Beach
Riviera (Għajn Tuffieħa)
in Malta, Malta
On the scenic northwest coast, the secluded cove to the left of the main bay draws a relaxed gay and naturist crowd, though nudism is officially tolerated rather than legal.
Where it is
The bay of Għajn Tuffieħa, also called "Riviera", lies on the northwest coast near Mġarr, about 345 metres south of Golden Bay.
Address: 2 Triq l-Arżnell, Mellieħa
What it is
The sandy beach stands out for its reddish, iron-rich sand and can only be reached by a staircase of around 200 steps. That very effort keeps it unspoilt and less crowded than neighbouring beaches, with a scenic outlook over the bay.
History
On the cliffs above the bay stands the Għajn Tuffieħa Tower, one of several coastal towers built under Grand Master Lascaris in the 17th century. The nickname "Riviera" comes from the Riviera Martinique Hotel above the beach, which closed in 1988.