Gozo: Malta's Enchanting Sister Island

Just a short ferry ride from Malta lies Gozo, a captivating island that offers visitors a glimpse into a more tranquil Mediterranean experience. Whether you're seeking a day trip or an extended stay, this charming destination delivers an authentic escape with its rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and distinctive local experiences for individual travellers and groups alike.

Destination Highlights

Gozo presents a perfect alternative to mainland Malta with its abundance of green spaces and lower population density. Access is convenient via a 25-minute ferry trip from the Cirkewwa terminal in North Malta or a 45-minute journey from Valletta. This proximity allows for easy exploration while providing a distinct change of pace.

The ancient temples of Ġgantija stand as Gozo's most significant historical landmark. This UNESCO World Heritage site features two massive prehistoric temples so impressive in scale that locals once believed giants constructed them. Nearby, the Ta' Kola Windmill offers visitors insight into traditional wheat grinding methods that sustained generations of Gozitans.

Dominating the skyline is the recently restored Cittadella, perched atop one of Gozo's three famous hills. Adjacent to Victoria (Gozo's capital), this ancient fortified city features a labyrinth of narrow streets winding around impressive bastions and a magnificent Cathedral. The panoramic views from its walls are simply breathtaking, offering a perfect vantage point to appreciate the island's distinctive topography.

Between Malta and Gozo lies the charming island of Comino, accessible via a brief 10-minute boat ride. Despite being home to just one permanent family, this tiny island boasts extraordinary natural beauty, including the famous Blue Lagoon and Crystal Lagoon. The 17th-century Santa Marija Tower stands as its highest landmark, once serving as both protection against Ottoman invaders and as a prison for the Knights of St. John.

Activities

Gozo excels as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Its dramatic coastline offers excellent diving opportunities with exceptional sea visibility. The waters surrounding Comino are particularly renowned among divers, with all sites being accessible via boat.

The island's rugged terrain creates perfect conditions for hiking enthusiasts. Well-maintained trails traverse hills, connect quaint villages, and lead to ancient sites, all while offering spectacular panoramic views. Notable routes include paths along the impressive Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs and around Dwejra Bay, both offering stunning vistas that photographers will appreciate.

For those seeking a more relaxed pace, Gozo's beaches provide idyllic retreats. Ramla Bay, with its distinctive red sand, and the smaller San Blas Bay offer some of the Mediterranean's most picturesque swimming spots. Meanwhile, Dwejra's Inland Sea provides an exceptional location for stargazers, completely free from light pollution.

Culture

Gozo's cultural identity remains deeply connected to its rural traditions and historical heritage. Visitors can witness ancient practices like the milking of goats and sheep, followed by the preparation of traditional Gozitan cheese—a process largely unchanged for generations.

The island celebrates numerous festivals throughout the year, with summer seeing the highest concentration of cultural events. Village festas represent vibrant expressions of local tradition, with elaborate decorations, processions, and fireworks. Carnival in Gozo carries a distinctive character, known for its spontaneous nature and touches of dark satire that set it apart from celebrations elsewhere.

Traditional craftsmanship thrives on the island, with handmade lace (locally known as Bizzilla) being one of the oldest and most distinguished crafts. Skilled lacemakers can still be encountered in various village streets, continuing patterns and techniques passed down through generations. Other notable crafts include pottery, stone sculptures, and ceramics, all reflecting the island's artistic heritage.

Food & Drink

Gozo's gastronomic scene perfectly balances tradition with contemporary excellence. The island boasts several Michelin-plate restaurants alongside family establishments serving exemplary local cuisine. What distinguishes Gozitan food is its genuine farm-to-table ethos—many restaurants either grow their produce or source directly from nearby farms, ensuring exceptional freshness.

Fresh seafood features prominently on menus, with the island's harbors filled with fishing boats supplying daily catches. Gozitan cheese, made from sheep's milk, stands as a cherished local specialty used in various preparations, from filling street-food pastizzi to crafting delicious ravioli.

The distinctive Gozitan ftira deserves special mention—this unique pizza variant bakes in wood-fired ovens and typically features toppings of potatoes, local cheese, anchovies, capers, and tuna. The island also produces excellent olive oil, honey, and wines that showcase the fertile landscape's bounty.

For accommodation, Gozo offers remarkable variety despite its small size. Options range from luxurious five-star hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Particularly distinctive are the traditional farmhouses available for self-catering visitors—most equipped with private pools and situated in tranquil rural settings that perfectly capture Gozo's authentic charm.

Whether exploring ancient temples, hiking dramatic coastlines, or savoring local delicacies, Gozo rewards visitors with experiences that feel both timeless and refreshingly authentic.

For further information, or assistance in planning your group visit to Gozo, contact our team on groups@oswaldarrigoltd.com