Chadwick Lakes

Chadwick Lakes are a series of small reservoirs and seasonal pools in the Rabat area of Malta that form part of a local water-collection landscape. The site is noted for its intermittent lakes and rural character.

After heavy rain the lakes fill to create attractive shallow pools and wetlands that draw walkers, photographers and local birdwatchers; at dry times many pools reduce to smaller ponds. Paths and informal tracks provide access to the lakes and surrounding countryside.

The area has long functioned as a local water-catchment and agricultural landscape; the lakes take their modern name from engineering or administrative work carried out in the island’s more recent history.

The lakes lie in the western part of Malta, in the Rabat locality, and are accessed from nearby villages and country lanes.

• Seasonal pools: the lakes are typically seasonal or intermittent and are most impressive after winter rains when the chains of pools fill and attract walkers and birdlife.

Chadwick Lakes are accessed from Rabat/Mdina by local roads; the drive from Valletta is roughly 25-35 minutes. Park along the minor lanes and follow footpaths that run between the reservoirs; expect narrow country roads with limited parking.

• Try the walking trail between Chadwick Lakes' reservoirs early in the day for cooler temperatures and active birdlife.
• The area can be muddy after rain; waterproof footwear helps on the narrower farm tracks.
• Bring binoculars - local birdwatchers prize the site for marsh and farmland species.