Escape to Gozo: Embrace an authentic island way of life

Għarb

For those who really want to get acquainted with the Gozitan way of life, look no further than Għarb, a traditional village in northwestern Gozo. It’s a great option if you’d like to experience staying in one of Gozo’s famous converted farmhouses; plus, the village’s hilltop location means that you have some of the best views on the whole island.

Although this village has become a favourite due to its proximity to one of the island’s most beautiful churches, Ta’ Pinu, it’s easy to while away a day sitting in Għarb’s pretty village square, which features a honey-coloured church with twin bell towers.

Pirate tip 🏴‍☠️: Although it may be tempting to hop in the car, take the scenic route by walking to Ta’Pinu. You’ll be rewarded with some far-reaching views over the countryside, and it’ll only take about 30 minutes each way.

Xagħra

Another hilltop village, this time in the northeast of the island, Xagħra is a top choice for anyone planning to do a fair bit of sightseeing. That’s because some of Gozo’s best attractions are located close by, including the colossal Ġgantija temples – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ta’Kola Windmill, Calypso’s Cave as well as Ramla Bay, widely considered to have the island’s best beach.

Although it's easy to get distracted by all these phenomenal sites, the village itself is well worth your time, with a large square and pretty red-domed church. The square is home to lively restaurants and bars that create a welcoming atmosphere. There are even two caves within walking distance from the square - Xerri’s Grotto and Ninu’s Cave. Xagħra is another hotspot for Gozitan farmhouse stays, but you can also find some top-notch boutique hotels and B&Bs here too.

Day 1: Explore Victoria’s ancient Citadel

Gozo’s largest city is the first place you should go, as there’s so much to see and do here. Renamed Victoria back in 1887 in honour of Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, the city is also referred to as Ir-Rabat by the locals. The centre is hard to miss, with its heavily fortified walls rising above Victoria, and it’s here that you should start your day.

The citadel, also known as Il-Kastell, may look like it was all built at the same time, but this fascinating place bears traces of the different influences that passed through the island - Roman, Phoenicians, you name it. Start with a visit to the Cathedral of the Assumption, which features a trompe l’oeil painting designed to give the impression of a domed ceiling. A visit to the Cathedral Museum is included in the ticket price.

From here, it really depends on your interests, as it feels like there’s a museum for everyone in the citadel. Some of our favourites include the Archaeology Museum, which houses the most interesting finds from the island, the Old Prison, complete with historic graffiti left by former inmates, and the Folklore Museum, which gives an insight into life on Gozo.

Whatever you end up choosing, make sure you make time to simply wander the narrow streets and to take in the views from the colossal walls. For a meal, head down to Pjazza Indipendenza, the main square that’s known to locals as it-Tokk, and choose from one of the al fresco cafes located here. Or take a 6-minute drive out to Ta Mena Estate, where you can do a wine tasting and have the chance to try out local delicacies such as Gozitan cheese, honey and sun-dried tomatoes.

End off your day in one of Victoria’s many wine bars, such as Cafe Jubilee. Enjoy your beverage of choice along with ftira, a traditional pizza served with a variety of toppings.

Day 3: Take in the beauty of the island’s natural wonders

Your final day should be spent exploring the places that have put Gozo on the map as a destination known for its natural beauty. Dwejra Bay, located on the west coast, is one such place. This coastline was made famous by the Azure Window, a natural rock arch that featured in Game of Thrones. Sadly, the Azure Window is no more, having succumbed to nature’s forces in 2017, but there’s still so much to see in Dwejra Bay.

Whether you choose to explore these features on foot or via a boat tour, the rugged coastline is undeniably impressive. You can marvel at the Blue Hole, a popular spot with divers and snorkellers, explore the Inland Sea, admire unusual rock formations such as Fungus Rock and Crocodile Rock and so much more. There’s even a small public beach located at the Inland Sea, perfect for whiling away an hour or so.

For lunch, head to one of the area’s cafes or bars, or head into the centre of San Lawrenz village for more options.

You could easily spend the entire day at Dwejra Bay, where the sunsets are stunning. However, if you’re feeling like you want to see more, head towards either Ta’Pinu Basilica, one of the island’s most beautiful churches, or the Xwejni Salt Pans, another extremely photogenic part of Gozo.

End off your day in either Marsalforn or Xlendi, both of which have a larger selection of bars and restaurants to choose from. You can even indulge in a spot of nightlife in these parts if that’s something you’re after!

Bonus: If you have an extra day in Gozo, spend at least half the day taking a trip out to the nearby island of Comino, which has its own interesting history and attractions, including the unmissable Blue Lagoon, a haven for swimmers.