GOZO Discover
A HISTORICAL gem
Gozo boasts some of the oldest freestanding stone buildings in the world, the UNESCO Wo Heritage Ggantija Temples dating back to 3,600B.C.
The island is adorned with stunning baroque architecture inherited from the Knights of St J Another important legacy of the knights are t mosaics of salt pans which dot Gozo’s coastl
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CULTURE
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Gozo’s culture and way of life are rooted in tradition and yet open to the future. This is indeed an island of charm and joy that pleases the senses and engage
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The vibrant calendar of annual events includes an acclaimed opera season and international music festivals, a distinct carnival, Holy Week and Easter celebrations and numerous summer festas tied to an intrinsic religious culture.
A colourful blend of local and international events, performances and exhibitions, unfold with every season.
Developed just enough, Gozo is a masterpiece wrought by nature and shaped by 7000 years of culture. Myth and reality converge here on what is believed to have been the Isle of Calypso in Homer’s Odyssey, where the sea nymph held Odysseus (Ulysses) under her spell for seven years.
The people of Gozo, numbering just 38,000, have nurtured Calypso’s Island into the beautiful place we know today where the picturesque scenery, a pristine coastline and untouched country trails blend with the imposing baroque churches which rise from the heart of small villages.
A HAVEN OF
blue waters
Gozo’s award-winning crystal-clear waters perfectly complement the island’s gorgeous beaches. From sandy bays to rocky bathing places, you’ll most definitely find a beach to your liking.
Summer is a definite for a nice swim but the water is already comfortably warm in spring and swimming continues unabated
For the thrill seekers, the island’s waters provide the perfect setting for kayaking, boating, canoeing, paddleboarding, and other water sports.
Gozo’s award-winning clean coast, and its array of scenic caverns, reefs, caves, and wrecks, also make the island a world-class diving destination.
A DISTINCT DESTINATION
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WHERE TO STAY in Gozo
Gozo offers a fantastic selection of places to stay that cater to all budgets and preferences. Whether you ’ re seeking ultimate comfort and indulgence or a cozy and authentic local experience, Gozo has got you covered.
The Island boasts a selection of three, four, and five-star hotels that come complete with excellent restaurants. If you ’ re looking for a touch of style and luxury, the island’s growing number of boutique hotels are the perfect choice. These hidden gems are usually nestled near charming village squares, surrounded by centuries-old buildings crafted from local uxury ouses re the elf i th e
Alternatively, for travellers who prefer more independence, Gozo has a wide range of self-catering options, ranging from seaside apartments to luxuriously renovated Gozo farmhouses. The latter are a noteworthy choice, boasting soft pastel-coloured traditional limestone, thick stone walls, beamed interiors and private swimming pools.
From the heart of the village to the tranquility of the sea, come and experience the real rhythm of this island, where time slows down, and the accommodations are just as warm and welcoming as the island itself.
THE THRILL SEEKER heart pumping fun
Here are some possible itineraries for different visitor profiles. If the various activities in each itinerary tickle your fancy, you can always combine a mix of things to do that’ll guarantee many days of joy for a holiday you’ll never forget.
DAY1
Go for an early morning dive – Gozo has built a reputation as one of the world’s best diving destinations and there’s a good dive for any level of experience.
it the beach – we ’ ve counted over 20 areas in Gozo where ou can enjoy a swim in the island’s crystal-clear waters. If
DAY2
Sunset picnic – a Gozitan sunset is an experience in itself but you can make it even more special by booking a sunset picnic. Ideal locations: Xlendi, Sanap, Ta’ Ċenċ, and Dwejra
Experience a sunrise – whether you ’ re an earlybird or a nighthawk, you must experience the first golden rays of sunlight lighting up the island as the dawn chorus of seawaves crashing onto the shore and melodic birdsong drift in. Ideal locations: Ħondoq Bay, Xwejni, Qala Belvedere, Mġarr Harbour
Kayak/Canoe/Paddleboard tour – a great way to experience the coastal beauty of the island. We recommend a tour that takes you to Comino, Gozo’s smaller sister island famous for its Blue Lagoon and caves that were a pirates’ hideout centuries ago.
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Rent a bike – the hilly structure of the island provides a fun and varied ride and the scenic views, the fresh air, and the tranquility that Gozo offers will ensure that you have an enjoyable cycling experience.
Go to a bar – Gozitan bars are synonymous with storytelling as this is a setting where locals usually congregate for a chat over a drink. Choose your bar well and you’ll be guaranteed an authentic Gozitan experience with plenty of insider tips and stories
DAY3
Do one of the walks – break into your hiking boots and do one of the nine official Gozo walks. The longest walk is about 13 km long and should take 4 hours to complete. All the walks offer different levels of difficulty and take people to places that are otherwise off the tourist trail Download the app ‘Experience Gozo’ from your phone’s application store.
Horseback riding - an exhilarating, enjoyable, and unique way to explore the pristine landscapes of the Gozitan countryside.
Enjoy a Gozo sunset – a great treat of being on a small island is the great number of opportunities you have to enjoy a sunset. Sanap Cliffs, Ta’ Ċenċ, Xwejni Bay, Dwejra Bay, and Xlendi bay are all great locations to witness nature’s greatest show.
Seaside dinner – The beautiful seaside villages of Mġarr, Marsalforn, and Xlendi provide the perfect backdrop for a delightful dinner experience. Whether you prefer a bustling atmosphere or a peaceful retreat, Gozo’s seaside dining options are sure to exceed your expectations.
Explore the eery streets of the Ċittadella at night - many explore the Ċittadella during the day but this magnificently lit old city is a totally different experience during nighttime, when the daytrippers have left and the quietness that reigns is only disturbed by the rustling of the wind and the hourly church bell tolls.
THE CULTURE HISTORY BUFF and
DAY1
Explore Victoria’s old part – starting from It-Tokk, the City’s old part is important both historically and culturally for the island. Visit St. George’s Basilica and the narrow winding streets behind it Enjoy a morning coffee and a traditional tasty pastizz at the lively St. George’s or Independence Square as you watch the world go by.
Visit il-Ħaġar Museum – this museum and cultural centre strives to present the visitor with an authentic experience of the Gozitan heritage and Christian culture that form this island community. Il-Ħaġar recounts the history of this island through its people: their beliefs, their abilities and their products.
Visit the Gozo Ċittadella – the island’s fortified old city packs in it the Gozo Cathedral, an audio visual visitors centre, four museums, grain silos, WWII shelters, the Gozo courts and old prison, chapels, and beautiful panoramic views of Gozo.
Dinner at one of the squares – whether you stay in Victoria or you go to one of the island’s villages, Gozo’s piazzas usually have good restaurants where you can enjoy a nice local dinner complemented by locally produced wine.
Enjoy a cultural event – Gozo has an incredibly active cultural calendar There are traditional festas, operas, theatre productions, carnival, live seaside concerts, exhibitions, international festivals, musicals, religious processions, and fairs organised throughout the year. Go to www.eventsingozo.com to see what’s on.
DAY2
Xagħra’s Caves and Grottos – make your way to Xagħra and visit the village’s Ninu’s Cave and Xerri’s Grotto where you’ll be amazed by their geographical wonders. Crown your morning with the magnificent panoramas at Calypso’s Cave. Although the cave is closed, the evocative views of Ramla Bay make a visit worthwhile.
Ta’ Kola Windmill & Ggantija Temples – Visit Ta’ Kola
Windmill for a nostalgic touch of rural Gozo and then explore the Ġgantija Archeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with structures built between 3600 and 3200 BC.
Lunch at the square – after discovering the mysteries of Ġgantija, walk to the village square for a spot of lunch. This piazza is a delightful meeting point and hub for the village as it offers a variety of restaurants and cafés. Ask for the fresh fish of the day or try something local.
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The Saltpans – the 350-year-old salt pans are part of the centuries-old Gozitan tradition of sea salt production that has been passed down within certain families for many generations. Salt is still harvested from these pans till this very day. Visit during sunset for a truly memorable experience.
Xewkija Windmill & Rotunda – the recently renovated windmill at Xewkija is worth a visit and then there’s the island’s biggest church just a short walk away. The church is a showcase of work in local limestone Make your way up the bell tower for incredible panoramic views of Gozo.
Ta’ Pinu National Shrine – Ta’ Pinu is an architectural masterpiece, especially inside with its super sculptures and craftsmanship in Maltese stone. The story of this church is worth reading about and there’s also an ex-voto museum with thousands of inspiring testimonies of faith. You can also enjoy a walk up Ta’ Għammar Hill, just opposite the church.
Ta’ Dbieġi Crafts Village – a former soldiers’ quarters for British military service, Ta’ Dbieġi is now a crafts village boasting high quality craftsmanship which is a must visit for those seeking quality artisan products.
Dwejra Bay – Visit Dwejra’s 1562 watchtower and climb the staircase to the roof where you can enjoy beautiful vistas of the natural features that make up this stunning location. Appreciate the natural beauty that is the Fungus rock and learn about its history This is a great location where you can enjoy a sunset.
Enjoy a wine tour – Gozo has its own DOK wine and a visit to a typical Gozitan winery will be a reward for your taste buds. Tours usually pair wine with a selection of traditional snacks.
Gaspar, Pawel Piszczek, Pete Bullen, Peter Mohr, Piotr Andruszko, Reispackers, Terry Camilleri.
Photos by: Alana Mifsud, Anthony Grech, Charlene Guichard, Daniel Cilia, Dream Beach Media, Franco Tabone, Gozo Picnic, Haylea Brown, Hush Photography, How Far From Home, James Cripps, Malta Tourism Authority, Michele Agius, Michael Kagerer, Nathalie Wanders, Olly