Need somewhere to let the kids burn off some energy that doesn’t involve a shopping centre, an indoor play area or navigating yet another building site? Pack a few snacks, grab the bikes and head to Park tal-Mitħna, a brand new green corner of Malta where there’s plenty of room to run around.

Set in Mqabba, on the border with Qrendi, this 7,000-square-metre public park has given a former quarry a remarkable new lease of life. What was once an industrial site, where around 20,000 cubic metres of construction waste had accumulated over the years, has been transformed into an open-air space for families, children, nature lovers and four-legged visitors.

There’s plenty to keep everyone occupied. Children can explore the natural play areas, while cycling paths offer room for a little two-wheeled adventure. Fancy something a little more competitive? There’s also a table tennis area. Nature gets a look-in, too, with a bug and bee hotel providing a home for some of Malta’s smaller residents.

And the dogs haven’t been forgotten. A dedicated dog park is divided into separate areas for smaller and larger breeds, giving them space to run, play and socialise. Sanitary facilities are also available, making longer visits that little bit easier.