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Sarraflu Pond
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Landmark
Sarraflu Pond, located near the village of Kerċem on the heights of Għajn Abdul, is the largest natural freshwater pond on the island of Gozo. Situated approximately 120 meters above sea level, it represents a rare permanent water source in the Maltese archipelago. The pond is fed by a natural aquifer and provides a critical habitat for indigenous species, including the Maltese Painted Frog and various dragonflies. Historically, the area was significant for agriculture, with nearby caves showing signs of habitation dating back to the Bronze Age. The surrounding limestone landscape features panoramic views of the western coastline and the Dwejra region. It is a key ecological site protected under local environmental regulations to maintain its delicate biodiversity. The area remains a peaceful retreat that showcases the natural landscape of the island before extensive human intervention.
- Location: Malta
- Top sights: Wardija Punic Temple · Xlendi Salt Pans · Xlendi Eroded Rock
- Nearby: Victoria (Rabat), Gozo (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 15 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 19 | 22 | 25 | 26 | 25 | 23 | 20 | 17 |
| Rain mm | 74 | 67 | 53 | 35 | 17 | 12 | 4 | 10 | 63 | 83 | 92 | 83 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The pond is freely accessible and can be visited at any time. There are no entry fees or restrictions as it is a natural body of water.
Typical hours
As a natural lake, there are no opening hours; the surroundings are most beautiful in daylight. Especially in the early morning, the landscape reflects calmly in the water.
Photography
Photography is allowed and worthwhile, especially the reflections in the water are appealing. A polarizing filter can enhance reflections and intensify colors.
Time needed
A visit typically takes about 30 minutes for a walk around the pond. If you want to enjoy the peace or have a picnic, allow one hour.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby Sanap Cliffs, just a few minutes' drive away. The town of Victoria with its citadel also lends itself to a combination.
Getting there
The pond is best reached by car; nearby there is a small parking spot. From the road, a short unpaved path leads directly to the water.
Insider tip
Bring insect repellent as there may be mosquitoes near the freshwater. A folding chair and a good book make the stay even more relaxing.
Geography
Facts
- The pond is situated at an elevation of approximately 120 meters above sea level.
- Sarraflu is one of the few natural freshwater bodies in Malta that remains filled year-round.
- Archaeological evidence in nearby caves suggests human activity dating to the Bronze Age.
- The site serves as a vital breeding ground for the endemic Maltese Painted Frog.
- The water level is maintained by a natural perched aquifer within the Upper Coralline Limestone.
- The pond area covers roughly 1,500 square meters depending on seasonal rainfall.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Sarraflu Pond (10)
Torri tax-Xlendi
Lascaris Tower, a 17th-century watchtower in Xlendi.
Xlendi
Sandy and pebble beach in Xlendi bay, surrounded by cliffs.
Dwejra Tower🗼 tower
Lascaris Tower, a round watchtower from the 17th century near Dwejra.
Underground Floor Mill
Underground mill in Xlendi, likely from the Knights' period.
View on former Azure Window
Viewpoint overlooking the spot where the Azure Window stood.
Ta' Dbiegi
Hill on Gozo offering a wide view over the island.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Għadira ta' Sarraflu?
One of the few natural freshwater ponds on the island of Gozo.
Are there animals to see?
Yes, you can often see ducks and small freshwater turtles there.
Where is this pond located?
Near the Sanap Cliffs, in the village of Kerċem.
Does the pond dry up in summer?
It usually holds water all year round, even in summer.
Can you have a picnic there?
Yes, it is a quiet spot, handy for a short break in nature.
Sarraflu Pond: where is it located?
Sarraflu Pond is located in Malta.
Sarraflu Pond: what is there to see?
Highlights include Wardija Punic Temple, Xlendi Salt Pans, Xlendi Eroded Rock.
Sarraflu Pond: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Sarraflu Pond: why is it worth visiting?
Sarraflu Pond, located near the village of Kerċem on the heights of Għajn Abdul, is the largest natural freshwater pond on the island of Gozo.
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Xlendi
Xlendi is a popular seaside resort set in a picturesque, fjord-like bay, flanked by high cliffs.
San Lawrenz
San Lawrenz is a small, tranquil village on Gozo's west coast, close to the former Azure Window site and Dwejra Bay.
Kerċem
Kerċem is a village to the west of Victoria, situated in the picturesque Lunzjata Valley, and known for its rural environment.
Għasri
Għasri is the smallest village in Gozo, known for the secluded, fjord-like Wied il-Għasri and the Giordan Lighthouse.
Wied il-Mielah
A spectacular natural limestone arch on the northern coast of Gozo island.
Xewkija
Xewkija is one of Gozo's oldest villages, dominated by the massive dome of its Rotunda church, dedicated to St.
Xagħra
Xagħra is a large village in Gozo, famous for the UNESCO-listed Ġgantija Temples, Calypso's Cave, and Ramla Bay.
Nadur
Situated on a plateau in eastern Gozo, Nadur is famous for its vibrant carnival, its maritime influence, and the Ta' Kenuna Tower.
Qawra
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History & landmarks
Lunzjata Valley
One of the most fertile and scenic valleys in Gozo.
Fungus Rock
Distinctive rock in Dwejra Bay.
Mġarr ix-Xini
A narrow, secluded bay and valley.
Ramla Bay
Largest red sandy beach in Gozo.
San Blas Bay
A secluded bay with characteristic red sand.
Ħondoq ir-Rummien
A small cove with crystal clear water directly facing Comino.
Blue Lagoon
Famous bay on Comino.
Nature
Ta' Duna Hill
A small hill on Gozo near Xagħra.
Mġarr ix-Xini Valley (Gozo)
A steep-sided valley leading to a secluded bay, used as a filming location for the movie 'By the Sea'.
Qammieh Point
A rocky headland with great views towards Ghadira Bay and Gozo.
Coral Lagoon (Malta)
A large sea cave with a collapsed roof, forming a hidden lagoon.
Fomm ir-Riħ Bay
A secluded and hard-to-reach bay with dramatic cliffs and clear water.
Victoria Lines Fault
A natural geological fault along which a line of fortifications was built in the 19th century.
More places
Ta' Cenc Cliffs (Gozo)
These cliffs on Gozo are a major nesting site for colonies of seabirds.
Gozo 3D Cinema (Citadel)
A cinema in the Gozo Citadel showing a 3D film about the island's history.
Xwejni Salt Pans (Gozo)
Traditional salt pans where sea salt has been harvested by hand for centuries.
Marsalforn Bay (Gozo)
A popular resort town with a small harbour for fishing boats.
Fort Chambray
A fortified city overlooking Mġarr Harbour.
Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal
The ferry terminal on the northernmost point of Malta for services to Gozo.
Ghadira Nature Reserve
An important bird sanctuary and wetland, especially during bird migration seasons.
Il-Qortin Ridge
A narrow ridge located northeast of Mellieħa.