Blue Grotto

On Malta's southern coast, a natural limestone arch stands off the cliffs at Wied iz-Zurrieq, and behind it a series of sea caves catch the morning sun. When the light is right, it reflects off the white sand bottom and through the water into the caves, turning them a deep phosphorescent blue with flashes of orange and purple from the mineral-stained walls. Small boats run from the tiny harbour, taking about twenty-five minutes to visit several caves and pass beneath the arch. The clifftop viewpoint on the approach road gives the classic photograph of the arch itself.

What you actually see

• The sea caves - the blue interiors on the boat circuit.
• The natural arch - the limestone span off the cliffs.
• The clifftop viewpoint - the postcard angle on the approach road.
• Wied iz-Zurrieq harbour - the tiny inlet the boats work from.

When to go

Morning is essential - the blue effect depends on the sun angle and fades after about eleven. Boats run from spring to autumn and stop entirely in rough seas, which happens often in winter. Calm days are the other requirement.

Honest expectations

Trips are cancelled frequently for swell, and the phone number to check is worth using before travelling out. The boats are small and open; those prone to seasickness should think twice on a choppy day. The visit is short - under half an hour on the water - so it works best combined with the Hagar Qim temples ten minutes away. Prices are fixed and posted at the kiosk.

Nearby

Hagar Qim and Mnajdra temples, Ghar Lapsi swimming and Dingli Cliffs.