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Simar Nature Reserve

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Animal habitat
—°10
Simar Nature Reserve (Malta)

Weather…

Is-Simar Nature Reserve is a managed wetland located in the Xemxija valley in northern Malta. The area was originally a salt marsh but faced significant degradation before being restored by BirdLife Malta in the 1990s. Today, it is a protected Ramsar site featuring a mix of open water pools, reed beds, and tamarisk trees. It provides a vital sanctuary for migratory birds and is the only place in the Maltese Islands where certain species like the Little Bittern and Common Coot have been recorded breeding. The reserve's ecosystem also supports a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and insects that are rare elsewhere on the archipelago. Educational facilities on-site help visitors understand the delicate balance of wetland habitats in a Mediterranean environment. Its preservation is critical for maintaining biodiversity in the increasingly urbanized region of St. Paul's Bay.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C151415161923262725232016
Rain mm74655133171141063829582

📋 Practical info

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Best season
Simar Nature Reserve is best visited between October and April when migratory birds such as herons and ducks stop here. In spring, the wetlands offer lush vegetation and many fledglings.
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Best time of day
Early morning is good to observe birds feeding and singing. Late dusk also brings much activity, especially when birds return to their roosting spots.
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Etiquette
Stay on designated paths to avoid disturbing sensitive vegetation. Avoid loud noises to prevent scaring wildlife, and do not leave any litter behind.
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What to bring
Binoculars are essential to observe birds from a distance without disturbing them. Waterproof shoes are recommended as the trails in wetlands are often wet and muddy.
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Getting there
The reserve is located near Xemxija on Malta, reachable by car or taxi. Parking is limited; arriving early secures a spot.
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What to expect
Birds can be shy; stay quiet and wait until they get used to your presence. A longer stay in one spot increases chances of spotting rare species.

Geography

Coordinates
35.95500, 14.38200

Facts

  • Restoration work began in 1992 to recreate the wetland environment.
  • It was officially designated as a Ramsar site in 1996.
  • The reserve covers an area of approximately 5 hectares.
  • It is the only breeding site in Malta for the Little Bittern.
  • BirdLife Malta manages the site under a management agreement with the government.
  • The Mediterranean Killifish, a rare fish species, is found in its brackish waters.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Is-Simar Bird SanctuaryIs-Simar Bird Sanctuary<1 km · SWExplore →
St. Paul's IslandsSt. Paul's Islands2 km · NEExplore →
MellieħaMellieħa2 km · WExplore →
Wardija HighlandWardija Highland2 km · SExplore →
Wignacourt TowerWignacourt Tower2 km · EExplore →
Il-Qortin RidgeIl-Qortin Ridge2 km · NWExplore →
Ghajn Tuffieha BayGhajn Tuffieha Bay3 km · SWExplore →
Ghadira Bay Boat RentalsGhadira Bay Boat Rentals3 km · NWExplore →

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 Simar Nature Reserve (10)

Roman Bath

Roman bath ruins in Mellieħa, dating from antiquity.

Phoenician Cart Ruts

Phoenician cart ruts in Mellieħa, carved into the rock.

Il-Palazz ta' Selmun🗼 tower

Villa in Mellieħa, Malta, a historic building.

Cave dwelling

Cave dwelling in Mellieħa, traces of ancient habitation.

Simar Nature Reserve

Nature reserve in Malta, home to many bird species.

Fort Campbell

Former fort in Malta, now a tourist attraction.

Mistra Battery

Artillery battery in Mistra Bay, Mellieħa, Malta.

Imgiebah Bay

Beach in the north of Malta, a popular swimming spot.

Torri t' Għajn Ħadid

De Redin Tower, a former watchtower on the coast.

Saint Paul's Island Viewpoint

Viewpoint overlooking Saint Paul's Island.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is special about Simar Nature Reserve?
It is an artificially created wetland in Xemxija that is now an important sanctuary for waterfowl.
Does entry to the reserve cost anything?
No, entry is free, but BirdLife Malta welcomes small donations for maintenance.
When can you watch birds in Simar Reserve?
The reserve is mostly open to visitors on weekends from November to May.
Are there toilets there?
There are basic sanitary facilities at the visitor center at the entrance of the reserve.
Is the reserve accessible for wheelchair users?
The main path to the first observation point is mostly level and suitable for wheelchairs.
Simar Nature Reserve: where is it located?
Simar Nature Reserve is located in Malta.
Simar Nature Reserve: what is there to see?
Highlights include Roman Bath, Phoenician Cart Ruts, Il-Palazz ta' Selmun.
Simar Nature Reserve: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Simar Nature Reserve: why is it worth visiting?
Is-Simar Nature Reserve is a managed wetland located in the Xemxija valley in northern Malta.
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