This tiny European island is a spectacular gem hidden in plain sight boasting incredible food, breathtaking views and fun activities for travellers to indulge in without breaking the bank.
Boasting quintessential Mediterranean sunshine – it’s the perfect getaway(Image: Getty)
While most Brits will have heard of the island nation of Malta, relatively few are aware of its sister island, accessible via a short ferry journey.
A more tranquil, less touristy and altogether more laid-back option compared to mainland Malta, this tiny island is a spectacular gem hidden in plain view.
Despite its modest size, Gozo delivers an impressive array of attractions, with diverse sites, pursuits and scenery simply crying out to be discovered.
Reaching Gozo is straightforward – begin by flying into Malta’s principal international airport, then hop aboard either a brief but picturesque 25-minute ferry from the Cirkewwa terminal in Malta’s north or a 45-minute crossing from the gorgeous capital Valletta to Gozo.
UK flights to Malta are reasonably priced at present – merely £35 one-way at the time of writing for a direct service from London Stansted Airport to Malta International Airport on February 26, with complimentary allowance for one cabin bag included, reports the Express.
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Another advantage of visiting Gozo during the February/March period is its climate – a pleasant range spanning 16C to 20C, offering classic Mediterranean sunshine and gentle breezes to keep you perfectly comfortable on a bright, sunny afternoon.
The icing on the cake? Beverages in Gozo are inexpensive – refreshing cold pints of excellent local beer for £1.80 – every traveller’s fantasy.
Things to do in Gozo
Gozo boasts an abundance of pristine beaches, nestled away from the tourist bustle. The island’s crystal-clear, azure waters and distinctive red-tinged sands create an enchanting atmosphere, ideal for snorkelling, taking a dip, or simply unwinding beneath the Mediterranean sun.
Ramla Bay, one of Gozo’s finest beaches, has been rightfully designated as a Natura 2000 protected site. Visit Gozo, the island’s official tourism authority, notes: “Despite its popularity, Ramla Bay remains wonderfully undeveloped, preserving its natural charm.
“There are a few cafes and a small stall set back from the beach, providing refreshments without compromising the area’s serene atmosphere.”
Brimming with experiences and activities for visitors to enjoy, Gozo presents a wealth of distinctive attractions.
The Ġgantija temples in Gozo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, rank amongst the planet’s oldest and most excellently preserved free-standing structures. This magnificent site is enveloped by verdant countryside and features two colossal temples awaiting discovery.
Indeed, according to local legend, the enormous rocks forming these temples led inhabitants to believe they had been constructed by giants.
The Ta’ Kola Windmill represents another jewel of the island, offering guests a fascinating glimpse into how Gozitans traditionally ground wheat to produce bread and other baked delicacies in bygone times. Dubbed the ‘island of the three hills’, Gozo’s landscape is characterised by distinctive flat-topped elevations that prove absolutely mesmerising.
The trio of most notable peaks are widely recognised as Xagħra hill, the Nadur hill, and Żebbuġ.
Additionally, there’s the Cittadella, Gozo’s freshly renovated historic settlement nestled within the island’s capital, Victoria (Rabat), representing another essential destination should you venture to this magnificent haven.
However, Gozo offers far more than scenic attractions – the island features four Michelin guide establishments – Tmun, Level Nine at The Grand, Al Sale, and Ta’ Frenc – poised to whisk you away on an exquisite gastronomic adventure.
Gozo’s culinary and viticulture offerings are practically unrivalled, with the island’s nutrient-dense terrain and distinctive microclimate yielding some of the finest wines globally. Food and wine excursions have naturally become hugely popular amongst tourists, and understandably so.
Those seeking unconventional experiences need look no further than the age-old practice of milking sheep and goats in Gozo, subsequently crafted into authentic Gozitan cheese. For energetic pursuits, clifftop rambles, kayaking and cycling present excellent choices for an ideal outing.
Mountain biking, kayaking and clifftop trekking all await active travellers, whilst Gozo’s food and wine culture emphasises premium locally-sourced ingredients and ocean-fresh seafood.
Regardless of your preferences, this Maltese gem is genuinely exceptional, and the limited tourist numbers make exploration all the more delightful.