A walk in the woodlands is virtually unknown in Malta, and Foresta 2000 aims to provide a setting for a woodland experience. Foresta 2000 is a reforestation and habitat restoration project co-managed by BirdLife Malta, Din l-Art Ħelwa and PARK. It is situated on the south-facing slope of Marfa Ridge overlooking Ghadira nature reserve, north of Mellieħa bay. Almost all of Foresta 2000 lies within t
he Bird Sanctuary buffer zone of Għadira nature reserve, forms part of the Għadira Special Area of Conservation, and is also a Natura 2000 site. The site is an area of restored land, which had previously been cleared for agricultural use. Since 2003 several thousand trees have been planted, and more than 24,000 native young trees and shrubs now grow at Foresta 2000. The site aims to be a mosaic of different habitats with the main vegetation habitats being steppe, woodland, maquis and garrigue. Over 100 bird species have been recorded at Foresta and various reptiles, mammals and insects can be seen on a regular basis. Despite the years of neglect or direct damage to the site, over 200 species of plants have been recorded at Foresta 2000. Thanks to the woodland project, the flora at Foresta 2000 will diversify further. The area is also of historical value, with several structures relating to past coastal military defence, not least the massive 17th century St Agatha Tower that dominates the ridge. Foresta 2000 is open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day and entrance is free. There is parking space available and a bus stop nearby. There is also a public toilet near the south gate. Visitors are urged to observe the country code. Foresta 2000 is a magnet for people wishing to explore and enjoy nature.
