WATCH: Malta’s Hidden Gem of Organic, Regenerative Farming
Discover Malta’s Red Earth Farm, a regenerative agricultural haven where heirloom crops, sustainable farming, and community experiences come together to celebrate local food, biodiversity, and the passionate people growing it.
Now more than ever, people want to know where their food comes from and, importantly, who is growing it. During my adventures across Malta, I had the pleasure of discovering one of the island’s true hidden gems: Red Earth Farm, nestled beneath the scenic ‘Top of the World’ viewpoint in the Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq area.
Behind this remarkable farm is a dedicated brother-and-sister team, Claudia Cavallaro Pejnovic and Maurizio Cavallaro, whose passion, knowledge, and commitment to organic and regenerative agriculture are immediately evident from the moment you arrive.
One of the most distinctive features of Red Earth Farm is its use of heirloom seeds. Claudia carefully sources these traditional varieties, many of which have been passed down through generations and preserved in their original form. Heirloom crops play an important role in maintaining agricultural biodiversity while offering unique flavours, colours, and characteristics that are often lost in modern commercial farming.
During my visit, I had the opportunity to harvest both red and white radishes, growing in neat rows alongside the farm’s heirloom tomatoes. These radishes were a world away from many supermarket varieties. Their flavour was wonderfully intense, with a crisp texture and a sharp, peppery bite that highlighted the difference between freshly harvested produce and food that has travelled long distances before reaching our plates. There is something truly special about pulling a vegetable from the soil and tasting it moments later.
Just a few rows away, perfectly ripe beetroots were ready for harvesting. Their deep purple hues stood out beautifully against the rich earth. Sweet, earthy, and full of character, they were a wonderful example of the exceptional quality produce being cultivated at Red Earth Farm, vibrant, fresh, and bursting with natural flavour.
The farm produces an impressive variety of seasonal offerings, including edible flowers, microgreens, aromatic culinary herbs, and fresh organic eggs. One of the highlights for visitors is their ready-to-enjoy salad mixes, filled with colourful sweet and spicy greens harvested directly from the farm. It is almost impossible to leave without taking home at least one bag.
Emily, Maurizio and Claudia
Red Earth Farm’s approach is rooted in regenerative agriculture, including no-till cultivation and a commitment to working in harmony with nature. These methods help protect soil health, encourage biodiversity, and create a thriving ecosystem where sustainable food production can flourish.
Beyond growing food, Red Earth Farm has become an important educational and community space. Throughout the year, the farm hosts workshops and activities for both adults and children, including food preparation classes, wellness events, yoga and Pilates sessions, art therapy experiences, and creative farm-based activities for younger visitors. Special programmes for teenagers are also designed to encourage a deeper connection with nature, food production, and sustainable living.
For anyone looking to experience a different side of Malta, one centred around sustainability, education, and community, Red Earth Farm is well worth a visit. Whether you are passionate about organic farming, interested in local food, looking for wellness experiences, or simply hoping to spend time in a beautiful rural setting, this unique place offers something truly special.
I am delighted to have discovered Red Earth Farm and look forward to returning for many of their events throughout the year. It represents exactly the kind of authentic Maltese experience that reminds us of the importance of supporting local farmers and celebrating the people who dedicate themselves to bringing fresh, nourishing food to our tables.
