Gozo Travel Guide by My Gozo

1st Edition - Summer/Autumn 2012 www.mygozo.com

Island Guide & Maps

Your Guide To - Accommodation - Culture - Eating Out - Shopping Beaches - Getting Around - Property - Weddings - Diving - Adventure

What’s in your ‘My Gozo Guide’

Beaches

Property

Culture

Explore Gozo’s beautiful beaches including Ramla Bay, San Blas Bay and Mgarr IX-Xini

Inside - your definitive guide to purchasing a property on Gozo, and where to buy.

Historical monuments, fortified Cities,temples, caves and museums

www.visitgozo.com

m r a a h n c d s â&#x20AC;&#x2122; o tranquillity z o G r e v o c Dis

www.gozo.gov.mt

www.ecogozo.com

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Contents 6 Editors Welcome

Editors top ten activities, and places to visit whilst on the Island of Gozo

8 History of Gozo

Discover the evolution of Gozo as a populated Island and key historical events

10 Culture Vulture

Gozo has a good array of historical monuments including the Citadel in Victoria

12 Natural Beauty

Explore Dwejra, The Inland Sea, The Salt Pans, Ta Cenc Cliﬀs and the Ggantija Temples

14 Church Life

Gozo has a total of 22 churches, from small chaples to grand Basilica’s, Gozo has some beautiful Churches.

16 Recommended Dining

32 Mgarr

Gozo’s picturesque ferry port has some fantastic restaurants

34 Sannat

Laid back village oﬀering a taste of the real Gozo

35 Gharb and Azure Window

Visit Ta’Dbiegi craft centre, Dwejra and the Azure Window

36 Xaghra and Nadur

Xaghra has plenty to see and do. Nadur is the largest village on Gozo

38 Accommodation

From hotels to farmhouses, Gozo has plenty of accommodation options available to suit all budgets

Experience the best of Gozo’s restaurants

42 Getting Around

20 Victoria

43 Diving, Watersports

Victoria, Gozo’s capital is a bustling City, discover where to go, what to see and do and familiarise yourself with a free map

24 Xlendi

Discover Xlendi Bay, a popular ﬁshing village for tourists and locals alike

28 Marsalforn

Gozo’s premier tourist destination, discover where to eat, drink and sleep

Summer 2012

Hire a car, rent a bike, explore the island.

Gozo is a premier diving destination and has some excellent diving spots

45 Adventure

Gozo has plenty of adventure activities, from rock climbing to kayaking

46 Beach Life

Discover the best of Gozo’s beaches, from large sandy beaches to small intimate inlets

49 A Gozo Wedding

Gozo, the fairy tale wedding destination

52 A Taste of Gozo

Don’t leave Gozo without tasting the local produce and visiting Gozo’s cottage industries

55 Property

Everthing you need to know about owning a property on the Island of Gozo

51 Map of Gozo

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This Issues’s Shortcuts.... Looking for a beautiful beach ?

Visitors to Gozo are spoilt for choice with a wide choice of beaches on the Island (Page 46)

Looking for a bit of culture ?

from museums to churches, Gozo has something for everyone to enjoy whilst on the Island (Page 10)

Looking for a place to stay ?

check out our definitive guide to accommodation on the Island from hotels to farmhouses (Page 38)

Looking for a holiday home ?

there is a wide range of property available to purchase on Gozo, from cheap apartments to lavish villas, (Page 55)

Looking to tie the knot ?

look no further than Gozo, there are some excellent venues to choose from (Page 50)

Looking to live like a local ?

Gozo has a thriving cottage industry, check out what the locals eat and drink (Page 52) Editors Top Ten 1.Snorkelling at the Blue Lagoon (Comino) 2.Watching the world go by at Tapies Bar, Victoria 3.Swimming at Mgarr IX-Xini followed by lunch 4.St George’s Basilica 5.The Salt Pans 6.Dwerja – The Inland Sea 7.The Citadel – Victoria 8.Ramla Bay 9.A Platter of Gozitan Anti-Pasti 10.A Village Festival To receive a free copy of next years edition of MyGozo, email your address to info@mygozo.com To advertise in the next edition please email us at the email above

Merħba

issue

ello, and welcome or Merhba as the Gozitans say, to the first edition of mygozo, your definitive guide to everything you need to know about this beautiful Island. The aim of this guide is to provide useful information to help make your stay more enjoyable. If this is your first visit to Gozo, then the next week or two should hold some real treats in store, if you are a returning visitor then welcome home. For an Island that measures only 10 miles x 5 miles, Gozo has plenty to offer everyone, whether you enjoy relaxing on a beach, if you are culture vulture or an adrenalin junkie, Gozo really does have it all. For the foodies amongst you the Island offers some fantastic restaurants, offering high quality food at great prices, and for wine lovers Gozo produces some excellent wine. About Me My name is Mark Duffy and I have been a regular visitor to Gozo for the past 25 years and every year I find something new to explore or do, the warmth of the Gozitan people is a delight and you cannot fail to fall in love with the Island and it’s people. I first visited the Island of Gozo in 1987 when my parents, who had holidayed in Malta for years, decided to make the short hop across the Gozo Channel and we haven’t looked back since. I have fond child hood memories of spending hours in the sea at Xlendi Bay, snorkelling at Mgarr IX Xini and BBQs at Hondoq Bay, and I am looking forward to bringing my children to Gozo so that they can experience this wonderful place.

‘’The Warmth of the Gozitan people is a delight’

Happy Holidays

Mark Duffy, Editor info@mygozo.com www.mygozo.com mygozo magazine 6

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History Of Gozo

Gozo (Ghawdex) in Maltese has been inhabited since 5000 BC, when farmers from nearby Sicily crossed the sea to the island. Due to similar pottery found in both places from the Ghar Dalam phase, it has been suggested that the first colonists were specifically from the area of Agrigento; however, it is not known exactly which part of Sicily the farmers came from. The early inhabitants from across the water were thought to have lived in caves on the outskirts of San-Lawrenz. Gozo was an important place for cultural evolution and during the neolithic period the Ggantija temples were built; they are the world's oldest free-standing structures, as well as the world's oldest religious structures. Ggantija is Maltese for "belonging to the giants", according to Gozitan folklore the temples were built by giants. Another important Maltese archaeological site in Gozo, which dates back to the neolithic period, is the Xaghra Stone Circle. Also, native tradition and certain ancient Greek historians (notably Euhemerus and Callimachus) maintain that Gozo is in fact the island Homer described as Ogygia, home of the nymph Calypso. In July 1551 Ottomans under Turgut Reis and Sinan Pasha invaded and ravaged Gozo and enslaved most of its inhabitants, about 5000 people, bringing them to Tarhuna Wa Msalata in Libya, their departure port in Gozo was Mgarr ix-Xini. The island of Gozo was repopulated between 1565 and 1580 by people from mainland Malta, undertaken by the Knights of Malta. The history of Gozo is strongly coupled with the history of Malta, since Gozo has been governed by Malta throughout history, with the brief exception of a period of autonomy granted to Gozo by Napoleon after his conquest of Malta, between 28 October 1798 and 5 September 1800. The Gozo Civic Council was set up as a statutory local Government in the island of Gozo on 14 April 1961, the first experiment in civil local government in Malta since the French occupation of 1798-1800. The law authorised the Council to raise taxes, although it never actually made use of this power. In 1971 the Labour Party was voted into office. As its support in Gozo was weak and it favoured a more centralised administration it proposed a referendum on the abolishment of the Council putting emphasis on the unpopular possibility of it raising taxes. In the Gozo Civic Council referendum, 1973, the overwhelming majority of voters (76.97%) voted for the abolition of the Gozo Civic Council. In the mid-1980s attempts were made to set up a Gozo committee, chaired by the Prime Minister and with the Gozitan Members of Parliament as members. However, it was only in 1987 that the Ministry of Gozo was set up (demoted to a Parliamentary Secretariat between 1996 and 1998). Local government in the Gozitan localities was restored with the introduction of Local councils in 1993 with Gozo having 14 councils. mygozo magazine 8

Culture Vulture

Experience the very best of Gozo’s Museums

Of Course great weather and plentiful beaches, such as Ramla Bay, should be enough to keep you busy during your stay on the Island of Gozo, but the Island has lots of things to do and see, plus a lively events calendar to help make your stay unforgettable. You could do your sightseeing on board one of the various open top sightseeing bus’s that now operate around the Island, or you can set off on foot to explore everything it has to offer. Probably the best place to start is in the capital, Victoria, and no better place to explore is the Citadel. The Citadel houses several museums that offer a look back on Gozo of yester year. For more information about the history of the Citadel please see page 12. Museums Within the Citadel Museum of Archaeology The museum of archaeology is housed in the walls of the citadel within a 17th century building that served as a majestic town hall during the period of the Knights of St John. Exhibits on show include pieces from the Neolithic, Temple and Bronze age including relics from the Ggantija temples.

Old Prison The old prison dates back to the 15th century when the Knights of St John occupied the island. After the Knights were expelled from the Island the prison fell into disrepair, however a new prison was built and was still housing prisoners up until 1962. The walls of the cells and corridors in the old prison are covered with graffiti. It is considered as the largest collection of historical graffiti in one single place on the Maltese Islands. Cittadella ticket (Gozo Museum of Archaeology, Old Prison, Natural Science Museum + Folklore Museum) Adults (18-59 yrs) 8.00, Students (12-17 yrs) & senior citizens (60+) 5.00, Children (6-11 yrs) 4.00 Opening Hours: MON to SUN: 9.00am to 5.00pm *Closed: 24, 25 & 31 December, 1 January, Good Friday Telephone: 21565988 Gozo 360 located at the Citadel Cinema offers a stunning sound and vision experience which brings the Island to life on the big screen. The show is available in 9 different languages and is shown every 30 mins between 10am - 15.00pm Mon-Sat and between 10am and 13pm on public holidays. Sundays on request. Adults 4.10, Children 2.00, Students, 2.35.

Folklore Museum The Folklore museum is housed in a series of medieval houses dating back to the 15th century. The museum holds a wide range of exhibits showcasing Gozo from a by-gone age and traditional methods used by the rural community. Natural Science Museum The natural science museum is located just behind the law courts and showcases a variety of collections, including fossils, Mineralogy, Marine Life, Botany, Ornithology and Insects.

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Ta’Kola Windmill

Museum of Toys

Ta’ Kola Windmill is one of the few surviving windmills on the Maltese Islands. Located in the Village of Xaghra its origin goes back to 1725 at the hands of Manoel Foundation. Manoel Foundation charged itself with building up windmills to sustain the flour demand of the increasing population of Malta and Gozo. Ta’ Kola Windmill is a tangible example of rural economy and domestic Gozitan life during past centuries. You can find the original milling mechanism, miller’s tools, as well as the blacksmith’s and carpenter’s workshop. Address: - Bambina Street , Xaghra Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday 09.00am–17.00pm. (Last admission 16.30). Closed on 24, 25, 31 December, 1 January and Good Friday The Maritime Museum in Nadur is privately owned and has many rare and priceless exhibits, including authenticated timber from Lord Nelson’s ship, HMS Victory, the first US warship, Constitution, and one of Lord Mountbatten’s gold epaulettes. The collection was accumulated by Kelinu Grima, who spent 65 years gathering the maritime memorabilia. The museum covers three centuries of seafaring, from the elegant sailing ships of the past to more recent famous battleships. The collection includes models, uniforms, photographs and vessel parts, as well as over 300 vessel crests adorning the museum walls. Address: Parish Priest Street, Nadur Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday: 9.00am- 4.45pm Telephone: 21565226/ 21551649 The Pomzkizillious Toy Museum is the most well-known toy museum in Malta. It was created in the 1970s and belongs to a British couple who decided to exhibit their own toy collection, including outstanding antiques and unique items, in this small private museum. You can see traditional games of all types and materials from Malta and all over Europe, as well as learning about the history of toys on the island and their manufacturing process. Address: 10 Gnien Xible Street, Xaghra. Opening Hours: June /end of Sept :10.30am-1.00pm & 4pm6pm Mon - Sat The Gharb Folklore Museum is a privately-owned museum in the village’s main square and depicts daily life in Gozo of yester year. The museum is a showcase of traditional life and includes the printing press used for Gozo’s first newspaper plus a collection of old tools and clothes Address: - 99 Pjazza il-Knisja, Gharb Opening Hours: Mon to Sat: 9.00a.m. - 4.00 p.m.; Sunday: 9.00 am - 1.00 p.m

Gharb Folklore Museum

Maritime Museum

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NATURAL BEAUTY

Dwejra All visitors, past and present, cannot fail to be amazed by the natural beauty that is on offer at Dwejra, visitors are quite literally spoilt for choice with an array of geological master pieces dominating the landscape. The first thing you will notice as you are making your way down into Dwejra is the Azure Window, a spectacular natural rock formation featuring a natural arch. The stunning geography of the area was created hundreds of years ago when two limestone caves collapsed. It is easy to understand why film producers have produced several blockbuster movies on the site. For the divers amongst our readers there is a fantastic dive site called the Blue hole which can be found just in front of the Azure Window. The Blue Hole has been voted into the top ten European Dive sites and it is easy to understand why it is a favourite amongst divers. The hole consists of an underwater arch that once navigated leads divers into the open sea. The Inland Sea, found to the right of the Azure Window is a beautiful natural lagoon, popular with swimmers and divers a like, a natural man made tunnel leads to the open sea and during the summer months it is possible to take a trip on one of the many fishing boats through the tunnel into the open sea. At time of printing a 15 minute boat ride cost €3.50. There is a sea-front café that serves snacks and drinks and the most wonderful homemade chips. The Inland Sea is a great spot for some leisurely swimming but take care when entering the water as it can be quite rocky, water-shoes are advised. Don’t forget to bring your snorkel and flippers. As you leave the Inland Sea and head back towards the car park you will find the Chapel of St Anne, one of the newest chapels built on the Island, dating back to 1963. The feast of St Anne is celebrated on the 26th July. In front of the Azure Window you will notice a large rock located just off the mainland. This is called Fungus rock and legend has it that the plants grown on it hold special medicinal powers. The Knights Hospitaller apparently discovered the fungus and used it as a styptic dressing for wounds and a cure for dysentery. The Knights so prized it that they often gave gifts of Malta Fungus to distinguished noblemen and visitors to the Maltese islands. Grand Master Pinto decreed the rock out of bounds in 1746; trespassers risked a three-year spell as

oarsmen in the Knights' galleys. He posted a permanent guard there and even built a precarious cable-car basket from the rock to the mainland, 50 metres away. He also ordered the sides smoothed to remove handholds. The number 302 bus runs between Dwejra and Ramla Bay (via Victoria) on an hourly basis between 05.39am and 22.39pm The Ggantija temples, a world heritage site, are found south of the Village of Xaghra. Ggantija, meaning giant in Maltese is a neolithic, megolothic temple complex dating back to c3600-2500 BC, making the temples more than 5500 years old. The temples were possibly the site of a Fertility cult; archeologists believe that the numerous figurines and statues found on site are connected with that cult. According to local Gozitan folklore, a giantess built these temples and used them as places of worship. Two temples make up the site, the southerly one is the larger, more older site and is in a better state than the northerly one. The temples are built in the typical clover-leaf shape, with inner facing blocks marking the shape which was then filled in with rubble. This led to the construction of a series of semi-circular apses connected with a central passage. Archaeologists believe that the apses were originally covered by roofing. The structures are all the more impressive for having been constructed at a time when no metal tools were available to the natives of the Maltese islands, and when the wheel had not yet been introduced. Small, spherical stones have been discovered. They are believed to have been used as ball bearings to transport the enormous stone blocks required for the temples' construction. Ggantija is run by Heritage Malta, www.heritagemalta.org and Entry to the temples costs €5 for adults, €3.50 for 12-17 year olds and €2.50 for OAP’s. For the entry fee visitors also have access to Ta’Kola windmill located in Xaghra (see page 21) The number 322 bus operates between Marsalforn and Mgarr via Xaghra between 05.10am and 22.25 every 1.5 hours. The number 307 operates every hour between Kercem and Xaghra (via Victoria) between 05.47am and 22.47pm.

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Calypso’s Cave

Ggantija Temples

Calypso’s Cave is found a short distance from the Village of Xaghra and over looks the golden sands of Ramla Bay. The cave is named after the nymph Calypso. In the story ‘The Odyssey’, Odysseus was kept as a prisoner of love for seven years by the nymph Calypso, Calypso lived on an Island called Ogygia and it is believed that the Island being referred to as Ogygia was in fact Gozo. The view of Ramla Bay from Calypso Cave is nothing short of spectacular and is worth visiting for this alone. Ninus Cave is a fabulous cave with stalactites and stalagmites located at the back of a private house on 15 January Street in Xaghra. The cave was discovered in 1888 by Joseph Rapa. Although located in a private dwelling the cave is open to visitors who are shown around by a family member. Open daily between 8am and 18:00pm. Not too far from Ninus Cave you will find Xerri’s Grotto, an underground cave discovered in 1924 by the owners Grandfather who discovered the cave whilst digging a well. Further caves were found whilst the family were building an air raid shelter during the 2nd world war. Visitors will be able to see stalacite and stalagmite formations including some interesting speleothems in the form of an elephants ear’s, a tortoise and a giraffe. Xerri’s Grotto can be found on Xerri Street. Opening hours, Mon to Sat, 09.00am to 18.00pm, entrance fee is €2.50. For the more active people amongst our readers and for those who enjoy a leisurely stroll a visit to Ta’Cenc and the Sanap Cliffs offer some wonderful coastal walks. The Ta’Cenc cliffs are the highest in Gozo at some 150m above sea level, the views from the cliffs are amazing, bring your camera, a bottle of water and put on plenty of sun cream. We recommend starting your walk at the village of Sannat, head south past the left hand side of the Church and follow signs for the Hotel Ta’Cenc, take the country track to the south and then proceed to the west where the cliffs will take you to Mgarr Ix-Xini.

Ninus Cave

Ta Cenc Cliffs Salt Pans

Sea-Salt has been produced in Gozo for hundreds of years and it is a cottage industry that has been passed down by families throughout the generations. The Gozo Salt Pans are found to the North of the Island just west of Marsalforn past Obajar Bay. These ancient salt pans are still worked by the locals during the summer, a simple process, high tides fill the salt pans; the sun evaporates the water leaving salt. The salt is then stored and processed within Caves that have been carved into the rocks. The salt can be purchased directly from the producer and you certainly won’t get any fresher salt than from here. Although not a natural effect, on the road between Victoria and Gharb you will find a stunning Old Viaduct that was used to carry water from the sea to Victoria. Some of the Viadcuct still remains and it forms a key part in Gozo’s sky line.

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Church Life

Xewkija

Ta Pinu

Citadella Gozo is blessed with 22 churches in total, some dating back as far as the 15th century. Where ever you go on Gozo there is a church waiting around the corner and their beauty is not to be ignored. They are very much the focal point of Village life and the annual festa’s honouring the Church’s Patron Saint is an exciting time for Gozitans and tourists. The Citadella, in Victoria was built between 1697 and 1711 sits within the fortress of the Citadel. The church’s feast is celebrated on the 15th August each year and is dedicated to the assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Santa Maria, this is one of the biggest feasts held on the Island. It is a baroque Cathedral designed by Lorenzo Gafà, the Maltese architect who also built the Cathedral of Mdina. It is said that it lies on the site where a Roman temple dedicated to Juno once stood. It is most famous for the remarkable trompe l'oeil painting on its ceiling, which depicts the interior of a dome that was never built. Ta’Pinu The Basilica of Ta’Pinu is Malta and Gozos most popular place of pilgrimage. Legend has it that prayers said in the chapel saved Gozo from the plague. Numerous miracles and acts of God have been manifested at the Basilica. The origins of the Shrine of Our Lady of Ta' Pinu are relatively unknown.

St George’s Basilica

In 1575 the apostolic visitor Pietro Duzina was delegated by Pope Gregory XII to visit the Maltese Islands. In his pastoral visit to the church, he found that it was in a very bad state and he ordered the Church to be closed and demolished. When demolition began the workman broke his arm while striking the first blow. This was taken as an omen that the chapel should not be demolished. The church was the only chapel on the island to survive Duzina's decree ordering the demolition of other similar chapels. Pinu Gauci became the procurator of the church in 1598 and its name was changed from "Of the Gentile" to "Ta` Pinu", meaning "Of Philip". In 1611 Gauci offered money for its restoration. It was rebuilt, with a stone altar erected and investments for liturgical services provided. Gauci also commissioned the painting of the Assumption of Our Lady for the main altar. This was done in 1619 by Amadeo Perugino. In 1883, Karmni Grima was walking past the now run down church and heard a voice asking her to recite three Hail Marys'. Over the following years miracles were attributed to the grace of Our Lady of The Assumption to whom the church was dedicated. The works for the new church began on 30 May 1922, to be consecrated on 31 August 1932. It was built in a neo-romantic style. Inside the church there are 6 mosaics, 76 colored windows and many ex-voto. The bell tower is 61 metres high. Pope John Paul II celebrated mass on the parvis of the shrine during his visit to the island of Gozo on 26 May 1990.

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Festa time. A trip to Gozo would not be complete without visiting one of the Village Festivals that are held throughout the summer months. Each Town/Village holds an Annual Festa dedicated to their Patro Saint, Victoria is lucky enough to have two, The Feast of St George and the Feast of Santa Maria. There is fierece rivalry between the two Victoria feast and they go to great lengths to produce the biggest and best fireworks, and play some jokes on each other along the way. If you are lucky enough to be on Gozo on the 15th August, Victoria turns into one huge party for the day/night. The 15th is a public holiday on which The feast of Santa Marija, also known as the feast of the Assumption is celebrated, and it is viewed as many to be the height of the summer season of religious Festas. Thousands of Maltese make the short ferry journey across to join in the celebrations with Gozitans and Holiday Makers a like. The day starts with Horse Racing along the streets of Victoria, ending with a stunning street procession and some of the best firework displays you will ever see.

Gozo Feast Calendar - 2012 22-May 03-Jun 10-Jun 17-Jun 22-Jun 24-Jun 29-Jun 01-Jul 07-Jul 15-Jul 16-Jul 22-Jul 05-Aug 12-Aug 15-Aug 19-Aug 26-Aug 02-Sep 02-Sep 08-Sep 16-Sep 14-Oct 21-Oct On 18 April 2010, when visiting Malta, Pope Benedict XVI donated and placed a Golden Rose in front of the devotional image of Our Lady Of Ta' Pinu which was brought over from Gozo to Malta for this special occasion. The Pope invited everybody to "Pray to Her under the Title Queen of the Family" St George’s Basilica St George’s Basilica situated in Victoria is a beautiful church, found in St George’s Square it was originally built in the 1670s. A new façade was built in 1818 due to damage done during an earthquake. The dome and the aisles are of recent construction (1930s and 1940s). There are several works of art in the church which include the painting of the dome and ceiling by Gian Battista Conti of Rome and other paintings and sculptures by Mattia Preti, Giuseppe d'Arena, Stefano Erardi, Alessio Erardi, Francesco V. Zahra, Giuseppe Calì, and contemporary Alfred Camilleri Cauchi and John L. Grima. The titular statue of St George was carved from solid wood by Pietro Paolo Azzopardi in 1838 and is the first titular statue on the island. The area over which the church is built is of considerable archaeological interest, with evidence of activity dating back to at least to the Roman period. The parish celebrates two feasts during the year: 23 April, the official date celebrating the death of the martyr, and the third Sunday of July, when the

St. Paul, Munxar St. Anthony, Ghajnsielem Corpus Christi, Ghasri Sacred Heart of Jesus, Fontana Our Lady of Pinu, Ta’ Pinu St. John the Baptist, Xewkija St. Peter and St. Paul, Nadur The Visitation, Gharb Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Kercem St George, Victoria Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Victoria St. Margaret, Sannat St. Joseph, Qala St. Laurence, San Lawrenz The Assm of Our Lady, Victoria The Assm of Our Lady, Zebbug Our Lady of Loreto, Ghajnsielem St Gregory, Kercem Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Xlendi The Nativity of Our Lady, Xaghra Our Lady of Graces, Victoria Patronage of the B. V. Mary, Ghasri Jesus of Nazareth, Xaghra

solemn festivities in honor of Gozo's patron saint are held. Xewkija Rotunda The village of Xewkija is dominated by its Rotunda Parish Church, dedicated to St John the Baptist. It became the first parish outside Victoria on 27 November 1678. The church was initially built thanks to Bishop Michael Molina, who after visiting Xewkija decided that the local villagers deserved at better place to pray and attend mass. The church is capable of housing 3000 people, the population of the Village. The church is the largest on Gozo and was built by Maltese stone and was designed by Josepth D’Amato. The current church was completed in 1952 and replaced an older Church that occupied the site. The Feast is celebrated on the 24th June each year. The rotunda dome is 75 metres high making it one of the largest in Europe. Santa Marija Chapel - Comino The Santa Marija Chapel on Comino dates back to 1618 and is found overlooking a bay that shares the same name. It’s origins date back to the 13th century when an existance of a chapel on the location was recorded on a shipping navigational map. Local farmers living on Comino dedicated the church to the return of the Blessed Virgin Mary from Egypt. The feast is celebrated on the 24th of July.

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Experience The Best of Gozoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurants The Way to the real Gozo is through its stomach, Sara Phillips takes a foodie tour around the Island

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RECOMMENDED DINING GUIDE Starting Point: Mgarr For Fresh Seafood and a view to die for

to deliver when it comes to offering high quality restaurants. The capital has some excellent restaurants that are a must visit on your trip to the Island. Take yourself back in time and while away a couple of As the ferry slowly makes its way into hours in the historic building that houses Mgarr harbour, the smell from the The Restaurant, La Stanza, located in a old port-side restaurants really gets the taste building that used to serve as part of the buds flowing and you just want to get off Citadel and was built by the Knights of St the ferry and dive straight into a fresh-sea John. La Stanza is full of character and the food platter, Mgarr really is the definition view from the terrace offers an of fresh fish. Husband and wife team Leli unobstructed view of the Citadel. Inside and Jane Buttigieg have been serving high the restaurant you will find romantic quality food to locals and tourists alike at enclaves and an historic inner terrace their restaurant Tmun, for the past 25 where lunch and dinner are served. The years. Aided by their son Paul, Tmun sets menu is very much traditional with a high standards on the Gozitan food scene, modern twist and the hosts Stephan and ideally situated on the water’s edge, the Melissa have created a warm and friendly team at Tmun do not rest on their laurels feel to the place. The Octopus Carpaccio and constantly strive to improve the starter has a great kick to it and the variety of food they offer. The famous linguini with sea-urchin sauce is both Bouillabaisse soup for two is a must and unusual and delightful at the same time. If contains no less than 7 different varieties you find yourself dining with a fellow of fish. The restaurants Asian cut pan fried seafood lover, the seafood platter for two local calamari has an exotic twist to it and is a must. La Stanza prides itself on its the team have a wide array of daily deserts and a real treat lies in store for specials, including Sushi the last time I those with a sweet tooth. The restaurant visited. Vegetarians are well catered for has an extensive wine list, including wine with a fantastic choice of fresh local pasta from the family vineyard in Victoria. (56, and for meat lovers the herb crusted Irish Triq L-Imghallem, Victoria, +356 2155 Frenched rack of lamb comes with all of 8047). Nestled in a corner of Independthe trimmings. (Martinu Garces Street, ence Square you will find IT-Tokk, a Mgarr; +356 2156 6276). A few paces up restaurant that offers a great, well shaded the hill, L'Ankra, recently taken over by the terrace that overlooks the market below energetic pairing of Gino and John Paul, and also has commanding views of the continues to serve up a fine dining Citadel, a great spot both day and night. experience. Their menu is rich and has an IT-Tokk serves an excellent local Rabbit excellent local feel to it, specialities include stew, a staple dish on the Island, and the a delightful sea-food risotto, cooked to chef has the recipe down to a tee. The fish perfection. The Beef Carpaccio is tender soup is also hearty and delicious and goes and it is obvious that only the finest cuts of well with a slice or two of Gozitan bread. beef are used in its preparation and for Vanessa and her team give everyone a those looking for a taste of Gozo the warm welcome and service is quick and starter platter of local meats, including efficient. (IT-Tokk, Independence Square, wild boar salami is a must. Pasta lovers are Victoria, +356 2155 1213). Just behind spoilt with a truffle ravioli that is well Independence Square you will find a balanced and light. Make sure you leave quintessential Gozitan Square which is some room for the deserts, homemade home to St George’s Basilica as well as two cheesecakes are the order of the day. (11, excellent Café bars that serve top quality Shore Street, Mgarr; +356 2155 5656). Gozitan dishes and snacks, Grapes Wine Bar and The Piazza Cafe. Both Grapes and The Piazza are owned by the delightNext Stop: Victoria owner, Dione, who has created a varied Foodie Heaven in the Capital ful day time menu including Gozitan Sandwiches, excellent meat and fish pasta The Island's Capital, Victoria, does not fail

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dishes and grilled calamari. If you are lucky you may even get to see a wedding at St George's Basilica unfold in front of your eyes. (St George's Square, Victoria, +356 7947 3504). Head up the hill and into the Citadel, take the steps to the left of the court house, turn right and you will find Café San Martino, a new edition to the Gozitan landscape, the café/restaurant has a great roof terrace that offers superb views of the Island. The menu offers typical Gozitan dishes including fresh salads and anti pasti plates with local Gozitan cheese's and meats and which is best served with a glass of local wine. The sunset views are second to none. For a red meat blow-out, a visit to Patrick's Tmun is a must. Patrick’s Lounge and Steakhouse is a multiple award winning restaurant that sets the standard in Malta and Gozo. Chef Patron, Patrick, has quietly built an establishment driven by a refined talent and a clear notion of style that stretches far beyond the sanctuary of his formidable kitchen. With a knack of staying at the forefront of the restaurant scene, Patrick’s consistently delivers freshness, yet confidence inspiring familiarity, in his cuisine and jaw dropping wine cellar. Steak is the house speciality and pride is taken in carefully seIecting perfectly marbeled prime cuts and aged beef. Other specials sometimes include impressive chateaubriand for two, sumptuous Porterhouse Steaks, flavour rich USDA aged beef & delicate Kobe beef (Europe Street, Victoria, +356 2156 6667), www.patrickstmun.com. Lovers of Chinese food won't be disappointed; Victoria is home to Fu Hua, one of the original Chinese restaurants on the Island. Fu Hua also provides a take-away service (Fortunato Mizzi Street, Victoria, +356 2156 4666).

Next Stop: Xlendi Waterfront Dining You could spend two weeks in Xlendi and still not have time to eat in every one of the restaurants found in this pretty seaside village. Take a stroll along the quayside to the left of the bay as if you are looking out to sea, climb a few steps and you will arrive at IC Cima. This restaurant has been going strong in Xlendi for two decades now and its rooftop terrace is a must, the views down on Xlendi and the open sea are commanding and if you arrive early enough you will have the privilege of eating your meal whilst seeing the sun set. The menu offers a mix of Mediterranean and Gozitan and the food served is always of the highest quality. (St Simon St, Xlendi, +356 21558407). Back down in the bay, The Moby Dick serves fantastic steaks and also has a full Chinese Menu as well, the sizzling chilli chicken comes highly recommended, and there is also a full range of pizzas and pasta dishes available. Look out for the daily specials and wine of the week. (Marina St, Xlendi, +356 21561518). A little further along from the Moby Dick you will find one of the newest arrivals on the Xlendi foodie scene, The Boat House. As the name suggests, this restaurant is housed within an old converted boathouse and is full of character, it has an almost New England feel to it. Although The Boat House is new, the owners are seasoned restaurateurs

and they certainly know how to put together a menu and please their customers. In 2012 The Boat House was awarded one of the top 40 restaurants in the Maltese Islands by the The Definitive (ly) Good Guide. Specialities include fresh fish and seafood, live lobsters and shellfish, suckling pig and Argentinean and Irish beef. A vast wine cellar of over 200 different wines helps to ease your dinner down. (Marina St, Xlendi, +356 21569153). Two doors away from The Boat House is a gem of a restaurant called Ta’Karolina. Tucked away in the corner of the bay, the restaurant is named after the cave it sits in front of. This restaurant is busy both day and night and it is easy to understand why. Joseph and his team run a well oiled machine and the kitchen consistently serve dishes of the highest quality. Sea-food is the order of the day here, the fisherman literally anchor right in front of the restaurants doors and next to the restaurant you will find fisherman’s huts where the nets are fixed after a tough day at sea. Ta’Karolina

also serves up fantastic fresh pasta and meat dishes. (Marina St, Xlendi, +356 21559675). An extremely welcome addition to not only the Xlendi food scene, but also the Gozitan dining scene is the Sapana Indian restaurant. Gozo hasn’t had an Indian restaurant for over 20 years, but it has been worth waiting for. The team at Sapana know what a curry experience is all about and the menu serves up all of the Indian classics. The menu lives up to its expectations and the guys here certainly know their curries. The mixed starter platter is a must. (Rabat Rd, Xlendi, +356 21562100). Not all of the best restaurants are necessarily found on the sea-front, C-Seven serves an excellent variety of Mediterranean and local dishes and has daily specials including seafood Lasagne the last time we were there. If I could choose one dish from their starter, I would opt for the garlic mushrooms in a creamy but subtle sauce which are among the best I have tried. C-Seven also serve fresh fish, pasta and meat dishes as well as a good Pizza menu. If you are in hurry then...

mygozo magazine 18

their sister snack bar serves good burgers and the bar also serves excellent Crepes, just like they are made in France. The pub section to the restaurant has a cracking cocktail list and cocktail maestro jack serves up a mean Mojito. (Rabat Rd, Xlendi, +356 27012242).

Next Stop – Xaghra Sleepy Gozitan Village Walk into the Village Square in Xaghra and you could be walking back in time 100 years. Xaghra is one of the most beautiful villages on the Island and is also home to some quality restaurants. Breeze Restaurant, located on the square has been operating for two years and has built up a strong flow of loyal customers. The restaurant is family run and Rita and George, the proprietors, have worked hard to create an imaginative menu. The Mediterranean cuisine and vegetarian menu offer salads, fresh pasta, meats including duck, quails and local rabbit. The restaurant serve daily caught fresh fish, Gozitan Delicacies and Traditional food as well as Pizza. The black tagliatelle with seafood comes highly recommended. Nothing is too much of a problem for these guys and if there is something that you want that isn’t on the menu then the team will do their best to prepare something to taste. The Breeze menu is complemented by a large selection of local and foreign wines. Breeze is open every day for lunch and dinner but closed on Wednesday during winter months. (Victory Square, Xaghra, +356 21553044). Situated in between Victoria and Marsalforn, you will find Ta’Frenc, one of the most well known restaurants on the Maltese Islands and has won too many awards to mention. Ta’Frenc is an institution for real foodies who are looking for a fine dining experience and executive chef Mario Schembri and his team do not fail to deliver. Ta’Frenc is housed in an authentic old farmhouse and diners have the choice of dining in their own private dining room or on the beautiful terrace. As you walk into the restaurant you may notice a sweet smell in the air, this is in fact the new herb garden where both herbs and flowers are grown organically and used throughout the menu. The menu has a classic French feel to it and includes an a la carte menu as well as various market menus that offer very good value. The fish soup is a must as is the Chateaubriand, if you have room for desert I highly recommend the Crepes Suzette, flamed

at the table no less. Ta’Frenc is closed on Tuesdays. (Marsalforn Rd, Xaghra, +356 21553888). Located on the main sqaure in Xaghra, Rubble Bar/Restaurant, has been one of the main stays of the Xaghra food scene for a long time. Local regulars mix with tourists who are drawn to the bar for it’s relaxed atmosphere and a place where you can catch up with friends. The terrace has great views of the square and inside, the bar has an oldie worldie feel to it where you can feel a world away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Don’t be fooled by the word bar in the name, Rubble serves up delicious plates of local Gozitan delicacies, aswell as excellent pasta, meat and fish dishes. If you are not feeling peckish then the bar serves great cocktails and has a large selction of wines available. The owner Audrey, will make you feel at home and service is always with a smile. Don’t be surprised if you are on your own and a strtanger strikes up a conversation with you, it’s that kind of place where people are made to feel welcome. (Victory Square, Xaghrra, +356 21563758)

Next Stop: Marsalforn Seaside Delight Marsalforn is littered with restaurants and a little insider knowledge is required to help you make an informed decision. Il Kartell, with its prime location in the corner of the bay, is a must visit on a trip to Marsalforn. Testament to Il Kartells reputation is that you will be fighting with local Gozitans and Maltese who come over for the weekend for a table, something which always a good sign in a restaurant. Owner Philip Spiteri, has carried on the traditional methods he learnt from his late Mother, Carmen. The lampuki pie, with the home-made sundried tomato paste is heavenly and is best served with a bottle of house wine from their own vine-yard, Ta’Mena. The house specialities change on a regular basis, fish comes high on the menu, and why not, you can literally dip your toes into the water from your table. The menu has a great anti-pasti platter and all of the ingredients have been hand made over at the estate. (Marina St, Marsalforn, +356 21556918). For a taste of real Gozitan cuisine, head to Menqa L’Antika. Chef and owner Gordon Camilerri, has created a wonderful ‘Gozitan’ menu that

RECOMMENDED DINING GUIDE encompasses the best that the Island has to offer from a food perspective. The restaurants motto is ‘’evoking memories of Gozo’s earliest gastronomy and Gordon takes dinners back to his childhood with an array of dishes that are both authentic and unique to Gozo. The main ingredient that makes Menqa stand out is its attention to detail. For a starter we recommend the Gozo cheese, bacon & crusty bread kebabs with a sundried tomato dressing and for main the stuffed boned quail in a carob syrup infused jus. (Marina St, Marsalforn, +356 27300309).

Last Stop: Dwejra The Inland Sea Dwejra is one of the most beautiful spots on the Island and until recently did not have a restaurant of note. All that has now changed with the arrival of The Azure Window, which opened its doors in 2011. The restaurant has a commanding presence, towering over the Inland Sea below and diners are given an extra special dining experience and a view to die for. The food served up doesn’t fail to deliver and diners can choose between fresh fish, pasta, and meat dishes with a Mediterranean and local twist. The restaurant also serves as a wine bar and is a great place to enjoy a sun downer or two. (Pjazza Dwejra, The Inland Sea, San Lawrenz, +356 21566560) .

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Victoria

Victoria,Gozo’s Capital City, otherwise known as Rabat to the locals, is a hustling, bustling City with a very busy feel to it during the day. Victoria wakes up around 6am when the local work force head for work and pop into the numerous bars for a coffee and Pastizzi, a simple, but delightful Gozitan pastry normally made of Cheese or Pea. One of the busiest bars is Tapie’s Bar in San Francisk Square, a visit to Gozo wouldn’t be complete without a visit to this truly local bar where you can sit outside and watch the world go about their daily business.

skyline. The Citadella is an historic fortified city. The Citadella is on Malta's tentative list of future World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, who describe it as a small fortified town. The area is known to have been first fortified during the Bronze Age approximately around 1500 BC. It was later developed by the Phoenicians and continued development until, by Roman times, it had become a complex Acropolis. Up until the 18th Century it was the only fortified refuge against attack for the inhabitants of the island.

Shopping

The northern side of the Citadel dates back to the period of the Crown of Aragon, while the southern flank, overlooking Victoria, was re-constructed between 1599 and 1603 by the Knights of St. John. The massive defensive stone walls of the fortifications which rise above the town and were built by the Knights to protect the village communities from foraging corsairs attempting to take slaves and threatening invasion of Moslem forces fighting Christendom. In 1551 a small Turkish force under Dragut attacked the Citadel, which succumbed with little resistance. Those taking refuge within its walls were taken as slaves and the castle reduced to ruins.

Most of Gozo’s shopping is done in Victoria and there are three excellent shopping arcades, two found at the lower end of Republic Street and one at the upper end. The Duke Plaza, the newest plaza in Gozo, houses a large supermarket where you can buy everything from fresh fish to fishing rods, as well as fashion shops, restaurants, bars and a Spa which has an in-door swimming pool. The Arkadia Centre, a little further down from the Duke also has a large supermarket, pharmacy, Mc Donalds and numerous UK High Street fashion shops. The original shopping arcade is located at the top end of Republic Street and has a large supermarket selling all essential goods. A daily market takes place in Independence Square, also known as It-Tokk, where you can buy anything from Sea-Bass to Sun Hats. For handcrafted jewellery we recommend visiting Prickly Pear Designs who make their own pieces of jewellery as well as featuring work from local and international designers. See www.ppdjewellery.com for further details or visit their shop at 96 Triq San Gorg . Just behind Independence Square you will find St George’s Square which is home to a great shop called Organika which sells lots of locally produced products, arts and crafts including art by Gozitan artists, fairtrade gifts and organic products as the name would suggest. For more local products head to Jimmy’s shop on Independence Square. Food and Drink For real foodies Victoria has plenty to offer, ranging from snacks to gourmet meals cooked by highly acclaimed chefs. For a lunch during the day we recommend Grapes Bar and Piazza Cafe in St George’s Square, and Cafe San Martino in the Citadel, all of which offer the best of Gozo’s natural produce. For more . For evening dining we recommend La Stanza, Patricks Tmun and IT Tokk and FU Hua. Sightseeing A visit to Victoria, and Gozo, would not be complete without a visit to the Citadel which dominates the capitals

Within its walls lies a fine 17th century baroque Cathedral designed by Lorenzo Gafà, the Maltese architect who also built the Cathedral of Mdina. It is said that it lies on the site where a Roman temple dedicated to Juno once stood. It is most famous for the remarkable trompe l'oeil painting on its ceiling, which depicts the interior of a dome that was never built. Villa Rundle Gardens offer a green space within the heart of the City for Gozitans and Tourists a like to relax in a peaceful environment. The gardens are located next to the Duke Shopping Centre and they are named after the British General, Leslie Rundle. The gardens house exotic plants and trees from around the world and during Festa time it is home to competitions such as vegetable growing contests. Entertainment Victoria, and Gozo, are lucky to have two theatres, The Astra Theatre and The Aurora Opera House, both of which put on several Operas throughout the year, a popular event in the Gozitan cultural calender. Both are found on Republic Street. See individual theatres for show dates etc. For film buffs Victoria has a cinema that shows all Hollywood blockbusters, The Citadel Cinema, please see www.citadelcinema.com for screening times. Throughout the year the Gozo film club screen international films in the

grounds of the Citadel, see www.gozofilmclub.com for further details. On the weekend of May 18-19-20, The Ministry for Gozo is holding a weekend long festival of arts, culture and entertainment called Lejlet Lapsi - Notte Gozitana, this will be taking place around the streets and sqaures of Victoria. Please see www.gozoculture.com for further details and also details of others events taking place throughout the summer. Leisure/Sport Located in The Duke Shopping Centre you will find The Salus Well Being Centre, the centre offers a range of health and beauty products and treatments. In addition to an expert stylist, masseus, and nail care technician, Salus provides clients with a heated indoor pool and full-service aerobic center. Phone: +356 2156-6332 for opening times. The Gozo Sports Complex located on Europe Street has excellent gym facilities and is open 7 days a week between 8am and 9pm, call 21560677 for further details. Tourist Information - The Malta/Gozo Tourist Information office is located at 17 Independence Square, opening hours Mon-Sat 9am-5.30pm, Sun 9am - 1pm. Banks - There are two major banks located on Republic Street, Bank of Valletta and HSBC. The banks are generally open between 8.30am and 2pm Mon-Fri and between 8.30am and 12.30pm on saturdays. Transport - The majority of the Islands traffic will pass in and through Victoria at some point during the day. The main bus terminus is located on Main Gate Street and is the main hub for travel around the Island. See www.arriva.com.mt for routes and details. Taxis are also plentiful outside the bus station. Lodging - Victoria is home to one hotel, The Downtown Hotel located on Europe Street. It is a 3* Hotel with comfortable rooms and modern facilities. There is also a splash pool located on the roof. Rooms from 40 euros per night. Tel: 2210 8000 - www.downtown.com.mt Internet Access - For free wifi head to Grapes Bar, Mc Donalds in The Arkadia Centre and the The Clock House on Republic St. Medical - The Gozo General Hospital is located in Victoria and offers in and out patient facilities as well as a decompression unit. Tel: 2156 1482 For more general/minor health issues. Gozo Health Centre is located on Triq Enrico Mizzi St, Tel: 2215 6820

mygozo magazine 20

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Your Business Here

Patrick’s Lounge | Restaurant | Steakhouse

IT TOKK RESTAURANT Independence Square, Victoria, Gozo

It-Tokk, local food coffee & wine bar, is the central casual dining experience in Victoria, on the island of Gozo, for traditional Maltese food and much more. Situated on the picturesque Pjazza Independeza ( Independence Square), right in the heart of Gozo. we recommend that every visitor wanting to get a good taste of Maltese food comes round to It-Tokk at least once. Many return over and over again. At It-Tokk we keep things simple. Our food is homely, our style casual and friendly, and our décor cosy, welcoming and unique. Our prices are moderate and you can literally spend as much or as little as you like. We open our doors at 10 am and serve food and drink all through the day and evening, so whether it’s for a hearty english breakfast, light fresh fish for lunch, a late afternoon spicy bite of pizza with a glass of wine, or a hearty rabbit stew for dinner, you’re always welcome at Tony's & Vanessa's. If you happen to be around on an event night (Carnival, St. George Feast, Santa Marija Feast, Notte Gozitana) then aim for a table on the beautiful roof terrace and watch all the events happening, while enjoying our delicious food. We do special menus for events like birthday parties, christenings, staff parties etc. OPEN EVERYDAY FOR LUNCH AND DINNER FROM 10AM UNTIL LATE ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... FOR RESERVATIONS PLEASE CALL +356 21551213 www.it-tokkrestaurant.com

Underground Emergency Mill

XLENDI

In 1955 During British rule of the Maltese Islands several emergency mills were built that were War was to break out. One of these mills was Church, in Xlendi, and is the only one left intact was a huge undertaking, cumulating in an entrance tunnel some 30 metres long, and a 3 storey chamber that housed the grinding and milling equipment, thankfully the mill was never put into use, but there are plans to restore the mill to its former glory as most of the original equipment is still inside. Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church Mount Carmel and dates back to 1868. On the celebrated in honour of Mount Carmel and it is a really enjoyable weekend to be in Xlendi. During the day water games are held in the bay, with the traditional 'gostra' a greasy pole that you have to the evening there is a procession with the statue of Our Lady of Mount Carmel carried around Xlendi.

Xlendi, is a picture postcard bay located to the

Sights/Culture/Nature

amongst Gozitans, Maltese and tourists alike. Many people are attracted to Xlendi due to the Waterside setting of the many bars and restaurants

Xlendi is home to several large caves including St Catherineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cave and Carolina's cave. Carolinas is

beach and excellent sunbathing spots located around the bay and plenty of water sports activities to keep all of the family happy including canoeing, banana boats, pedalos and diving schools. Self-Drive motor boats can also be hired as well as

once the property of Caroline Cauchi, a wealthy woman from Victoria. In later years she founded the Augustinian Sisters on Gozo and donated almost all of her land, including the cave and other land in Xlendi to the sisters. During the summer months the Sisters would reside in Xlendi and

As you can imagine, for a popular sea-side resort there is an abundance of accommodation options to choose from, including self-catering, hotels and B+B's. Please see pages 38 for further details.

from other swimmers as it could only be reaches by private stairs. St Catherineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cave is located to the right of the bay, just as you are entering Xlendi Bay, it is a popular place for snorkelers and divers alike owing to the crystal clear waters found in and around the cave. During the 17th Century, people in fact lived around the cave and it received its name after a Church that was built above the site and the Saint whom the Church was dedicated to. Unfortunately the church is longer on the site.

Shopping Xlendi, although there are several shops selling

comes to life during the summer months when the 20+ restaurants are packed out every pasta, pizza, Chinese, and excellent meat dishes. Bars/Pubs/Nightclubs Many of the restaurants tend to close by around midnight but late night drinking can be found at Ta'Nona, located next to the San Andrea Hotel C-Seven at and at weekends. Xlendi is home to a pub which has live music on a regular basis throughout the year. For party goers, Xlendi housesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; one of Europe's most picturesque nightclubs, La Grotto, which is perched on a host to some famous names in the DJ world and is extremely popular during the summer months,

watchtower dating back to 1650, it was built on the order of Grandmaster Lascaris and stands 35 ft square at its base and 30 courses high. Although visitors cannot go inside the watchtower, it is currently being restored, but it is well worth the walk, for sun seekers there are some fabulous

Kantra

Restaurants

due to the odd shape of the valley that resembles a

Useful Information

a mobile supermarket that visits Xlendi once a day, around 10am and is located in the main car park. and milk. ATM's HSBC and Bank of Valletta, both are located close to the main car park. Police Station - Xlendi Police station is located on St Andrews Street Internet Access and restaurants. Bus - Route 306 operates between Xlendi and at 05.20am and the last one at 22.45pm

Watch Tower can be reached by following the coastal path to the left of the bay through the Kantra Valley and by taking the bridge that connects the headland to the land.

www.lagrottaleisure.com for further details and entry prices. Above La Grotto is a smaller club called Club Paradiso which is open all year round and is operated by the same people as La Grotta.

Xlendi is packed with lots of excellent places to eat, we recommend the following,

Accommodation

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bridge built by the Knights of Saint John over the Kantra Valley.

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Ta’Karolina Stone Crab The Boat House Bonitos Captains Table Le Val D’Or London Lounge C-Seven Paradise

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Accomodation

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Taâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Karolina Bar, Restaurant, Pizzeria

Situated in the picturesque Xlendi Bay, Ta' Karolina offers exquisite food with very good value for money. A tiny sandy beach is found nearby, so children can play and splash around in the clear blue waters while adults take their time enjoying their meal. Having tables situated right at the water's edge will surely enhance your visit and complete your full dining experience. It is an exceptionally pleasant place to shade yourself from the midday sun. Although we specialise in fresh fish dishes, our menu ranges from pizza to pasta, meat and also kids' meals. The staff is well-trained, friendly and can easily adjust to the client's needs. Harnessing the stunning location, as well as great food and prices, Ta' Karolina remains a classic with locals and tourists alike. Having lunch, dinner or just a drink or coffee here is pure bliss. Disover the real soul of Mediterranean dining whilst taking in breathtaking views of Xlendi Bay

Marina Street, Xlendi For reservations, Tel: +356 2155 9675

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Bus Terminus

Restaurants and Bars

There is a small sandy beach located to the east of the promenade, it can tend to get busy during the summer, especially at the weekend, there are other bathing spots towards the west of the bay on the rocks towards the headland. Xwieni Bay and Obajjar Bay are located west of Marsalforn and offer good swimming and bathing spots as well as several bars and restaurants. Bars/Pubs/Nightclubs The majority of Marsalforns bars and restaurants are situated around the harbour and the waterfront area, although the development of Marsalforn over the past 15 years has seen development as far as Obajjar bay. There are upwards of 25 bars and restaurants to choose from, serving everything from fresh fish to sweet and sour chicken. We recommend IL Kartell, Menqa L’Antika, Chez Amand and La Perla @ Hotel Calypso. Marsalforns bars get busy during the weekend when the local population let their hair down after a tough week. For late night drinking head to the Dive Bar, where there are some excellent cocktail and great tunes. If you are looking for a real pub experience then head to BoJangles, a traditional pub serving pints, pub food and shows live football. If you enjoy belting out a few classics then the Piùtrentanove Lounge Bar holds Karoeke nights every Monday night during the summer as does a new edition to the Marsalforn

To Victoria Otters Pierre’s Neptunes Il Kartel Ta Pennellu Pebbles Smiles IL Forno

9. Smugglers 10. Dragon 11. Simply Blues 12. La Trattoria 13. Bo-Jangles 14. Electra 15. Lantern 16. Tang Cheng 17. Arzella 18. Murella 19. Chez Amand 20. Qbajjar Restaurant

scene, The Glassbox who also have live music on a regular basis. History/Sights/Culture/Nature

Accomodation a) Hotel Calypso b) Lantern c) Maria Giovanna d) Electra Hotel

As you approach Marsalforn from Victoria, you will probably notice the lush green scenery that surrounds you, this is known as The Marsalforn Valley. The Valley is surrounded by several hills, the most famous being Tas-Salvatur (Our Saviours Hill) also referred locally as Tal-Merzuq Hill (Ray of Light). On top of the hill sits a large statue of Christ the Savior, this was erected in 1904 and sits proudly over Marsalforn. Marsalforn is a composite word. "Marsa" is an Arabic word meaning `port` or `bay.` There is disagreement on the origin of the second part of the word - `forn` -. Forn means "a bakery" in Maltese, but it is highly improbable that this has anything to do with Marsalforn, for it is unlikely that a bakery would be built in an area with a small population. It is quite likely that this name, like that of other Gozitan ports, might refer to a type of ship. In that case it would derive from Liburna. an Illyrian type of a ship, which became livurna in Greek, and lifurna in Arabic. The name might also have been derived from forna, a word used by Gozitan fishermen to refer to " a cave hollowed out by the sea". There are several of these in Marsalforn, the best known being Ghar Qawqla `the cave at the steep hill`. Marsalforns history dates back to Roman times and as recently as the 16th Century, Marsalforn was the most important port in Gozo. Food and supplies were imported from Sicily and passengers were able to board boats that took them to Licata in Sicily and further afield. Marsalforn was considered so important during the reign of the Knights of the Order of St John that they considered abandoning the Citadel in Victoria and building a new fort that overlooked Marsalforn Bay. This plan never materialized as the plans were fought strongly by the Gozitan people. With the growth of Mgarr as a port, Marsalforn began to lose its importance on an economical front and was mainly inhabited by small fishing communities.

hra - Xag

Marsalforn is Xlendi’s bigger sister and during the summer months the promenades will be full of people and restaurants packed with locals and holiday makers alike. There are a wide range of restaurants to choose from, most situated on the sea-front. For youngsters there is an amusement park located in the car park and during the summer months it is possible for small children to take a ride on a donkey that operates along the promenade. Eating an ice-cream purchased from one of the excellent Galaterias is a great way to round off an evening.

Accomodation a) Calypso b) Lantern c) Giovanna d) Electra

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Triq il-Obajjar

26. La Pulena 27. Latini 28. Beppes 29. Lounge 21 30. Arzella

Hotel

20 19 t r o P lPjazza San Pawl Triq i

Triq

Marsalforn is Gozo’s main summer holiday destination with many Gozitans and Maltese having holiday flats there. It is situated to the North of the island and is only a ten minute drive from Victoria. Marsalforn is a traditional fishing village and boats can be seen coming and going throughout the day providing fresh fish to the bustling restaurants.

14. Cafe Del Mar 15. Smileys 16. Glassbox 17. Electra 18. Bo-Jangles 19. Il Forno 20. La Trattoria 21. Smugglers 22. Murella 23. Calypso 24. Odyssey 25. L’Antika

Triq ir - Rabat

1. Qbajjar 2. Chez Amand 3. Otters 4. Pierre’s 5. Neptunes 6. Il Kartel 7. Unwind Bar 8. Krya’s Inn 9. L’Aragosta 10. Dive Bar 11. Ta Pennellu 12. Marlene D 13. Pebbles

13 14 15

21Calypso

IX Triq

Boat Launch

Marina

rah S ir Mic rn helan Fo gelo Ref il 7 8 alo q 9 10 K i 11 Tr

d Triq il - Wie

Parking

24 23 22

Police Station

Mis

KEY Food and Drink Accomodation

29 30 28 27 26 25

Tri q

Triq Santa Marija

MARSALFORN

To Xaghra

Triq Lapsi

springing up all over the bay. The village spread rapidly as far as Obajjar Bay to the west of Marsalforn. Despite tourism being Marsalforns biggest earner, it has stayed close to its roots and has a strong fishing history. It is well documented that Paul the Apostle was ship wrecked in Malta, but local legend believes that he set sail for Sicily and Rome from Marsalforn. The church in Marsalforn is named after Paul, ‘’San Pawl’’. The Church dates back to 1730 and the Feast of St Paul is celebrated on the 10th February. Accommodation For a major resort accommodation is plentiful in Marsalforn, please see page 38 for further details. Useful Information Shopping – There is a supermarket selling a wide variety of fresh and tinned produce on Triq-llObajjar, as well as a pharmacy a few doors down. There is also a mobile market van that stocks fresh fruit, bread and milk etc, this is located around the bus terminus. ATM- There is a Bank of Valletta cash machine located on the promenade, next to the Dive Bar. Police Station – Marsalforn police station is located next door to the Calypso Hotel. Internet Access – Internet access is available at the Extreme Sports Cafe, from €4 per hour. Bus – Route 306 runs between Marsalforn, Victoria and Xlendi. The first bus leaves Marsalforn at 06:17am and runs every hour until 23:17

The growth of the tourist industry during the 20th century led to new inward investment in Marsalforn with hotels, apartments and restaurants

mygozo magazine 28

Since 1973, Il-Kartell Restaurant, located on the isle of Gozo, has become the venue where friends meet to enjoy fine food and wine in an ambience of wellbeing. The chefs treat our Mediterranean and Gozitan cuisine with great care. Our menu offers a wide selection of antipasti, soups, pasta, meat dishes, fresh fish, also lobsters, oysters and cozze, fresh from our aquarium, all at a reasonable price. Our extensive wine list includes Marsamena Wines produced in Gozo using grape varieties grown exclusively on the island. Il-Kartell is beautifully placed in the picturesque left corner of Marsalforn Bay on the waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s edge, with an indoor option making it an ideal winter retreat. Outside catering events available. Booking recommended. Marina Street, Marsalforn Bay, Marsalforn, Gozo T. 21 556 918 / 7900 1965 Email: info@il-kartellrestaurant.com; info@connectioncaterers.com www.il-kartellrestaurant.com

La Perla Restaurant Sunday Buffet Lunch While away a lazy sunday afternoon at La Perla where you can feast on an exquisite array of Antipasti, Salads, Cold Cuts, Pasta, Meats, Fish and delectable desserts for only K23 per person.

Room With A View....... Immerse yourself in the charm of the Mediterranean...Hotel Calypso provides the perfect romantic escapes and fun filled family holidays. Check out our website for special offers, www.hotelcalypsogozo.com Hotel Calypso, Marsalforn Bay, Island of Gozo, Malta Tel: (+356) 21562000 E-mail: info@hotelcalypsogozo.com

La Perla is also open for dinner and we oďŹ&#x20AC;er a set menu as well as full A La Carte menu. Scan this QR code with your smart phone.

Join our facebook page today !

A Day At Ta’Mena Estate If you are looking to venture away from the beaches and museums, The Ta’Mena Estate offers tourists a great escape where you can delve into the real Gozo As you make your way down towards Marsalforn from Victoria, about half way down, on your right hand side you will see a road side shop that sells all kinds of fruit, vegetables and local treats including sundried tomatoes, capers, olives, tomato paste, chutneys and wine. This gem of a shop is the public face of the Ta’ Mena Estate, the first Agri-Tourism Complex on the Maltese Islands where tourists can blend in with the workers and get a real feel for a working agri environment. The complex offers guests the chance to see at first hand how grapes are harvested and how mother nature and traditional methods combine to create wonderful wines. Ta’ Mena is run by the Spiteri family and the estate is named after their later mother, Carmen, better known as Mena, who founded the estate back in 1971 when she used to sell the fresh fruit and vegetables she grew in her garden to customers who were given the chance to pick their own. The tradition that Carmen implemented back in the 70’s still lives long today.

tina, Gellewza, Grenache, Tempranillo, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Serkuzan and Sangiovese.

Five different varieties of liqueur are produced and several traditional food products which include a particular tomato paste which is matured in the sun, sun-dried tomatoes, cold pressed extra virgin olive oil, olives in brine, carob syrup, pure Ta’ Mena Agri Limited, as the company is known continues to honey, capers, several chutneys, sea salt, olive and sundried be a family run business today, producing wines, liqueurs, and tomato pâtés, kapunata and several other products which are typical Gozitan products, as well as offering supplementary strictly produced from old recipes that were passed down to the activities such as agri-cultural tours, fruit and vegetable picking, Spiteri family by their forefathers. functions and events and accommodation. The raw materials that are used for the various product lines are all produced on the estate which is spread over 25 hectares of agricultural land. At Ta’ Mena Estate there are over 90,000 vines, 1500 olive trees, 800 orange trees and a few hundred fruit trees. Ta’ Mena also produce their own tomatoes, strawberries, melons, water melons and vegetables that are used in the numerous products that are produced. All of Ta’ Mena’s products are produced using traditional methods without any colouring, preservatives and flavourings. A trip to Ta’ Mena would not be complete without a tour of the winery where twelve different wines are produced in a state-ofthe-art winery under the MARSAMENA BRAND. They are produced from hand picked grapes that are grown on the estate. The grape varieties include Chardonnay, Vermentino, Girgen-

mygozo magazine 30

The Ta’ Mena motto is – ‘Where tradition is daily life’. The Spiteri family firmly believe in this motto and in the healthy local produce that they produce. The family are proud that only the freshest ingredients go into their produce and that they are able to bottle up a small piece of Gozo into a jar or bottle for tourists to take home with them. Activities and General Information Agri-Cultural Tours are available of the estate which include Ta’ Mena’s extensive vineyards, winery, olive and orange groves, fruit orchard and agricultural heritage. Horse-Riding and Pony Trekking can also be organised around the estate as well as the local Gozitan countryside. Pre-Booking is required. Fruit and Vegetable Picking Why not try your hand at picking your own vegetables to take home with you. This includes strawberry, oranges and stone fruit when in season. Pre-Booking is required. Functions and Events - Ta’ Mena organize wedding and anniversary receptions “with a green touch”, parties, barbeques and any other private function. Special events with a Gozitan Character are also held between March and November. Accommodation - Ta’ Mena can offer a variety of self-catering farmhouses with pools, maisonettes and apartments overlooking the estate. For more details visit their website.

The Ta’Mena Estate, Gozo

www.tamena-gozo.com

‘’where tradition is daily life’’

If you are looking for somewhere a little different during your holiday and a place where you can really immerse yourself into a Gozo of yesteryear then come down to the Ta’Mena Estate where a warm welcome awaits you. As one of the few Agri-Tourism Complexes on the Maltese Islands you can learn about how we make our wines. You can taste our delicious home-made Gozitan products, take a horse and trek through our vast estate or you can pick your own fruit and vegetables to take home with you and enjoy. At Ta’ Mena you really are at home with mother nature. If you are thinking about having an event such as a wedding or large reception then come down and talk to us, we specialise in catering and holding events for large groups. Ta’Mena Enterprises Ltd, Ta’Mena Estate, Rabat Rd, Xaghra, Gozo, Malta Tel: +356 21564939 Email: info@tamena-gozo.com

MGARR

To Nadur 14

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4 5

8 9

Triq De VManoe ilhen l a 3

t Xat ix Triq

Fort Chambray

Harbour Air Sea Plane Terminal 6

Mgarr

ant Triq S

Garce s

To Victoria

il - Hamri

To Qala

in Triq Mart

o Garces

KEY Food and Drink Accomodation

ATM Swimming Zone

Parking

Boat Launch

Marina

One Way

Bus Terminus Restaurants and Bars

1. Country Terrace 2. Gleneagles 3. Il-Kcina Tal-Barrakka 4. Ta Paulo 5. Horatios Tavern 6. Manoels 7. Tmun

Triq M artino

Triq

Ant nin

qa Zewwie Triq iz -

10 11

8. Da Luigi 9. Monkeys Fist 10. Seaview 11. Al Porto 12. l’Ankra 13. Huan Yuan Accomodation 14. Grand Hotel

Ferry Terminal

To Malta

10 K

Mgarr, Gozo’s port, is the gateway to the Island, whether you are arriving by ferry or by sea-plane, you will pass through Mgarr. As the ferry makes it way slowly into the harbour, Gozo’s beauty is immediate; Mgarr is a picturesque fishing village that hasn’t really changed much throughout the years. One of the most immediate sights will be the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Loreto that sits high above Mgarr and is actually in the Village of Ghajnsielem, it is a gothic style church and was built 1924. In 2011 the church received a set of 8 new bells with the largest weighing 5.5 tonnes. Ghajnsielem celebrates its annual feast on the last Sunday in August. As you would expect from a major port the main activity in Mgarr revolves around the fishing industry and the harbour is full of fishing vessels, large and small. There are no beaches in Mgarr but just around the corner to the east, you will find Hondoq Bay, a shingle beach that offers good swimming facilities. Comino is a short distance across the water from Mgarr and there are companies that offer shuttle services over to Comino, you will notice them as you approach the harbour. They run circa every hour and a return journey costs around €10 per person. Bars/Restaurants Diners are spoilt for choice with an abundance of high quality restaurants in Mgarr. As you would expect, fresh sea-food is the order of the day but there are top quality restaurants serving a la carte food including Gozitan, Mediterranean and Chinese food. We recommend IT-Tmun, the sister restaurant to Patricks Tmun in Victoria, it serves fusion and international cuisine. Tel: 2156 6276 for reservations. Also highly recommended is

L’Ankra, located on Shore St, who specialise in Mediterranean and excellent local cuisine, Tel: 2155 5656 for reservations. History/Sights/Culture/Nature Ferry services have operated between Gozo and Malta as far back as 1241 when the fishing industry was firmly established on the Island. As the fishing industry grew, so did Mgarr and communities begun to spring up around the vicinity of the harbour, especially more towards the hillside areas. The actual port area didn’t see any development until 1841 when a breakwater was built to provide extra protection. Throughout the 20th and 21st century the breakwater was extended several times and in 2008 a new ferry terminal accommodating 600 passengers and 200 cars was finally completed at a cost of €9.3 million. The new ferry terminal now allows the larger cruise ships that would normally visit Malta to stop on Gozo and allow cruise passengers a chance to see what Gozo has to offer. There are now plans to further develop the area with the creation of the Zewwieqa Waterfront, transforming parts of the port that are not in use into a family oriented space including restaurants, open spaces and restaurants. Sitting above Mgarr Harbour to the left is Fort Chambray, an old historic city located within a fortress. Built over 250 years ago during the reign of the Knights of St John, the fort was initially built as a replacement to the Citadel in Victoria. There was also a thought that building the fort would increase trade between Gozo and Malta. The Fort was only ever used once for military purposes, in 1798, during Gozo's defense against the revolutionary forces of General Bonaparte. Several British

regiments were stationed at the fort during the Crimean and First World Wars but fell into disrepair during the 20th century. Fort Chambray is now being developed into a luxury village community of apartments and villa’s with communal pools and opens spaces. Accommodation Accommodation -The 4 * Grand Hotel sits above Mgarr and offers commanding views of Mgarr, Comino and Malta. See www.grandhotelmalta.com for further details. Useful Information ATM – There is an ATM machine situated at the ferry terminal. Trips to Comino - Check out Xlendi Pleasure Cruises who offer shuttles and trips to Comino and around Gozo. See www.xlendipleasurecruises.com Bus – Route 301 runs between Victoria and Mgarr and coincides with the ferry timetable. The first bus leaves Victoria at 05:30am and the last bus 23:05. The first bus leaves Mgarr at 06:15am and the last bus 23:25pm.

mygozo magazine 32

Specialising in Traditional Gozitan Cuisine, Fresh Fish and Mediterranean Fusion Welcome to L- Ankra, It means the anchor in our language. Gozo was the Island home to the sea nymph calypso. According to the Homeric legend calypso lured Odysseus to urge into the chanting island when he was struggling to return,after the Trojan War, to his home in Ithaca, Greece, where Penelope awaited him surrounded by her suitors. Calypso figuratively " anchored" him here for seven years. We are sure that you do not need to be anchored here but Our creative, locally inspired, cuisine will insure your return. Wherever possible we acquire the highest quality local produce not only for its great taste but also because we are proud of the high standard our small island can give, however, we take the liberty to be creative and explore different cuisines that give you the best possible. We hope to see you soon.

L’Ankra Bar and Restaurant, Shore Street, Mgarr, Gozo For reservations call tel: +356 21555656 Located in the picturesque harbour of Mgarr, Tmun, has been setting high standards on the Gozitan food scene for the last 25 years. Husband and wife team, Leli and Jane, joined by their son, Paul, have justifiably been rated one of the best restaurants on the Island year after year. The family set high standards and constantly strive to improve their menu with new twists to modern classics. Tmun regulars as well as Leli and Jane all have fond memories of their original restaurant in Xlendi but since 2008 the restaurant has took up residence in Mgarr harbour where diners can relax in a more modern environment whilst literally dipping their toes into the sea. Sitting outside Tmun, enjoying a beautifully prepared meal whilst watching the local fisherman bring in their catch is a joy to be-hold. Tmun is renowned for it’s seafood, as you would expect due to the location, but also serves excellent meat and vegetarian dishes. The wine list is very impressive, boasting over 300 local and foreign wines Tmun, Mgarr, Triq Martinu Garces, Mgarr, Gozo Opening Hours: Mon-Sun, Lunch 12.00:14.30, Dinner, 18:30-22:30, closed on Tuesdays For Reservations call; +356 2156 6276 Email: info@tmunmgarr.com Website: www.tmunmgarr.com

Read what Some of Our Diners Are Saying About Us ‘’Excellent food, Excellent service - Simply amazing’’ March 2012 Paris, France ‘’Fine dining experience, superb attention to detail, splendid staff, delicious ! ‘’ May 2012, Chelmsford, UK ‘’Very interesting menu, executed to perfection....the service on the night was 5*’’ February 2012, Balzan, Malta

Triq It 28

Triq ta

enc Ta C Triq

Sannat

To Victoria

azie na

ri D Cocco Palme

Triq Ta Xa

S an

KEY Food and Drink

ATM K

Accomodation

nat

Parking Restaurants and Bars Accomodation 1. Sannat Lions 2. L’Iskoll 3. IL-Girna 4. Uncle Teds 5. Ta Rosina

6. Hotel Ta Cenc

Tal Gru wa

SANNAT

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To Xlendi

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Sannat is home to a large number of farmhouses that are often rented out to tourists during the summer months. For those staying in the farmhouses or for tourists looking to sample local Village life there are a number of bars and restaurants dotted around the village. The Sannat Lions FC Bar serves excellent pizza’s and always offers a warm welcome to visitors, it is a good spot to watch live football and also

3 5

has a pool table. Ta’Rosina is a delightful bar that offers a real taste of Gozitan life. The wonderful owner Rosina is a great host and she will often lay on Gozitan treats such as peppered cheese and olives. The bar is found just in front of ‘’The Lace House’’ on "Pjazza Tax-Xelina’’. Il-SKOLL is an excellent restaurant with an a la carte menu available. Sannat is also home to the 5* Ta’ Cenc Hotel, the hotel houses a spa and some excellent restaurants. Other bars and restaurants include Il Girna and Uncle Teds Tavern situated opposite Ta’Cenc. Bus route 306 runs hourly between Ta’Cenc and San Lawrenz via Victoria between 05:37 am and 22:37pm.

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Gharb

Restaurants q Tri

l Triq i

Main Square

ja - Knis

1.Jeffries 2. Savina 3. Tatitas To Victoria 3

Fre nc ta

The village itself is dominated by its Church, dedicated to St Margaret. The Church was built in 1718 and celebrates its feast on the 4th Sunday in July. After the

2nd World War, Queen Elizabeth the 2nd stayed in a house called "The Lace house" located in a small square called "Pjazza Tax-Xelina’’. Sannat has a strong horse racing history and the village often fares well in the annual horse races that take place around festa time.

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Sannat Sannat is a sleepy village located to the south of the Island, a ten minute drive from Victoria. Sannat was once famed for its lace industry but unfortunately progress and mass production has put paid to this. With a population of just over 2000, Sannat is known for its ancient cart ruts, temples and dolmens, and rich fauna and flora. Sannat is probably now well known for being the gateway to the Ta’Cenc cliffs, probably Gozo’s most beautiful natural area. Fisherman can still be seen launching their pots from the cliff edge.

Tri q

Ta’Rosina, Sannat mygozo magazine 34

Museum

Triq IL Tal Mado Virt nna u

Parking Restaurants and Bars Accomodation Museums

Triq Il

a isj Kn

7.Gharb Folklore

Wil leg

4 Triq San Lawrenz Ta’Dbiegi Crafts Centre

Gozitan industries and is still home to traditional second oldest Parish on Gozo, the current church, built in 1699 is dedicated to the visitation of the

celebrated on the 1st Sunday in July. Gharb lies amongst some of the most scenic countryside on the Island, particularly at Dbiegi, the largest hill on Museum (see page 12) located on the main square. Ta' Dbiegi Crafts Village, a must visit for any visitor looking to sample Gozo’s arts and crafts. In the limits of 14 for further details. Gharb is home to some fantastic houses of character, of which a large number are available to rent throughout the year, for those looking to purchase property, Gharb has some exceptional property for sale, (see page 44) For those looking for a place to eat there are several I-Gharb, has been a very amongst tourists and locals for many years and serves high quality food in a traditional atmosphere, for reservations Tel:

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k Por angis

telliTriq L-G

har b

renz

Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz

Dulu ri Law

To Dwejra 5

San Lawrenz

Triq Wied Merill

balconies. Gharb is quintessentially Gozitian and it’s main square, with the church dominating, has been the scene of many a postcard throughout the

Gharb

6. Hotel Kempinski

Dwejra The Inland Sea

Gharb is a beautiful Village, located west of Victoria about a ten minute drive away. Gharb is one of the oldest Villages on the Island and derives it’s name from Arabic, although in Maltese it means ‘’West’’ and it is in fact the western most Village on the Island. Gharb started life as a small hamlet hundreds of years ago and was originally populated by farmers who worked the fertile land. You can see it’s ancient roots in the centre of the Village where

Triq Ta’Sdieri

q Tri

2. Rangers Bar 3. Savina 4. Tatita’s 5. Azure Window

Frenc ta l-Gharb

ATM

Accomodation

x - Tru

KEY Food and Drink

it Triq

GHARB, SAN LAWRENZ THE INLAND SEA

To Victoria

21561006. Ta’Salvina, located on the main square is renowned for its local and Mediterranean Rangers FC Bar, located at 118 Triq il Knisja, is an institution in Gharb and has a fantastic roof garden bar serves excellent pizzas as well as other well produced local dishes. For sports fans there are several large screen tv’. Just down the road at Azure Window restaurant is a must visit and serves excellent seafood as well as pasta and meat dishes. one of the best on the Island. Bus Route 305 runs between Gharb and Ta’Cenc then hourly until 23:11pm.

Gharb

WINDOW

Uniquely situated on the water’s edge in the picturesque Dwejra Inland Sea, our restaurant is renowed for local and Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you prefer dining indoors or al fresco on the terrace that offers breathtaking views of the Inland Sea, we offer you a special dining experience away from the crowds. Enjoy freshley prepared and authentic dishes for lunch and dinner. Specialising in local fresh fish, A La Carte and snack menu also available. We also cater for wedding parties and large groups. Pjazza Dwejra - San Lawrenz - Gozo Tel: +356 2156 6560 - Mob - +356 79067196 Email: azurewindow.cassar@gmail.com Open daily from 9.30am onwards

mygozo magazine 35

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Restaurants

To Mgarr

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Main Square

KEY Food and Drink

ATM

Accomodation

Museum

Parking

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Squa c re

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Nadur

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returned to the Village and their allegiances to the countries they emigrated to are shown in the flags hung outside their homes. Outside of Gozo, Nadur is probably most famous for it’s annual carnival that takes place in February during the 5 days that precede Ash Wednesday. The carnival is known as the Grotesque or Macabre Carnival due to the outfits that are donned by the festival goers. The Nadur Parish church was built in 1760 and is dedicated to St Peter and St Paul. The feast takes place on the 29th June each year. Nadur is home to the Kelinu Grima Maritime Museum, see page 11 for more details. The beaches of San Blas Bay and Dahlet Qorrot can be reached via Nadur. There are several places to eat in Nadur, for those looking for a light snack in the form of a Gozitan Ftira or pizza we recommend the Maxokk Bakery for an authentic taste of Gozo. They are located on St James’s street in the heart of the

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Triq

Triq San Gwann

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Main Square

Triq il -Madonna ta’Lourdes

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Nadur is Gozo’s largest village with a population of just over 5000 people. Nadur means ‘’lookout’’ in Maltese and comes from the Arabic word nadara. Perched on a high hill with commanding views of Comino and Malta it is clear why Nadur was an ideal spot to look out for unfriendly enemies. Several watchtowers were built in and around Nadur , Ta’Kenuna Tower was built by the British in the 19th century and was used as a telegraph link between Gozo and Malta. From the tower you can see much of the Island and the views out towards the Comino channel are to die for. When the Knights of St John ruled the Island a tower was built by Grand Master Nicholas Cotoner and is known as Ta’Sopu tower. It is also called Dahlet Qorrot and San Blas Tower after the two bays it sits between. During the 1960’s a lot people from Nadur emigrated to the US, Canada, Australia and the UK, many of whom have now

1 2

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Kni s

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Restaurants and Bars 1. Maxokk 2. Al Capone 3. Rabokk 4. Anthonys 5. Ta’Kenuna 6. Martins 7. D-Bar

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Tri qi

R ab at

tTriq i

To San Blas Bay

San Blas

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iq Tr

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7. Ta’Kola Windmill 8. Ninus Cave 9. Xerris Grotto 10.Toy Museum

Bus route 322 runs between Marsalforn and Mgarr via Xaghra roughly every 90 minutes between 05:24am and 22:39pm.

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Museums

q Tri

5 8 Ta Kenuna Tower

6.Cornocopia

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1. Pulitos 2. Xi-Xi 3. Oleander 4. D Venue 5. Gesther 6. Breeze 7. Rubble Bar

choice of Gozitan and Maltese dishes, it also has live music. Tel: 2156 6542 for further details. For lovers of Asian Food, Xi-Xi serves excellent Chinese food in cool surroundings, they are located on 8th September Street, Tel: 2155 0555 for reservations. If you are looking for something a little different, the Cornocopia Hotel hold BBQ evenings around their pools throughout the summer, live music is also provided, contact 2155 6486 for dates and reservations. Rubble Bar, is a great bar/restaurant that serves great local delicacies as well as excellent steaks. Inside is an old style bar that has a really friendly and welcoming environment. Tel: 2156 3758.

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Malta and includes horse racing, the building of the Ggantija Temples, The Great Siege of 1565 and other events. If you are on Gozo around the 22nd August the games are a great family event. Xaghra is home to a good number of museums and historical monuments including Calypso’s Cave, The Ggantija Temples, Ninu’s Cave, Xerri’s Cave and Ta’Kola Windmill, see pages 12 for more details. For food lovers Xaghra is home to some excellent restaurants. Breeze Restaurant, located on Victory Square serves excellent local and Mediterranean food, including daily specials and a good choice of vegetarian food. Tel: 2155 3044. Oleander, located on Victory Square serves fantastic home made food in a traditional environment, Tel: 2155 7230 for reservations. Pulito’s, on the Marsalforn rd, has great views of the Gozitan countryside and serves Mediterranean food, Tel: 2156 9359 for reservations. D-Venue, located on Victory square serves superb food including a wide

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Xaghra, located to the North East of the Island is the second largest Village on the Island with a population of just over 4200 people. The village is perched on a high hill and has great views of much of the Island including Ramla Bay. In Maltese, Xaghra means ‘’wilderness’’, a term relating to its location on top of a hill. Many people believe that Xaghra was one of the inhabited parts of Gozo, and looking at the architecture of the village and its surroundings it is easy to understand why. The focal point of the Village is the Church, dedicated to the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The church that stands today was built in 1815 and the church is covered in marble throughout. The Village feast is celebrated on the 8th of September and if you are on Gozo at the same time, a visit to the feast is a must. In the weeks prior to the village feast, the Xaghra Youth Centre organise the annual Xaghra Youth games, an annual event that revolves around the history of the village, Gozo and

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village. Gebuba Wine Bar, located on the main square is an intimet bar serving cocktails and wines from around the world. Rabokk located in the main square serves great snacks and pizza’s and is good value for money. For those looking for a la carte food head to Anthony’s, a wine bar and restaurant situated in a quaint square behind the main church, Tel: 2156 5369 for reservations. Martin’s Diner located just in front of the football club on the road into Nadur from Mgarr has fantastic views across the channel, it also serves excellent food. Tel: 2155 8974 for reservations. Bus route 303 runs between Victoria and Mgarr via Nadur every hour between 05:52am and 22:52pm.

mygozo magazine 36

www.breezerestaurantingozo.com

RUBBLE BAR

Experience the scrumptious selection of antipasti, salads, pasta, steaks and fresh fish at Rubble Bar in the heart of Xaghra Square, where exotic local ingredients and mouth watering sauces come Open daily from 9am-3.30pm together in a symphony of flavours. We warmly welcome you to join us for a casual lunch or dinner and from 6.00pm until late. where you will devour genuine food, at good prices and with stand out service. Or come along and Closed on Thursdays simply chill out and relax with some friends over a few drinks or refreshing cocktails in a warm and cosy ambience.

Rubble Bar and Restaurant, Victory Square, Xaghra, Gozo Tel +356 21563758

Forty Winks

Hotel Ta’Cenc, Sannat Visitors to Gozo are quite literally spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation, the island has some excellent accommodation available and first time visitors are quite literally blown away by the choice available. Whether you are looking for a 5* Hotel or a quaint B+B, all budgets and tastes are catered for. When deciding where to stay on Gozo it can prove to be a difficult decision as many factors are taken into consideration, do you want to be close to the sea ? in the country side ?, hiden away from the hustle and bustle of daily life in a quiet village ? do you want to go half board, self catering etc etc. For those visitors looking for a room with a sea view, there a several excellent options available, The 4* St Patricks Hotel in Xlendi is located on the waters edge and offers commanding views of the beautifal bay, likewise the 3* San Andrea Hotel located a couple of doors down. The St Patricks Hotel has a small rooftop splash pool and during the summer months holds regular special events on the rooftop. In Marsalforn you will find the 4* Calypso Hotel, located in the port, rooms offer great views of Marsalforn Bay. The hotel has a rooftop pool and during the summer hosts regular BBQ nights where live music is provided. Mgarr is home to the 4* Grand Hotel which has commanding views of the Gozo Channel towards Comino and Malta. The hotel has a large sized swimming pool amid peaceful surroundings where guests can while away the summer days. For Visitors with a larger budget and looking for a luxury stay then they need look no further than the the 5* Hotel Ta'Cenc in Sannat. The hotel offers it’s own version of luxury and privacy. The Hotel is set in mature gardens and guests are left alone to their own devices, if you are looking for real privacy then Hotel Ta'Cenc is a must stay. There is an excellent Spa facility on-site offering full spa and body treatments, an ideal way to pass a few hours away and retreat from the sun. The hotel has it's own beach access and several swimming pools where you can laze around and enjoy a cocktail or two. You could easily come to Gozo for a week or two and not want to leave the hotel. For a taste of village life then head to the 4* Cornocopia Hotel, located on the outskirts of the Village of Xaghra. The hotel has a farmhouse feel to

it and you really do get that ''away from it'' feeling, the hotel has two large swimming pools and hosts a twice weekly BBQ night during the summer months. At the budget end of the scale you will find the 3* Downtown Hotel located in Victoria. Now the only hotel in the capital, it offers an excellent location from which to explore the delights that Victoria has to offer. Guests will find great value for money, the rooms are large and comfortable and the hotel has a rooftop splash pool if you fancy a dip. Staying in a hotel isn't always to everyones liking and Gozo has some excellent alternatives. One of these is to stay in a B+B and Gozo has several excellent B+B choices to choose from. Xlendi is home to the

San Antonio Guest House, a intimate guest house with 20 rooms that has one of the best swimming pools in Xlendi. The rooms offer excellent value for money and the house is in a peaceful part of Xlendi. In Marsalforn a warm welcome awaits you at the Lantern Guest House, centrally located and a minutes walk from plenty of bars and restaurants it is an ideal choice for those with a lesser budget. Marsalforn is also home to the Electra Guest House and Maria Giovanna hostel both offering excellent value for money. Other excellent B+B options include Mariblu in Xewkija, Lellux B+B in Qala, Poppetts Farmhouse in Xaghra and Hibiscus B+B in Sannat.

Our Top Hotel Picks

Hotel Ta’Cenc, Sannat If you are looking for total peace and tranquility during your stay on Gozo, look no further than the 5* Hotel Ta’Cenc. Luxurious rooms are spread throughout the beautifal gardens. Guests can enjoy a private beach www.vjborg.com Grand Hotel, Mgarr The 4* Grand Hotel sits above Mgarr Harbour and enjoys superb views of Comino and Malta. Rooms are spacious and include large terraces to enjoy the views from. www..grandhotelmalta.com Calypso Hotel, Marsalforn The 4* Calypso enjoys a prominant location on the water front. With a beach in front of the hotel and a roof top pool this is a family friendly hotel, BBQ evenings are held on the roof . www.hotelcalypsogozo.com Hotel San Andrea, Xlendi The 3* San Anrdrea is set on the waterfront at Xlendi. Rooms are spacious and sea-view rooms offer superb views of Xlendi Bay. The hotel has an excellent restaurant, Zafiro. www.hotelsandrea.com

St Patricks Hotel, Xlendi The 4* St Patricks Hotel, set on the waters edge at Xlendi Bay offers views to die for of the crystal blue sea located in front of the hotel. You can quite literally touch the sea from your balcony. www.vjborg.com Cornocopia Hotel, Xaghra Hidden away in the sleepy village of Xaghra you will find the 4* Cornocopia Hotel. The hotel has a homely feel to it and the luxurious surroundings will not want you to leave. www.vjborg.com Kempinski A 5* Hotel the Kempinski is an exclusive hide-away resort in San-Lawrenz. The hotel offers a fantastic spa and three outdoor pools and all the luxuary you would expect from a 5* hotel. www.kempinski.com Downtown Hotel, Victoria Well located in the Capital, Victoria, the 3* Downtown offers excellent value for money, rooms are large and there is a rooftop pool to cool down in. www.downtown.com.mt

mygozo magazine 38

Victor J. Borg Enterprises

Surrounded by tranquility... immersed in nature 83 room – all bungalow type and complete with all modern facilities, terraces or gardens, offers a unique atmosphere with complete tranquillity and relaxation in unspoiled natural surroundings and beautiful laid out walkways flanked by flowering shrubs and mature trees. The ‘Wellness Spa’ has been carefully chosen to blend with the surroundings and of a ‘Trullo’ style of the Hotel suites which is a distinct feature of the centre.

Hotel Ta’ Cenc & Spa | Isle of Gozo | Malta Tel:+356 22191000 Fax: +356 22191500 Email: tacenc@vjborg.com Web:www.tacenc.com

Ta’Peppa Farmhouse Abrahams Farmhouses

Typical Farmhouse

ne of the best ways to make the most out of a stay on the Island of Gozo is by renting one of the many farmhouses that are available for hire. There are an abundance of farmhouses to rent, many of which have been restored to their original features. Most include an outdoor pool, air conditioning and can house between 2+16 people which makes hiring a farmhouse ideal for large groups. The majority of the farmhouses on Gozo are found in the villages of San Lawrenz, Gharb, Ghasri, Santa Lucia, Xaghra, Kercem, Qala, Sannat and Nadur. Expect to pay between 80 to 200 euros per night depending the size of the Farmhouse. Peak times are July and August, and especially during the Feast of Santa Maria in the middle of August when many Maltese make the short journey across to Gozo. We highly recommend Abrahams Farmhouses who have 5* quality accommodation available in the village of Xaghra. All of Abraham’s farmhouses have been tastefully restored and maintain their original features. They are fitted with all mod cons and are ideal for couples, families and large groups, see www.abrahamgozofarmhouses.com for further details and booking information. Self-Catering is an excellent option for those looking for some freedom to explore the island as they wish. The seaside resorts of Xlendi and Marsalforn offer plenty of self-catering options. Top quality self-catering accommodation can also be found in-land including the villages of Xaghra, Ghasri, Nadur and Qala. Expect to pay between 40 and 120 depending on location and persons staying. Self catering accommodation is regulated by the Maltese Tourism Authority and is graded according to the standard of the establishment. If you are considering coming to Gozo for a longer period, ie 3+ months then many companies and property owners will offer very good discounts for long lets. Ulysses Aparthotel in Xlendi is an ideal option for people who are looking for a base close to the sea to explore the Island from, it is also an ideal place for divers as it houses a diving school on site, Moby Dives. www.ulyssesaparthotel.com For a comprehensive list of self catering accommodation please see our directory below.

Moby Dick Complex Xlendi

We highly recommend the Moby Dick Complex in Xlendi Bay, a warm welcome awaits at the seaview luxury appartments located on the waters edge. For more information please see http://www.mobydickgozo.com/apartments.html

Gozo Accommodation Directory Hotels

Farmhouses

Farmhouses Continued...

Hotel Ta’Cenc - Sannat - ***** www.vjborg.com http://www.kempinski.com/en/gozo St Patricks Hotel - Xlendi - **** www.vjborg.com Cornocopia Hotel - Xaghra - **** www.vjborg.com Kempinski - San Lawrenz - ***** The Grand Hotel - Mgarr - **** www.grandhotelmalta.com San Andrea Hotel - Xlendi - *** www.hotelsanandrea.com Downtown Hotel - Victoria - *** www.downtown.com.mt Calypso Hotel - Marsalforn - **** www.hotelcalypsogozo.com Hoitel Xlendi Resort and Spa www.hotelxlendi.com Ulyssees Aparthotel - Xlendi - ** www.mobydivesgozo.com

Abraham’s Farmhouses - www.abrahamgozofarmhouses.com Baron Group - www.barongroupmalta.com Gozo Village Holidays - www.gozovillageholidays.com Gozo Prestige Holidays - www.gozoprestigeholidays.com Gozo Luxuary Farmhouses - www.gozoluxuryfarmhouses.com Gozo Homes - www.gozoholidayhomes.com Gozo Farmhouses - www.gozofarmhouses.com Gozo Great Escapes - www.gozogreatescapes.com Bartolo Farmhouses - www.bartolofarmhouses.eu Gozo Choice - www.gozo-choice.com Pagella Farmhouses - www.pagella-farmhouses.com Tal-Bir Farmhouse - www.gozorelax.com Lalluwa Farmhouse - www.gozo.com/lalluwa Tal Masklu - www.gozo.com/talmasklu Attard Holiday Accomodation - www.stayingozo.com Borg Farmhouses - www.gozo.com/borgfarmhouses Ta’Maria Holiday Accomodation - www.gozo.com/ta’maria Best of Gozo - www.bestofgozo.com Bezger Farmhouses - www.gozo.com/tabezger Anel Farmhouses - www.gozo.com/anel Anasvell Farmhouses - www.gozo.com/anasvell Les Olives Farmhouse - www.gozo.com/lesolives Caqsi Farmhouses - www.gozo.com/caqsi Annina Farmhouses - www.gozo.com/annina Unique Gozo Farmhouses - www.gozo.com/unique First Gozo - www.gozo.com/firstgozo Gozo Pride - www.gozoprideholidays.com Gozo Farmhouse Villas - www.gozofarmhousevillas.com Mystic Flower Villa - www.gozo.com/mysticflower Ta’Vitorin - www.gozo.com/tavitorin Gozo Solaris Farmhouse - www.gozosolaris.com Berta Farmhouse - www.gozo.com/berta Gizimina Farmhouse - www.gizimina.com Ta’Dolora - www.gozo.com/tadolora Sunrise Gozo Holidays - www.gozo.com/sunrise Aachilles Farmhouses - gozo.com/aachilles Randu Accomodation - www.gozo.com/randu

Razzett il-Hena - www.razzettilhena.com Rest Away Gozo - www.restawaygozo.com Ta' Salvu u Marija Farmhouse - gozo.com/salvumaria/ Dar Taz-Zija - gozo.com/tazzija/ Ana’s Farmhouse - gozo.com/dhyana/ Stella Mares - www.gozo.com/stellamares Ghajn Damma - www.relaxgozoletting.com Ta' Lonza Farmhouse - www.gozogetaways.com

Bed and Breakfasts Mariblu Bed and Breakfast - Xewkija www.mariblugozo.com Lantern Guesthouse - Marsalforn www.gozo.com/lantern San Antonio Guest House - Xlendi www.clubgozo.com.mt Dar Ta Zeppi - Qala http://www.dartazeppi.com/ Poppetts Bed and Breakfast - Xaghra www.bedandbreakfast-gozo.com/ Lellux Bed and Breakfast - Qala www.gozobedandbreakfast.com/

Self Catering MobyDick Complex - www.mobydickgozo.com - Xlendi A+A Holiday Accomodation - www.stayingozo.com - Marsalforn Ulysses Village - www.mobydivesgozo.com - Xlendi Club Gozo - www.clubgozo.com.mt - Xlendi Villa Xemkija - www.cometogozo.com Avalon Luxury Apartments - www.gozo.com/avalon - Xlendi Blue Waters Holiday Apartments - www.gozo.com/bluewaters, Marsalforn Sea-View Flats - www.gozo.com/seaviewflats - Xlendi Ta’Maria - www.gozo.com/ta%27maria/apartments.php - Marsalforn St Joseph Apartments - www.gozo.com/stjoseph/ - Gharb Sea-Breeze Apartments - www.gozo.com/seabreeze - Xlendi Ta' Grezzja Maisonettes - www.gozo.com/tagrezzja/ - Zeebug Sea-Front Apartments - www.gozo.com/seafront - Marsalforn Vella’s Court Holiday Appartments - www.gozo.com/vellascourt - Xlendi Anfora House - www.gozo.com/anfora - Zeebug Island 3 - www.gozo.com/islandthree - Xlendi & Qala Foresteriaogygia - www.foresteriaogygia.com - Gharb Sunflower Apartments - www.gozo.com/zabbetta/sunflower.html - Xlendi Azure Retreats - www.azureretreats.com - Various Xlendi Gardens - www.gozo.com/xlendigardens/ - Xlendi Abacus Apartments - www.abacusgozo.com - Marsalforn

mygozo magazine 39

Visit our website to book your stay NOW

Office: Abraham Farmhouses, Gozitano Complex, Xewkija, Gozo - Malta. 4EL s -OB E-mail: info@abrahamgozofarmhouses.com

www.abrahamgozofarmhouses.com

Getting Around Whether you enjoy exploring by foot, bike, car, boat, plane, or public transport, Gozo is one of the most accessible islands that you could visit. To get the best out of what Gozo has to offer we certainly advise hiring a car for at least a couple of days, although having said that, there are other modes of transport that will allow you to see the best of what Gozo has to offer. Expect to pay around €20-€25 Euros per day depending on make and model of the car. We rcommend Gozo Garage (Tel: +356 21551866, www.gozogarage.com) and Mayjo (Tel: +356 21556678, www.mayjocarhire.com) One of the most exciting ways to see the Island is via the bus service that operates from the bus terminus in Victoria; a new service was introduced last year that covers the island extensively. Although the famous old buses have now been replaced the new bus system is a lot more dependable and is more frequent than the previous service. There are several types of prepaid tickets available to purchase. A standard one day ticket costs €2.60, a standard two hour ticket costs €2.20 and a standard seven-day ticket costs €12. The prepaid tickets are purchased before boarding the bus from the various outlets who are authorised to sell them including lotto ticket boots, Malta Post outlets and other authorised shops. Please see www.arriva.com.mt for more details. Over the last couple of years Gozo has seen the introduction of several companies offering sightseeing tours on open top, double deck buses. The companies offer trips around the island taking in all of the sights and sounds that Gozo has to offer and they are a fun way to see the island. There are currently two companies offering this kind of service, The Malta Sightseeing Company, and The City Sightseeing Company. The service offered by Malta sightseeing departs from Mgarr harbour and visits the Maritime Museum, Savina creativity centre, the Ggantija Temples and Xaghra Windmill, Calypso's Cave, Marsalforn, Ta’Pinu Basilica, The Crafts Village, The Azure

Window, Fontana cottage and Xlendi Bay. The tour ends back at Mgarr harbour and passes by the Victoria bus station a number of times. Passengers can get on and off the bus at any time. The tour operates daily from 09:30am every 45 minutes with the last bus leaving Mgarr at 3pm. The Gozo sightseeing tour costs €15 per person and tickets are valid for 24 hours. The tour takes circa 2 hours. Please see www.maltasightseeing.com for further details. City site seeing offer a similar tour of Gozo, their tour take in 10 stops visiting all of the major attractions on the island. Trip price for one adult is €15 and €9 for children. Please see www.city-sightseeing.com for more details. The Ferry service from Mgarr Harbour operated between Gozo and Malta by the Gozo Channel Company is the lifeblood for citizens on the island. There are many Gozitans who commute daily over to Malta for work but also to attend school and university. There are frequent ferry services between Gozo and Malta and the service operates 24/7. During the daytime the ferry operates roughly every 45 min between 06.00am and 21.00pm. Between 23.00pm and 05.00am the ferry operates roughly every 90 min. Ferry tickets for foot passengers costs €4.65 and for a car and driver the cost is €15.70 return. Please note that tickets are purchased at Cirkewwa, the Maltese side. See www.gozochannel.com for further details. For the sportier amongst our readers, hiring a bicycle is a great way to see the island. Although the island has several hills, for the most part cycling around Gozo isn’t too strenuous. A company called On Two Wheels rent out mountain bikes, mopeds and motorbikes. Please see www.ontwowheelsgozo.com for further details. A great way to see the island which is fun and exhilarating is on a quad bike. Hiring a quad bike allows you to see parts of Gozo where cars are not permissible. A company called Gozo Quad Hire rent high-tech quad bikes for periods of three hours, five hours, seven hours, or even for

a couple of days. Quad bike hire prices are as follows; three hours €45, 5 hours €55, 7 hours €65, 9 hours €75, if you hire the quad for two days or more the cost is €55 daily which includes a full tank of fuel, fully comprehensive insurance, and crash helmets. Please note that all drivers must be aged 25 or over. Please see www.gozoquadhire.com for further details. Taxi’s are readily available at the ferry terminal in Mgarr and in Victoria around the bus station, although during the evening times taxis’s can be pretty scarce and we advise booking ahead if you are planning on using a taxi for an evening trip out. There are a couple of companies who you can pre-book taxi’s with including, Mayjo and Gozo Garage. Those companies listed above also offer transfers between Malta Airport and your destination on Gozo. Customers have a choice of a split transfer, which involves two taxi’s, one taxi will take you from the airport to the ferry terminal in Cirkewwa, Malta, where you will be dropped off with your luggage (which will then be transported onto the ferry by Gozo Channel officials) and when the ferry docks in Gozo you will be picked up by another taxi who will take you to your final destination. Another choice is to take a direct transfer whereby you will be picked up from the airport and transferred directly to Gozo along with your luggage by the same taxi. Cost wise there is a slight difference, split taxi transfer costs circa 40 and a direct transfer circa 60. Another option is to take the bus between Malta Airport and Cirkewwa and then take a bus the other side from Mgarr. The Mgarr bus service coincides with the ferry schedule and at 2.20 is a good option for budget conscious travellers, tickets can be purchased at the Arriva stand at the airport.

of 1 to 2 hours of actual classroom based teaching on equipment and safety procedures, you will then normally be introduced into shallow waters were you will practise breathing in the water and you would then usually dive for around half an hour in the sea. Expect to pay about €45 for a beginner's lesson, although cost will vary from school to school. All diving schools also offer more advanced and longer courses, including CMAS, BSAC and PADI qualifications and also the opportunity to rent equipment for more experienced divers who hold the relevant qualifications to dive unaccompanied.

DIVING DIVING - WATERSPORTS

If you're reading this then the chances are that you are attending one of the many diving schools that are available on the island. Gozo is a very popular destination for many European, and in fact global divers and is known throughout the world as an excellent diving location with many caves, reefs and wrecks to explore. There are some excellent diving schools throughout the island many of them based in Xlendi and Marsalforn. All of the diving schools on the island of Gozo adhere to the highest safety procedures. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver there are courses available for all levels. Diving is possible all year round and underwater visibility is more than 30 metres. One of the main advantages of diving in Gozo is that many of the dive sites are accessible from the shore. The dive schools on the island are generally led by well-qualified multilingual instructors who have many years experience of diving around the shores. If you are new to diving there are a few legal requirements that have to be taken into consideration. The youngest age that you can dive is 10 years old and under 18’s will require written a parent or consent. Most of the courses on the island offer beginners courses which generally consist

Gozo has some excellent dive sites these include Billinghurst Cave, the Blue Hole and Chimney, Coral Cave, Crocodile Rock, Double Arch Reef, Fessej Rock, Fungus Rock, Reqqa Point, San Dimitri Point, Ta’Cenc, Wied-Il-Ghasri, Xatt l’Ahmar and Xlendi Cave and Reef. Over the past 13 years several ex Gozo Channel Ferries have been scuttled around Gozo and provide an excellent artificial reef for divers. The MV Xlendi was originally scuttled in 1999 in the waters off IX-Xatt, just to the West of Mgarr. The MV Xlendi sits on the bottom of the ocean, some 40 metres deep and what makes it fascinating to divers is that it is positioned up-side down. In 2006, MV Xlendi was joined by two more ships, The Comino Land and The Karwela. Snorkeling If you don't fancy donning a wet suit there are some excellent snorkelling sites located throughout the Islands and we highly recommend the Blue lagoon on Comino,

Mgarr-IX-Xini, The Inland Sea and San Blas Bay. Water Sports A great way to see the island is by hiring a self drive motorboat. It is possible to go around the island in a day, and is a great way to spend a day in the sun, take a picnic and enjoy the scenery. Xlendi pleasure cruises offer self drive boats out of Xlendi Bay. They have various boats available is available, booking is available on the pier in Xlendi as well as at their booking office in Marsalforn . They also offer boat trips to Comino and around the Island, please see www.xlendipleasurecruises.com or contact them on 0035699478119/2155 9967 for further details. Canoes, pedalos and trips on a banana boat can be booked via Lewis, once again at the pier in Xlendi. Lewis can be contacted on 0035699427917. A stay on Gozo would not be complete without a trip to the blue lagoon on the island of Comino. Gozo Diving Schools Gozo Aqua Sports - Marsalforn - +356 2156 3037 dive@gozoaquasports.com Blue Waters Dive Cove - Qala - +356 7953 6874 info@divebluewaters.com Gozo Diving - Xewkija - +356 7900 9565 audrey@gozodiving.com Calypso Diving Centre - Marsalforn - +356 2156 1757 info@calypsodivers.com Scuba Kings - Marsalforn - + 356 2156 1221 gozodivesschool@hotmail.com Moby Dives - Xlendi - +356 2156 4429 - info@mobydives.com Atlantis Diving Centre - Marsalforn- +356 2155 4685 diving@atlantisgozo.com St Andrew’s Divers Cove - Xlendi - +356 2155 1301 standrew@gozodive.com Bubbles Diving Centre - Marsalforn - +356 9944 8864 david.hayler@orange.fr Extra Divers - Grand Hotel, Mgarr - +356 2156 3840 extradivers@grandhotelmalta.com Utina Diving Collge - Xlendi - +356 2155 0514 diving@utina-diving.com Nautic Team - Marsalforn - +356 2155 8507 nauticteam@fastnet.net.mt

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Join Xlendi Pleasure cruises on a trip around Gozo and Comino, sit back and relax as we take you to places that a car won’t take you too. We visit coves, caves, the best beaches including San Blas Bay and The Blue Lagoon, Comino. We cater for your every need with an on-board bar and food available throughout the day. With over 30 years experience we guarantee that nobody will show you the Islands like we do. To book one of our trips please call +356 9947 8119

Departures daily from the main jetty in Mgarr, please call to conﬁrm sailing options available, which include; Full Day Trips Half Day Trips Night and Day parties Charters for special events such as wedding parties Free transport is available from our booking oﬃce in Xlendi (The Canoe Stand) and Marsalforn, Bakery Street.

Email: info@xlendicruises.com Website: www.xlendicruises.com

Looker 350 Glass Bottom Boat Trips

If you are looking for a fun and exhilarating way to spend your holiday then join us on board our new Apollo - Looker 350 - Glass Bottom Speed Boat, where you are sure to have an experience like never before. Operating from Mgarr Harbour, we will wisk you over to Comino where you can relax at the blue lagoon for a couple of hours and then let us whisk you back to Gozo again. Gozo has some fantastic underwater scenery, a reason why the Island is popular with divers, with the glass bottom you are sure to see some fantastic underwater life. Please see www.xlendicruises.com for further details or call, +356 99478119

Now Open, a warm welcome awaits you at Xlendi’s newest bar and eatery, The Pirates Galley. Ideally located on the waters edge, The Pirates Galley is a great location to sit down and relax whilst enjoying some great food and drink. On the menu is Pizza, Pasta, grilled meats and snacks, all prepared fresh on the premises by our experienced chefs. If you fancy a drink or two then our bar is well stocked with local and foreign beers and a good choice of wine. Join us in the evening for regular live music and watch the world go by in Xlendi. See you soon. The Pirates Galley, Xlendi Promenade, Tel: +356 99478119

ADVENTURE The Maltese Islands are a paradise for adventure lovers from Kayaking to Climbing, Biking to Hiking almost anything is possible. Spoiled by the sun surrounded by crystal clear waters and a unique landscape Gozo offers a perfect all year natural playground. With its Mediterranean climate adventure activities are possible all year round with the winter months leaning towards land based activities and the summer months water based activities. Kayaking is a great way to explore Gozo’s diverse and varied coastline with its caves, hidden coves and picturesque bays and beaches. With Comino only a ten minute paddle away it is the best way to see the islands taking your time to enjoy the water from a different perspective. Gozo is naturally rocky and is a hidden treasure for climbers with its numerous inland crags that are rarely visited by tourist to it's stunning sea cliffs offering long multi-pith climbs for the more experienced climber. There are bolted sport climbs that are suitable for beginners up to experienced climbers and the island now boasts the longest roof climb in the world, bouldering, traditional climbs and deep water soloing in the summer months are also well developed. Making Gozo a destination that can only grow in popularity for climbers.

Gozo’s national symbol is the three hills and even though the highest point on the island is no greater than 450 meters above sea level there are a great number of cycling routes that offer a wide range of challenges. They lead through quaint villages, along quiet roads, peaceful hills, rough seaside tracks, picturesque valleys and historical sites.

contacting Gozo Adventures who offer an authentic and exilerating way to experience the best that the Island has to offer including activity tours, kayaking, eco tours and climbing and abseiling. Tel: +356 99994592.

Victor Muscat horse riding offer a unique and adventurous horse riding experience through the hills and valleys of Gozo. Riding on Hiking is one of the most relaxing and horseback is a unique way to see the island. We rewarding activities as Gozo has a special advise contacting victor at least two days before charm. If you are looking for peace and quiet you wish to ride to avoid disappointment. there are a number of walks that take you along Victor also offers courage to most of the island the tops of cliffs and winding valleys with we can sit back and relax and experience the stunning scenery and local treasures. During hidden beauties of those are aboard one of their the winter months the island is lush and green stylish carriages. For further details please see www.vmcarriages.com for further details. covered with wild flowers and scented herbs, this is also the time to enjoy the bustling life of Gozo pride Tours offer a selection Victoria or explore one of the most diverse of tours that will give you a good taste of what histories in Europe with its temples and archeological abundance. During in the the Island has to offer. Their Jeep and Quad Bike Safari’s are able to reach places that are summer the island is more arid but walking along the coastline and beaches one can take not accessible by coaches or mini buses, taking the opportunity to cool down in the sea shortcuts through the countryside giving you swimming and snorkeling. the chance to take dramatic photographs and see breathtaking scenery. Gozo pride tours run from Monday to Saturday and price includes If you are active the island will keep you entertained for weeks and if you take the time transport to and from accommodation, ferry tickets (if coming from Malta) and lunch. They to explore it will reveal years of history and beautiful locations. If you are visiting for only offer half day and full day packages. Please see www.gozopridetours.com for further details. a short period then we would recommend

Sea Kayaking

Paddle Gozo and Comino’s coastline by kayak and discover the islands stunning scenery from a different perspective. Visit sea caves, secluded beaches and picturesque inlets. Half day €45, Full day € 65 pp including a picnic lunch.

ACTIVITY - ADVENTURE - EXPERIENCE

Activity Tours

Explore areas of the island that are rarely visited by choosing from two of the following activities to try in one day: *Climbing & Abseiling *Swimming & Snorkelling * Hiking *Biking. Tour €65 pp including a picnic lunch.

Eco Tours

Discover more about life in Gozo by meeting local people at work and at play. Learn about daily life, past traditions, and sample local food. Tour €75 pp including a restaurant lunch.

Climbing & Abseiling If you are looking to climb or abseil on Gozo then look no further! Our experienced guides will take you to the best locations on the island to suit your experience and ability. Half day €45, Full day € 65 pp including a picnic lunch.

7 Triq Sant Indrija, Victoria, Gozo, VCT 1250 Office: (00 356) 21 564 592, Cornil (00 356) 9999 4689 www.gozoadventures.com - info@gozoadventures.com

mygozo magazine 45

Beach Life

Sun worshippers who visit Gozo do not leave the Island disapointed, the Island offers some excellent beaches

Ramla Bay is one of the biggest and most family friendly beaches on the Maltese Islands

ozo is blessed with some fantastic beaches and whether you are looking for somewhere quiet to relax or somewhere more lively, Gozo has it all to offer. Sun worshippers are quite literally spoilt for choice, from the golden sandy beach of Ramla Bay to the idyllic Mgarr-Ix- Xini, you won’t leave disapointed. Ramla Bay Ramla Bay, the Islands largest and most popular beach is the Jewel in Gozo’s crown. The golden sand draws thousands of visitors each year, the sea is warm and crystal clear and is very child friendly. Numerous beachside restaurants offering excellent snacks and a la carte food can be found at the entrance to the beach and are open all day throughout the summer. There are numerous companies who hire sun umbrellas and chairs, prepare to hagle for the best price as they can seem expensive. Ramla is found to the North of the island and can be accessed via the villages of Nadur and Xaghra. Bus number 302 operates between Ramla and Dwejra via Victoria. San Blas Bay San Blas bay is one of Gozo’s hidden gems. It is a small sandy beach that offers excellent swimming with shallow clear waters making it ideal

for young families. Accessibility to San Blas is via a steep hill but shuttles ferry people up and down the steep climb during summer months. The shuttles cost circa 2 each way and is worth it. San Blas can be accessed via the village of Nadur. There is a snack bar serving drinks and snacks etc. Take the bus route 303 which runs between Victoria and Mgarr via Nadur and then walk from Nadur centre, be warned though, the walk could take circa 15-25 minutes. Hondoq Bay Hondoq, to the south east of the island is a firm favorite with Gozitans. Looking out towards comino, Hondoq is a great place to snorkle and relax. Hondoq is also a great place to hold a summer BBQ. It is accesible via the village of Qala. Mgarr Ix-Xini Another hidden gem, Mgarr Ix-Xini is a beautifal protected inlet that offers excellent diving conditions. There is an exellent sea-front restaurant that offers the freshest fish possible. The beach is accessed via the villages of Sannat or Xewkija. Mgarr Ix-Xini is also a very popular diving location. mygozo magazine 46

Marsalforn

Xatt Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ahmar

Xlendi A firm favorite amongst Gozitans and Maltese a like, Xlendi is a great family beach. Although the beach is relatively small, there are ample sunbathing spots dotted around the bay including the pier and at the headland to the left of the bay. Sun Loungers are available for rent to the left of the bay and for real sun worshippers head to the area in front of the the old Fort. With sports activities, boat hire and plenty of sea-front restaurants there is plenty to do for all of the family.

Dwejra - The Inland Sea The Inland Sea is a unique swimming experience, a natural lagoon, you cannot fail to be impressed by the tranquility of the surroundings. The water can tend to be quite rocky so be prepared to take some water shoes. There are excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities to be found at the Inland Sea. There are several snack bars serving food and drink.

Marsalforn Another family favorite Marsalforn has a nice sandy beach and there are plenty of bars, restaurants and Ice Cream shops to choose from. Swimming opportunities are also possible to the left of the bay just past Otters Restaurant and around the bay to the left you will find the quieter bays of Obajjar and Xwieni. Obajjar has several restaurants including a fantastic Belgian restaurant called Chez Armand.

Comino - Blue Lagoon Hiring a boat and heading over to the Blue Lagoon on Comino is a must visit on any trip to Gozo. The sea is the bluest on the Islands and offers some crystal clear snorkelling opportunities. The Blue Lagoon can tend to get quite busy during the summer months with boats from Gozo and Malta descending on Comino, we advise heading over there early.

Dahlet Qorrot Dahlet Qorrot is a small inlet nestled in the northern cliff face of Gozo and can be reached from Nadur. The pebble beach is small but you can also swim off the quay or the docks on both sides of the bay.

Xatt - Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ahmar Located just below Fort Chambray, Xatt Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ahmar is a small, rocky inlet that offers good snorkelling and diving opportunities, not recommended for families but for stronger swimmers and divers. mygozo magazine 47

Blue Lagoon, Comino, A must visit on your holiday

Weddings In Gozo....

Your Local Expert

Thinking Of Getting Married on Gozo ? Talk To The Experts And Let Your Dream Wedding Happen...

What we offer First hand knowledge of getting married on Gozo Excellent personal service Unrivaled access to all of the top suppliers and venues Thorough knowledge of all of the legalities of both Religious and Civil weddings On-site agents in Ireland, The UK, Gozo and France Tel: +356877656321 Email: info@weddingsingozo.com www.weddingsingozo.com

A GOZO WEDDING

A Day to Remember The Happy Couple Outside The Church

A Gozo Wedding

Many people dream of getting married abroad and what better place to get married than on the Island of Gozo. For couples looking to tie the knot further a field , in a country where the sun is guaranteed to be shining, Gozo has plenty of options available to suit all tastes and budgets. From beautiful Churches to stunning hotels, getting married on the Island of Gozo is an option you should seriously consider if you are looking to tie the knot abroad.

My wife, Elaine and myself were lucky enough to have the opportunity to get married on the Island back in August 2008. With Elaine being Irish and myself English we decided that when we were looking for wedding venues we would choose a neutral venue. When we were holidaying on Gozo in 2007 we visited St George’s Basilica and we didn’t look at any other Churches as we knew that this was where we wanted to get married. As soon as we arrived back in Ireland we started arranging everything, we contacted the Bishops office in Gozo, the marriage registry in Victoria and our venue for the wedding

breakfast, The Ta’Frenc Restaurant. Everyone we spoke to was extremely helpful and friendly and very open to foreigners getting married on their beautiful Island. Some may think that it is a difficult process getting married abroad but the process couldn’t have been any simpler. Our experience was fantastic and one that we were lucky enough to share with over 120 friends from both the UK and Ireland, many of whom had never visited Gozo previously, but who will certainly be returning in the future. Our ceremony took place in the beautiful St George’s Basilica in Victoria, everything was perfect, the weather, the Priest, the choir and of course the beautiful bride, who I have to say arrived on time. The wedding party were taken to the venue in a vintage 1930’s Old Gozo Bus, a wonderful experience for everyone. After the ceremony we held a drinks reception in St George’s square which was hosted by the wonderful Dione, the owner of The Grapes Bar located on the square. It really did feel like we were in a movie and we were treated like royalty. It was a great experience having our first dance as a married couple in St George’s Square surrounded by mygozo magazine 50

Legal Requirements Legality of Marriage Marriages in Malta are subject to the provisions of the Marriage Act, 1975. The marriage of European citizens conducted in Malta is legally binding under their own legal jurisdiction. This is also the case for citizens from most other countries wishing to marry in Malta. Residency Requirements There are no minimum residency requirements for getting married in Malta. Marriage Application In order to apply for a Marriage Application (Request for the Publication of Banns) you must complete Form RZ1 and submit it to the Marriage Registry in Valetta or Gozo together with the documentation listed below. This applies to both civil and religious marriages. The application must be received at least 6 weeks prior to the date of your proposed marriage but no more than 3 months before. On arriving in Malta prior to your wedding you are required to visit the Marriage Registry in Valetta or Gozo to finalise matters. At this visit you will be required to produce your passports. On your marriage application you need to state your intended place of marriage. If you decide to change your intended place of marriage after you have submitted your marriage application, the marriage registry will need at least three weeks notice. If you are having a religious wedding you will also need to state the name of your priest. Required Documentation The following documentation is required to get married in Malta. •Request for the Publications of the banns (Form RZ1) •Declarations on Oath (Form RZ2) •The declaration must be signed on separate forms by each of the parties in the presence of a Commissioner of Oaths attached to a Maltese Diplomatic Mission or in the presence of a Commissioner of Oaths (e.g. solicitor, a justice of the peace, a Notary etc), who must affix their personal stamp or seal. •Original long Birth Certificate which include the names of both your parents •In the event that your full birth certificate does not contain particulars of your parents, like in some of the American States, a Statutory Declaration is required from a relative or friend, who knows the parents concerned and can confirm the Full Current Names of both parents as well as the Maiden Name of the mother in writing. The friend/relative and the solicitor on his own letterhead and /or with his stamp/seal

must sign the documents. •Passport •Photocopy is sufficient for your Marriage Application •Original must be bought to the wedding ceremony If you have not been previously married •A Free Status Certificate from your Local Registrar - .i.e.: •Certificate of No Impediment (UK Citizens only) •Certificate de coutume & MP2A form (Irish Citizens only) If you are divorced •Decree Absolute & previous marriage certificates •Affidavit by a 3rd person drawn up in the presence of a solicitor, stating that since the date of your divorce, you did not re-marry If you are widowed •Certificate of 1st marriage •Death certificate of former spouse •Affidavit by a 3rd person drawn up in the presence of a solicitor, stating that since the death of your former spouse, you did not re-marry If you are under 18 •Parental consent to marry If you have changed your name •A notarised copy of the Deed Poll If you are getting married in Gozo you will also be required to produce the following documentation •Particulars of your witnesses and photocopies of their passport, their place of birth, residence and father's name Note: •Documents which are not in Maltese or English must be translated and legally authenticated •The Free Status Certificates and RZ2 form are only valid for 3 months •Originals or true copies of your documents will not be returned to you Witnesses You must have two witnesses who are 18 years of age or over. Certificate of Marriage Marriage Certificates may be obtained by application to the Civil Status Section: Public Registry 26 Old Treasury Street Valletta Gozo Marriage Office Public Registry - Marriage Registry Europe Street, Victoria, Gozo Victoria, Gozo

our friends. We were escorted to the venue in a lovely vintage car supplied by Franks garage. A wonderful evening was enjoyed at the venue for the wedding breakfast, the Ta’Frenc Restaurant in Marsalforn, a fitting setting for a wonderful day. We were treated to some wonderful live music by Johhny Cash and Band and the party went on until the small hours. All of the wedding party including all of our guests stayed at various locations in Xlendi, a perfect location for a large group. We had the joy of staying in a penthouse suite at the Moby Dick Complex, where the staff couldn’t have treated us any better. I would recommend getting married on Gozo to anyone. There are some great locations to get married in on Gozo from the quaint Lunzjata Valley Chapel, to the grand Church in the Citadel. Civil ceremonies are also possible on the island, Hotel Ta’cenc has a wonderful Palazzo set on it’s luxurious grounds where couples can tie the knot and then enjoy some food. Other excellent options are the Ta-Mena Estate, The Calypso Hotel, La Stanza Restaurant who can also offer outside catering as well as fine wedding cakes from their sister company, Melissa’s Cakes. mygozo magazine 51

A Taste Of Gozo A visit to Gozo wouldn't be complete without sampling some of the local produce the Island has to offer, there are many unique products that are made on Gozo and the Maltese Islands and leaving the Island without trying them would be a crime. Gozitian/Maltese produce ranges from Alcoholic Liqueurs to beautiful hand-made lace that is famous the world over. Gozitan Wine Thanks to its climate Gozo produces some excellent wines that are readily available in shops, restaurants and bars at very reasonable prices. From Table Wine to award winning Cabernet-Sauvignon, all budgets and tastes are catered for. There are several large scale wine producers operating in Gozo, Marsovin, Victoria Heights, Ta'Mena, Delicata, and Tal-Massar all have operations on the Island and produce high quality Red, White and Rose wines. Throughout the island, especially in local Bars you will find wine stored in huge containers, this is the famous homemade wines that have been made by the local independent wineries and can be picked up for less than 40 cents a glass. Once a year the wine producer Marsovin holds an annual wine festival in Gozo, this is well worth a visit if you are in town at the same time, it usually takes place in July but more information can be found at www.marsovinwinefestival.com Gozo Cheese Gbejna, Gozitan cheese, is a round cheeslet made normally from goat or sheep’s milk, salt and rennet. Gbejna is shaped in a cheese hurdle made of dried reeds, although now plastic ones are also used. They are traditionally dried in small ventilated rooms, with windows protected by a special mesh mosquito net. It is said that in the past sea water, rather than rennet, was used as a curdling agent. Gbejniet are prepared and served in a variety of forms: fresh (friski or tal-ilma), sundried (moxxa, bajda or t'Ghawdex), salt cured (mahsula) or peppered (tal-bżar). The fresh variety has a smooth texture and a milky flavour and is kept in their own whey in a similar manner to mozzarella. The sundried variety has a more definite, nutty almost musky taste, and is fairly hard. The peppered variety is covered in crushed black pepper and cured, after which they may be stored in oil or pickled

in vinegar. Their sharp taste becomes more piquant the more they age and they also develop a crumbly texture. Gozo Honey Gozo is as famous for its honey as it is for the Calypso Island and you will see many homemade varieties of honey being sold by single producers to more large scale producers, but there is one distinct taste in common with them all, Thyme. The honey is made using time-aged process’s that haven’t changed for hundreds of years. The Islands honey is traditionally used in seasonal sweet desserts such as; "qaghaq ta' l-ghasel" honey rings, "kwarezimal" baked dough’s topped with honey and almonds eaten during Lent, and "xkumvat" a traditional sweet served at a child's first birthday party. Sea-Salt The production of sea-salt on Gozo has been a tradition that has lasted into the 21st century and has stood up to the test of modern salt production. At the salt pans of Xwejni Bay, close to Marsalforn on the North of the Island you will see methods that have been passed down through generations of families. Put simply the salt is collected in natural pools and once drained a film of sea salt is left. This is then left to dry in the sun and collected once dry. You can even buy the salt direct from the producers or from the numerous craft shops around the Island. Bajtra For those impartial to an alcoholic beverage, a trip to Gozo would not be complete without tasting the Moorish liqueur that is Bajtra. Bajtra is made from Prickly pear, a plant that can be seen throughout the island. The prickly pear plant made its way to the Maltese islands via returning Spanish Conquistadores from their trips to the Americas in the 16th Century and adapted itself to the Mediterranean climate. Pastizzi Whilst exploring the island you may notice a small diamond shaped pastry being served in bars and restaurants. These are in fact Pastizzi and form a staple part of the Gozitan diet. Pastizzi are to Gozitans what sausage and bacon are to the British and Irish and for as little as 20 cents, this Gozitan delight can be enjoyed. Made from filo pastry they are normally filled with cheese or peas and served mainly during the morning time.

A selection of products made by Ta’Mena. See www.tamena-gozo.com for further details Cisk Beer lovers amongst our readers will no doubt enjoy a bottle or two of Cisk during their holiday, the national Beer that is brewed over on the mainland by farsons brewery. Cisk has a light, crisp taste to it and has won numerous international awards for its lager range. Cisk Lager is a golden-coloured, bottomfermented lager with an alcohol content of 4.2%. The name "Cisk" originates from Giuseppe Scicluna's nickname "Ic-Cisk" or in English, "The cheque". Scicluna was notable for his use of cheques, and due to the unpopularity of the payment method in Malta at that time, some of Scicluna's clients had the habit of referring to him as "Cisk". Other than Cisk, Farsons also produces Blue Label (Ale) and Hopleaf (Pale-Ale) as well as the non-alcoholic citrus soft drink, Kinnie. Ta’Dbiegi crafts centre Although not food and drink related the Ta’Dbiegi crafts centre, situated between the villages of Gharb and San Lawrenz offers a real taste of what home made products Gozo has to offer. Here you can watch local craftsmen working on their skills and purchase homemade souvenirs including the world famous Gozo lace, jewellery, wine, honey, and olives. You can also watch those in glass being blown it is a great place to buy souvenirs to take home. The craft Centre is located just before the Keplinski Hotel and open daily between 10.00am and 17.00pm during the summer months. Fontana Cottage Industry On the road down to Xlendi from Victoria, you will find the Fontana Cottage Industry, a place that epitomizes Gozo’s reputation as developing cottage industries. Here you can enjoy sun-dried tomatoes, olive pâté, local cheeses, wines, liqueurs and all manner of fine products.

mygozo magazine 52

GOZO

Magic Moments

Ex Pat and mother of two Heidi Bonnici tells us about her love of Gozo and what she enjoys best about living on the Island. Whilst not writing for us, Heidi can be found at The Moby Dick in Xlendi .

Tell us about the first time you visited Gozo. The first time I visited Gozo was April 1989 , the first thing I remember was the beautiful blue sea as I crossed over on the ferry, I spent my days swimming in Xlendi and my evenings at La Grotta (local nightclub). I especially loved how safe it was to walk and hitch hike across the island and how easy it was to make friends with the locals. Why did you decide to settle down in Gozo ? My mother decided to move to Gozo as she had fallen in love with the Island and as I had just left school she brought me with her, at the time she said try it for a few months and if you don't like it you can go back, needless to say I am still here. Care to share any local secrets, places to eat, things to see, etc ? A visit to Ta Pinu church is a must do as is the Citadella and Ggantija temples in Xaghra, There are a huge array of restaurants, most local villages have a band or football club which are cheap and cheerful and you get to mix with the locals. There are many shows going on throughout the year whether it be dance groups or opera which are worth seeing and are put on by local groups. and organisations. Do you speak Maltese and if so how long did it take you to learn ? When I first moved here I worked in a

restaurant which mainly served local people so I had to pick up as much Maltese as I could but it was very basic, I can read and understand Maltese, but still refrain from speaking it as I tend to mix some words up so you can say I am still learning. Is there a lot of support for ex pats looking to make Gozo their home ?, are there any societies, support groups etc ? There is a lot of support for Ex pats that move here, The locals are very helpful and friendly and will help you out any way they can even if you have just popped into their shop for a carton of milk. There are also a lot of Ex pat groups here and the British Residents Association, who do monthly activities and quiz nights etc. What is it that you love about Gozo ? The thing I love most about Gozo apart from the clear blue seas and sunshine, is the relaxed way of life and the feeling of safeness, especially where children are concerned, My children can spend day and night at Xlendi and I know they are safe and everyone knows each other.

Top to bottom, Taâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Pinu Church, The Blue Lagoon and a Gozo Ferry

What towns and Villages would you recommend a foreigner buying a holiday home in ? If a foreigner wanted good views I would recommend Zebbug which is also a very quiet village, Xaghra and Gharb if they wanted to be located near ex pats, and for more activity Nadur and Victora. I would recommend Xlendi or Marsalforn to be by the sea. Any thoughts on the proposed tunnel between Malta and Gozo ? Although I am not a good traveller and don't like the ferry in rough weather, I do not agree with having a tunnel link, Gozo is set apart from Malta and I feel with a tunnel it will lose its whole identity and will ruin what we have, It would also be a shame to lose the beauty of the ferry ride over to Gozo. mygozo magazine 54

PROPERTY

Live The Mediterranean Dream

OFFICE ADDRESS: Re/Max Property Center, 11, Independence Square Victoria, Gozo, MALTA Tel: (+356) 21566284 Email: gozo@remax.com.mt Website: www.remax-malta.com

By Re/Max, Gozo’s Leading Estate Agency Have you ever dreamed of owning a place in the sun, surrounded by the beautiful crystal-clear sea? A beautiful place where you can retire? Or making a solid and safe investment? Then look no further then Gozo, a hidden gem in the heart of the Mediterranean enjoying a fantastic climate, a wonderful quality of life, excellent cuisine, picturesque beaches and inhabited by warm and friendly people.

Why Gozo? To many, Gozo is truly an undiscovered Eden, with plenty of open spaces, picturesque valleys, sea views from any hilltop, windmills, temples, beaches and coves. The pace of life in Gozo is relaxed, at ease with itself and the world. Unlike the bigger island of Malta, which, though beautiful, has an urban air, Gozo is more rural, with farmlands and gorgeous hilly scenery. Over 27,000 people inhabit the island and this amount to one-twelfth of the overall population of Malta. When compared to the overall area of the Maltese Islands, Gozo covers approximately one-third of that area. This means that the island of Gozo is not overpopulated, and therefore greener, quite and more peaceful. It is a complex, intricate place, full of discoveries – ancient heritage sites, superb dive sites, fine beaches, good restaurants and friendly people who radiate the typical Mediterranean spontaneity and joie de vivre. Throughout the year, but especially in summer churches hold village festas heralded by fireworks, banners, bunting and parades of the patron saints… Every day is literally like a holiday!

A place in the sun

A holiday with a difference

Gozo has built a second-to-none reputation as a leading Mediterranean destination for anyone wanting to purchase a holiday or retirement home or simply as an investment. Several celebrities own their own properties in Gozo or visit the Island on a regular basis. Although you don't really hear about it when they are there, that's probably the main reason that they do come to Gozo.

Re/Max also provides a large selection of top-notch exquisite self-catering character houses and villas with private pool and bbq facilities for rent. Most of these character houses are over 200 years old and have been expertly converted to cater for the modern comforts of the 21st century, thus providing a luxury accommodation. You can literally pretend to be a Gozitan and do your daily shopping at the outdoor markets which are filled with locally grown produce, or buy fresh fish straight off the boat down in the harbors. One can also take advantage to try the local dishes at the island’s many restaurants, cafes and bars. Re/Max estate agency offers complete holiday service packages designed to make your stay an unforgettable experience. And if you are planning to retire or simply get a taste of the Mediterranean life before buying a property, Re/Max can also offer properties on long-term basis.

Choice of properties includes the famous traditional Gozitan Farmhouses overlooking some peaceful valley, apartments and luxurious villas in quiet Mediterranean settings as well as Houses of Character. Sea views are never hard to find wherever you choose to stay! According to the European Mortgage Federation (EMF), during the last 40 years, the local housing market has recorded gains of around 8% annually. Remember that Gozo is a very small island, leaving us with the net effect that land is a very limited resource. Several building restrictions are in place and no development can take place outside the village building scheme while character houses cannot be demolished. And by virtue of the basic economic concept (supply vs demand), prices are always on the increase thus guaranteeing a good return on your investment.

Your Property Guide To

Gozo is also one of the cheapest places to live in Europe with groceries, clothing, furniture and utility services all being reasonable priced. Crime is practically non-existent. Should you require medical care, you are in good hands as our islands rank 10th in the world for the medical standards. And by the way, there is no real estate tax!

A price for a typical two bedroom holiday apartment starts from as low as €80,000. Houses of character start from around €175,000 while a farmhouse/house with pool and/or garden start from €350,000 and up. Villas and bungalow prices range from approx. €400,000 upwards. The buying procedure is simple and straight forward plus it protects both the vendor and the buyer unlike in some other countries where there may be Gazumping or outbidding. Re/Max estate agency is renowned for having the largest selection of properties in Gozo thus ensuring that we are always in a position to propose a very comprehensive and broad selection to meet every budget and requirements.

The local property experts Re/Max has been established as a leading Real Estate Agency in Malta and Gozo for a number of years. The company forms part of a brand that is seen in 70 countries and has over 6500 offices with 120,000 associates. The Re/Max Gozo office is situated in the heart of the capital city, Victoria. The office is renowned for having the largest selection of houses and apartments both for sale and letting. Should you be interested in viewing properties, our professional and friendly staff at our Gozo branch will be more then pleased to meet with you and show you a selection of properties. They will also be able to assist you with any queries that you might have regarding the purchase and letting of property, as well as taking up residence and settling in. The Sales Associates will carry out all negotiations to obtain the best price and the most favorable conditions agreeable to both vendors and purchasers. Clients wishing to view property in Gozo may arrange to be picked up from Mgarr Harbour without having to transport their car to Gozo if they are staying on the mainland Malta.

Gozo is the best kept secret, and it’s yours to discover and be a part of…

i Useful Numbers Ambulence - 196 Consumer Protecttion - 2125 0221 Direct Dialing Code (Malta/Gozo) - +356 Directory Enquiries - 1182 Emergency - 112 Emergency Rescue by Helicopter - 2124 4371 Emergency Rescue By Patrol Boat - 2123 8797 Fire Brigade - 199 Flight Enquiries - 2124 9600 Gozo Channel Ferry - 2155 6114 Gozo General Hospital - 2156 1600 Gozo Passport Oﬃce - 2156 0770 Police - 2122 4001-7 Time Check - 195 Weather Forecast - 5004 3848 Pharmacies Lauretana Pharmacy Għajnsielem - 36 Mgarr Road 21563017 Tony's Pharmacy Marsalforn – Qbajjar Road 21563617 Nadur Pharmacy Nadur – 28th April 1688 Square 21563589 St. Joseph Pharmacy Qala – 28 St. Joseph Square 21555348 Abela's Pharmacy Victoria – 42 De Soldanis Street 21556170 Azzopardi Pharmacy Victoria – Capuchin's Street 21563233 Batu Pharmacy Victoria – 38 Palm Street 21551814 Castle Pharmacy Victoria – 2 Independence Square 21556970 Palm Pharmacy Victoria – 2 Palm Street 21558388 Taċ-Ċawla Pharmacy Victoria – 'Marga' Dr. A. Tabone Street 21557819 Joyce's Pharmacy Xaghra – 8th September Avenue 21561486 St. John's Pharmacy Xewkija – 85 Independence Street 21563052 Electricity Electricity supply is 240 volts and the three pin 13 amp plug is used in Gozo and Malta. Public Holidays The Maltese Islands enjoy 14 public holidays, most shops and museums close on these days. 1st January New Year's Day 10th February St. Paul's Shipwreck 19th March St. Joseph's Day March / April Good Friday 31st March Freedom Day 1st May Labour Day 7th June Sette Giugno 29th June St. Peter & St. Paul 15th August The Assumption (Santa Maria) 8th September Victory Day (Nativity of the Virgin Mary) 21st September Independence Day 8th December The Immaculate Conception 13th December Republic Day 25th December Christmas Day Currency - Euro Language - The national languages of Malta and Gozo are Maltese and English. Driving - The Maltese drive on the left hand side Petrol Stations Cini Service Station - Victory Square, Xaghra Vella Service Station - Triq Fortunato Mizzi, Victoria J.A.Borg Service Station - Mgarr Rd, Victoria Banks HSBC - Republic Street, Victoria Bank of Valletta - Republic Street, Victoria Lombard Bank - Ninu Cremona Street, Victoria APS Bank - Republic Street, Victoria

USEFUL INFORMATION

Hairdressers Looks Hair Salon - Enrico Mizzi Street, Victoria, +356 2156 3345 Toni and Guy - Arkadia Shopping Centre, +356 2155 4305 Michelle Hairdressing - Orienti Plaza, Republic Street, +356 2155 1783 Mobile Phone Operators Vodafone - www.vodafone.com.mt Go-Mobile - www.go.com.mt English Speaking Church Services Sunday - 10:00am – Sacred Heart Seminary Chapel, Enrico Mizzi Street, Victoria 11:15am – Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Xlendi (July, August and September) National Newspapers (In English) Times of Malta - www.timesofmalta.com The Malta Independant - www.independent.com.mt Malta Today - www.maltatoday.com.mt Summer Ferry Schedule Depart - Mgarr Gozo 00.45 (Daily) 02.00 (Daily) 03.30 (Daily) 05.00 (Daily) 06.00 (Daily) 06.30 (Mon - Fri Exc. PH) 06.45 (Sat, Sun & PH) 07.00 (Mon - Fri Exc. PH) 07.30 (Daily) 08.15 (Daily) 09.00 (Daily) 09.45 (Daily) 10.30 (Daily) 11.15 (Daily) 12.00 (Daily) 12.45 (Daily) 13.30 (Daily) 14.15 (Daily) 15.00 (Daily) 15.45 (Daily) 16.30 (Daily) 17.15 (Daily) 18.00 (Daily) 18.45 (Daily) 19.30 (Daily) 20.15 (Daily) 21.00 (Daily) 21.45 (Daily) 23.00 (Daily)

Depart Cirkewwa Malta 01.15 (Daily) 02.35 (Daily) 04.00 (daily) 05.45 (Daily) 06.30 (Mon - Fri Exc. PH) 06.45 (Sat, Sun & PH) 07.00 (Mon - Fri Exc. PH) 07.30 (Daily) 08.15 (Daily) 09.00 (Daily) 09.45 (Daily) 10.30 (Daily) 11.15 (Daily) 12.00 (Daily) 12.45 (Daily) 13.30 (Daily) 14.15 (Daily) 15.00 (Daily) 15.45 (Daily) 16.30 (Daily) 17.15 (Daily) 18.00 (Daily) 18.45 (Daily) 19.30 (Daily) 20.15 (Daily) 21.00 (Daily) 21.45 (Daily) 22.15 (Daily) 23.35 (Daily) Jelly Fish

Jelly Fish are quite common around the Maltese Islands, if you are unfortunate enough to be stung then we recommend the following steps. Act quickly and calmly to remove the tentacles, stop the stinging, and deactivate any toxin. 1) Get out of the water 2) Rinse the affected area with sea water. Do not use fresh water. 3) If you see any tentacles, carefully lift them off the skin and remove them with a stick, shell, credit card, or towel (just not your bare hand). 4) If you see any signs of an allergic reaction, call 112 immediately. Symptoms could include difficulty breathing, nausea, or dizziness. Some redness and swelling is normal, but if it spreads outward from the sting or if you see hives on other parts of the body, that could indicate an allergic response. 5) At this stage you want to inativate the toxin, vinegar, baking powder or even urine is effective. Hot seawater is also great.

mygozo magazine 58

mygozo magazine 59

1 Kilometer

1 Mile

San Lawrence

Ghasri

Munxar

11 10

Marsalforn

Sannat

Victoria

Zebbug

Reqqa Point

Fontana

Kercem

Xlendi

Santa Lucija

Ghammar

Forna Forna Point

Gharb

Hekka Hekka Point

San Blas

Maellieha Mellieha Point Point

Mgarr

Nadur

Ghajnsielem

Ramla

Xaghra

Mgarr Ix Xini

Xewkija

Hondoq

Qala

Dahlet Qorrot

Comino

Qala Point

ACTIVITY - ADVENTURE - EXPERIENCE

1: Azure Window 2: Ta Dbiegi Craft Village 3: Ta’ Pinu Basilica 4: Wied Il Mielah Sea Arch 5: Ta’ Gordan Lighthouse 6: The Citadel 7: Calypso’s Cave 8: Ggantija Temples 9: Blue Lagoon 10: Ta Cenc Cliffs 11: Cart Ruts & Dolmans 12: Sannap Cliffs

Wardija Point

Dwejra Bay

San Dimitri Point

Tickets also available on the Bus Be Aware of Cheap Imitations!

North R o

15 stop

South Ro

15 stops

ute/Red

including

over 44 stops

ute/Blu

e Tour

Tour

Market

every 30 Minutes

Gozo Sightseeing

every 45 Minutes

15 stops

luding a 45min Ty a & Stop in Mdina stop) in Qormi (45min at Razzett l-Antik

FREE Latini ‘Two Harbours Cruise’ with ANY Open Bus Tour!

TOP

UALITY

EE D

HOP ON - HOP OFF Tours in 16 Languages

friendly

Malta by Night inc tter pical Maltese Pla

Some buses are

every 30 Minutes

T GU A RA N

FREE Transport from any location in Malta to a Malta Sightseeing Terminus

DAILY COMINO & BLUE LAGOON CRUISES ON BOARD THE GAVDOS STAR Starting from Monday 7th May to Sunday 28th October (weather permitting)

For just Eur 25 Adults Eur 17 Children (5-15 years) Children under 5 years are Free of Charge

Pick up time: Cirkewwa Mellieha Bugibba St. Julian’s Sliema Valletta Attard

Price includes: Pick up and drop off from your Hotel Use of all facilities on board the Gavdos Star

Air-conditioned area & Toilet facilities on board

Speed boat rides to many caves and caverns surrounding Comino for just Eur 7.50! Supreme Travel Ltd Kastellan Road Zejtun ZTN 4400 MALTA

T: F: W: E:

(356) 21694967, 21677197 (356) 21695856 www.maltasightseeing.com info@maltasightseeing.com

0845 0900 0915 0930 0945 0945 0930

Boat leaves from Sliema Ferries at 10:00hrs and returns at Sliema at 17:00hrs