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![]() 92 Percent of Swimming Areas In Malta Have Been Rated As Excellent By The EEALast changed: August 04 2024 14:34 by PCLMedia In a recent report by the European Environment Agency and the European Commission, 92% of swimming areas in Malta have been rated as excellent, highlighting the nation's commitment to maintaining high water quality standards. This comprehensive analysis reviewed 87 swimming areas across Malta and Gozo, with 80 achieving the highest marks for cleanliness and safety. Malta ranks seventh in Europe for the quality of its sea water, with 92% of its swimming areas rated as excellent in 2023. Out of the 87 areas assessed, 80 were classified as excellent, three as good, and four as sufficient. This marks a slight decline from 2022, with two fewer areas rated as excellent and a small increase in those rated as good and sufficient. The European Environment Agency's report evaluated the water quality of 22,000 swimming areas across EU member states, Albania, and Switzerland. These classifications are based on stringent criteria for water cleanliness and safety, determined through annual monitoring for harmful bacteria that can cause serious illnesses. Cyprus leads the rankings with 97.6% of its swimming areas rated as excellent, followed by Austria, Croatia, and Greece, each surpassing 95%. At the other end of the spectrum, Albania's swimming areas rank lowest, with only 41.2% rated as excellent. The European Union average stands at 85.4%, indicating a generally positive trend across the continent. "This report underscores the importance of maintaining high water quality standards to ensure public health and environmental sustainability," said a spokesperson for the European Environment Agency. "It is encouraging to see such high levels of compliance across Europe." The evaluation process categorizes water quality into four levels: excellent, good, sufficient, or poor. The latest findings show that 85% of European swimming areas are rated as excellent, meeting the highest standards of cleanliness and safety. Additionally, 96% achieved at least the minimum quality standards set by the Directive on Water for Swimming. However, 321 out of the 22,000 sites examined in the EU, or 1.5%, were found to be of poor quality, posing potential health risks. The report includes visual charts and graphs that illustrate these findings, providing a clear and accessible overview of water quality across Europe. As we look to the future, continued efforts to monitor and improve water quality will be essential in maintaining these high standards and addressing areas that fall short. By maintaining rigorous monitoring and proactive measures, Malta and other EU countries can ensure their swimming areas remain safe and enjoyable for all. Discover the Enchanting Beaches of Malta and Gozo Malta and its sister island Gozo are renowned for their stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. These islands, located in the heart of the Mediterranean, offer a mix of sandy stretches, rocky coves, and picturesque bays, making them a perfect destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. 1. Golden Bay Golden Bay, located on the northwest coast of Malta, is one of the island's most popular beaches. Known for its wide expanse of golden sand, this beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The calm, clear waters make it ideal for families, while the surrounding cliffs offer breathtaking views, especially at sunset. The beach is well-equipped with facilities, including sun loungers, umbrellas, and several beachfront cafes and restaurants. 2. Mellieħa Bay (Għadira Bay) Mellieħa Bay, also known as Għadira Bay, is the largest sandy beach in Malta. Situated in the northern part of the island, it features shallow waters that are perfect for young children and novice swimmers. The beach is lined with amenities such as beach clubs, snack bars, and water sports rental shops. Mellieħa Bay is a bustling spot during the summer months, offering a lively atmosphere for visitors. 3. Blue Lagoon, Comino The Blue Lagoon on the small island of Comino, situated between Malta and Gozo, is a must-visit destination for its mesmerizing turquoise waters and dramatic limestone cliffs. Although not a traditional sandy beach, the Blue Lagoon’s shallow, clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Accessible by boat from both Malta and Gozo, this picturesque spot is incredibly popular during the peak tourist season, so visiting early in the day is recommended to avoid the crowds. 4. Ramla Bay, Gozo Ramla Bay, located on the northern coast of Gozo, is famed for its striking red sand. This unique beach is surrounded by lush greenery and historical sites, including the ruins of a Roman villa. Ramla Bay’s calm waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, and the beach’s unspoiled natural beauty provides a tranquil escape from the busier beaches on Malta. Facilities are limited, so bringing your own supplies is advisable. 5. St. Peter’s Pool For those seeking a more adventurous beach experience, St. Peter’s Pool on the southeastern coast of Malta offers a unique, natural swimming pool carved into the rock. The clear, deep waters are perfect for diving and snorkeling, and the flat rocks surrounding the pool provide ample sunbathing spots. Due to its remote location, St. Peter’s Pool is less crowded, making it a serene spot to enjoy the sun and sea. 6. Ħondoq ir-Rummien, Gozo Ħondoq ir-Rummien, a hidden gem on the southeastern coast of Gozo, is a small, pebbly beach with stunning views of Comino. The crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkeling and kayaking, with several sea caves and underwater tunnels to explore. This secluded beach is perfect for those looking to escape the more touristy spots and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea. 7. Paradise Bay Paradise Bay, located near the ferry terminal in Cirkewwa, is a small yet charming beach with soft sand and clear waters. Its secluded location and scenic surroundings make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The bay offers excellent conditions for swimming and snorkeling, and the beach bar provides refreshments and rentals for beach equipment. 8. Ghajn Tuffieha Bay Adjacent to Golden Bay, Ghajn Tuffieha Bay is a quieter alternative, accessed by a steep flight of steps. This unspoiled beach boasts golden sands and clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation. The surrounding natural landscape and fewer crowds make it a haven for those seeking tranquility. Malta and Gozo’s beaches offer a diverse range of experiences, from lively and family-friendly to secluded and adventurous. Whether you're looking to relax on the sand, explore underwater worlds, or enjoy thrilling water sports, the beaches of Malta and Gozo provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable Mediterranean getaway. Do not hesitat to contact us for more information. |