which threatened our indigenous biodiversity. “Our ongoing efforts, including the reintroduction of native species like the White Poplar, are restoring the natural balance of this unique freshwater environment. Additionally, clearing debris and silt from the dams has expanded the valley’s rain-harvesting capacity, ensuring a sustainable water supply for both nature and agriculture,” he said.
Today, the valley is home to the thriving population of the painted frog, the sole amphibian native to the Maltese Islands, to indigenous trees like the White Willow and White Poplar, and an array of birds, including the European Robin, Cetti’s Warbler, and Spanish Sparrow. Residents and visitors are invited to experience the trail firsthand.
The opening of the trail follows last week’s announcement of the completion of infrastructural works, carried out in collaboration and agreement with Infrastructure Malta, the Environment and Resources Authority, the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, and the Energy and Water Agency, ensuring the long-term accessibility and ecological integrity of the Chadwick Lakes area.
