For many, Gozo might be Malta’s best-kept secret. The island, accessible only by ferry, is a unique destination to explore during your holiday. Like a storybook waiting to be opened, Gozo offers a mosaic of authentic historical, cultural, religious and adventures and experiences.
For many, Gozo might be Malta’s best-kept secret. The island, accessible only by ferry, is a unique destination to explore during your holiday. Like a storybook waiting to be opened, Gozo offers a mosaic of authentic historical, cultural, religious and adventures and experiences. The island captures the essence of the last mile, a destination with a good dose of locations that pulsate with the soul of ‘calm’ and spots where the rest of the world feels far away, and where you can possibly start a journey of wellness.
On the southern edge of the island stand the Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs, dropping sharply into the deep blue sea from a height of 120 metres. Standing at the top is akin to the view of the soaring birds that inhabit the area. Tranquil and still at all hours of the day, the only sounds you’re bound to hear are bird calls, insect hums or the sound of your footsteps. There are several country paths to follow around the garigue plateau and the coastal edge. The place is mesmerising at sunrise when the sun stretches out from behind Comino and mainland Malta, and utterly magical at sunset when the sea seems to be set aglow with the golden light.
The hidden, red-sandy beach, strewn with large, dark boulders, is a serene spot with no crowds and no loud beach bars. Access to the beach is via a steep path, ensuring it remains peaceful throughout all seasons. There’s something deeply primal about San Blas and having the beach all to yourself — a rare kind of peace that’s hard to match. As dusk falls and mauve shadows stretch across the glowing reds of the sky, you might catch yourself wondering whether you’ve stepped into a postcard or if this moment is real.
Step back in time and wander off to Lunzjata Valley. Despite being nestled in the heart of the island, between the city of Victoria and the village of Kerċem, Lunzjata Valley echoes vernacular rural charm. Enter through the grand arch, a building that testifies to the grandeur and nobility of the hunting grounds of the Knights of St. John. Take a stroll down the main path beside the small chapel built into the rocky ledge right up to the fountain where farmers washed their produce. The sauntering cats will greet you, and there amid the lush green fields and orchards, you’ll find a sense of luxurious peace.
Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary is, first and foremost, a pilgrim’s place. Still, whether or not you’re a religious or spiritual person, you will discover that the Basilica amid Gozo’s western countryside offers a truly calming experience. The silence, the setting, the stone sculpture, the mosaics and the stained-glass windows open a window in the hearts of many visitors who stop to sit quietly for a moment of prayer or reflection.
Located near Marsalforn, the geometric salt pans https://visitgozo.com/itineraries/the-saltpans-of-xwejni/ —mirroring the sky with ever-shifting colours—resemble mosaic tesserae laid out against a dramatic sea backdrop. The reflective water or salt-crystal surfaces capture the passing light, creating a living canvas that changes with every hour. The area, which is easily accessible even for those with mobility impairments, thanks to its position parallel to the coastal road, glows at sunset and seems like a capsule vibrating and radiating light and energy.
If you want to hide away for a morning or afternoon, head to this small bay. The small rocky cove right next to Qbajjar, Xwejni Bay, is ideal for peaceful swims, snorkelling or just reading a book by the sea. And it all comes with a beautiful and unique backdrop of Il-Qolla l-Bajda, a limestone knoll rising out of the coast, contrasting with the blue seas and sky.
It takes some twists and turns to get to Tal-Mixta cave, but once you get to this rocky outpost overlooking the sandy bays of Ramla, you’ll be immersed in the stillness and serenity that the spot offers, along with spectacular views. If you want to pause and soak in the tranquillity, it is best to visit early in the morning or late in the day, when there is less chance of sharing the space with other visitors.
Offbeat and accessible only via a steep set of steps chiselled out of the rock, the narrow pebbly inlet, flanked by cliffs on both sides, is great for meditative days, when dips in crystalline waters, journaling, inspired poetry writing, or plein-air sketching in solitude offer a deeply nourishing escape.
Cross over the Kantra inlet via the stone bridge and hike up the steep side of the cliff face. Follow the path to the Xlendi coastal tower and the surrounding area. The recently restored tower, juxtaposed on the edge, has stood on guard since the 17th century, overlooking the rough and craggy salt pans at the edge of the coast, and echoes a timeless vibe. Pause and sit down on the smooth, yellow limestone rock hollows, shaped like cradles by centuries of relentless waves and sea spray. This is yet another perfect spot for sunset chasers to soak in the magic.
One overlooked calm spot in the centre of the island’s capital is Villa Rundle Gardens. The garden may not be vast by continental standards, but it is a tranquil oasis of peace and shade, where tall trees offer welcome relief as you stroll around Victoria. Open from early in the morning till late in the evening, the garden is a popular retreat for both locals and visitors, old and young alike.
Bonus: Comino (off-season)
For the ultimate getaway far from the madding crowd, check out Comino during the non-peak season (late autumn to early spring). Only one resident has his home here, so if you’re intent on being alone only with your thoughts, this is the place you’re seeking. Hike out the various paths, check out the Santa Marija coastal tower, visit the different bays and take a dip in the crystalline lagoons!
These are just our favourite ten. As you explore the island, you will discover tucked away in Gozo’s villages, valleys, and along the coast, many a turn that quietly catches you off guard with their quaint charm and whispers serenity in your journey of discovery.
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