Gozo

Gozo, or as known by the locals, Għawdex [Awdesch] forms part of the Maltese archipelago, made up of 3 islands; Malta, Gozo and Comino, which are in the midst of the Mediterranean Sea. Gozo, the second largest of the islands is just a ferry ride away from the main land Malta, approximately 5km of sea. However the island boasts distinct rural characteristics, being quieter and embracing a diverse landscape of flat topped hills, rugged cliffs, deep valleys and beautiful inlets, making it ideal for a life rooted in fishing and agricultural activity.

The island’s population is just around 37,000 people. It enjoys an interesting mix of sandy and rocky beaches, 7,000 years of history, various landmarks, scenic walks and top diving destinations together with a good number of dining locations, bars and nightclubs. Although just 67 square km, there is a lot to do, see and experience in Gozo. It is the location to choose if you’re looking for a holiday in the sun.

With mostly sunny weather, expansive beaches, a thriving nightlife and 7,000 years of history, there is a great deal to see and do. With a little help from any guidebook, captivating places of interest are immediately identified.

Xagħra

You will be situated in the second largest village in Gozo Malta called Xagħra with a population of 4,200 people and only 4 km from the capital city of Gozo, Victoria.

Xagħra is home to a UNESCO world heritage site, the famous Ġgantija temples built during the Neolithic Age (c.3600-2500 BC), which makes these temples more than 5500 years old and some of the world’s oldest manmade religious structures.

Xagħra overlooks Ramla Bay. Its particularly golden-reddish sand makes this beach unique. Roman remains lie beneath the sand and the famous Calypso Cave overlooks the western side of the beach. According to tradition, this is the cave referred to by Homer in The Odyssey. The nymph Calypso lived in this cave and it is where she entertained Ulysses for seven years before he resumed his journey.

Xagħra also overlooks the village of Marsalforn, the most popular tourist resort on the island. It is well served with restaurants, bars and beaches. The village has also become a forefront diving centre in Gozo, with several scuba diving schools located on the sea front.

Other sites to visit in Xagħra: Ta’ Sansuna, Xerri’s Grotto, Ninu’s Cave, Kola Windmill, Ġgantija, Stone Circle, Santa Verna, Museum of Toys, Calypso Cave, Xagħra Church.

Things to do in Gozo

  • Mingle with the villagers and experience a village feast at its best during the summer months.
  • Wander through the old city part of Victoria, visit the Citadel and stop for a coffee at St. George’s Square or Independence square.
  • Enjoy the traditional local pastry called Pastizzi filled with ricotta or peas. Delicious!
  • Visit the Salt Pans in Qbajjar.
  • Walk through the Nadur war shelter.
  • Go for a pre-dinner stroll in the popular seaside villages of Marsalforn or Xlendi and enjoy dining in one of the seaside restaurants.
  • Visit the religious shrine of the Blessed Virgin of Ta' Pinu in the majestic Sanctuary of Ta' Pinu.
  • Enjoy some water sports, rent a jet-ski or go canoeing, or if you're feeling adventurous opt for a banana ride.
  • Charter a day at sea on a beautiful yacht and go around the island.
  • Visit the various museums in Gozo - crafts, culture, religion, and more!
  • If visiting in February, don't miss out on the street carnival in Nadur.
  • Visit Mġarr ix-Xini, the renowned beach where Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt spent their honeymoon filming By the Sea.
  • Enjoy a dip in the beautiful waters and complement the visit with a delightful lunch of fresh fish.
  • Go for at least one dive while staying in Gozo.
  • Wash down some fresh Gozo cheeselets with a bottle of local wine.
  • Marvel about the Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs, which are in the limits of Sannat.
  • Grab a drink and enjoy the sun setting in Xlendi.
  • Rent a mountain bike/quad bike/ car and explore Gozo. Enjoy ‘getting lost’ and asking the friendly locals for directions.
  • Animal lover? Take a horse ride and explore the Gozo countryside.
  • Catch a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon in Comino.
  • Soak up the sun on one of the lovely beaches in Gozo.