Fomm ir-Rih Bay

Fomm ir-Rih Bay (Fomm ir-Riħ) is a remote bay on Malta: a deep inlet on the west coast below the hamlet of Bahrija, on the Mgarr coast south of Gnejna Bay. High cliffs and clay slopes ring the bay, and the shore at the bottom is pebbles and rock rather than soft sand. Do not rely on services or lifeguard cover being available.

Getting down is part of the trip. Check the current public access route locally before setting out. Do not assume that a cliff-side path is open or safe; wear proper shoes and avoid wet conditions. The reward is clear, deep water for swimming and snorkelling and a sense of space that is hard to find elsewhere on the island. The bay faces northwest and is exposed to the sea: on rough days, do not swim. Bring water, food and shade, and carry your rubbish back up.

Know before you go

• Check public access and path conditions locally before attempting the descent.
• Pebble and rock shore: water shoes help.
• Do not rely on facilities, shade or lifeguard cover.
• Avoid when the wind is from the west and the sea is up.

Fomm ir-Rih is a natural stop on a west-coast walk (see coastal walking and hiking) and pairs with the cliff views at Dingli Cliffs further south. Base yourself in Mdina and Rabat, and for an easier swim nearby, head north to Gnejna Bay.