Parks & gardens
Buskett Gardens
What It Is
Buskett Gardens is one of the few extensive woodland areas in Malta, situated along a fertile valley. The grounds feature shaded paths surrounded by mature pines, citrus groves, and Mediterranean trees. Travellers visit primarily for walking and natural shade, which are relatively rare across the island's arid landscape. At the edge of the valley stands Verdala Palace, the official residence of the President of Malta.
Getting There
From central Mosta, the site is reachable by car or taxi in roughly 15 to 25 minutes. Local bus connections running via Rabat generally take 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and transfers.
How Much Time to Spend
Allow 1 to 2 hours to walk the valley trails, relax under the trees, and view the exterior of the palace.
When to Visit
Spring and autumn provide the greenest scenery and comfortable temperatures for walking. During summer, go in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Weekends, especially Sunday afternoons, tend to be crowded with local families picnicking, so visit on a weekday for a quieter experience.
What to Combine It With
You can pair a visit with nearby cultural and archaeological sites:
- Misraħ Għar il-Kbir (0.8km) – Ancient cart ruts and cave dwellings located just up the hill.
- Collegiate Church of St Paul (2.5km) – Historic parish church in central Rabat.
- Domvs Romana (2.9km) – Preserved ruins of a Roman townhouse and mosaic pavements.
- Mnajdra (4.9km) – Megalithic temple complex situated toward the southern coast.
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors