Whether you are looking for adventure, family friendly activities, beautiful beaches, good food or luxurious hotels, you will surely find what you need in Gozo. It offers one a short & quick escape from the hectic day to day routine, creating the perfect peaceful getaway you need.
My last visit to Gozo was quite a different one. Every now & then I get these crazy adventurous ideas. This time it was quad-biking around the island of Gozo. It was something I was eagerly longing to do. We rented our bikes from 'Gozo Quad Hire', in Ghajnsielem which I highly recommend. They offer a great & efficient service with excellent prices. I must say , I was surprised. Gozo is not as small as everyone has the impression it is.To go around the island you need at least 3 days. Then to properly enjoy the island & the beautiful places it has to offer you need a good 5 days.
So here are my top 10 Gozitan must sees :
1. Citadella
With its unique skyline and imposing military heritage & architecture, Cittadella, the old fortified city, stands out as Gozo's significant landmark, a reference point visible from everywhere throughout the island. Habitated by man since ancient times it is a declaration of its occupants who all left their imprint to shape the grand complex noticeable today. The Citadella is wealthy in structures of compositional, military and authentic worth, while its open territories bear the cost of a natural surroundings to various uncommon types of verdure. The site offers the perfect setting for quality occasions that rejuvenate the past, connecting the island's present with its future. In visiting Cittadella, as you wander around the quiet narrow winding streets, one is invited to take a step back in time, encountering the past in a way they are probably not going to overlook. We cannot forget to mention the stunning view of Gozo from the highest points that Citadella provides where one can witness the beauty of this gem of an island.
2. Ggantija Temples
Found in the limits of Xaghra, Ggantija temples are the earliest of the megalithic temples of Malta having more than 5500 years old. In fact they are older than the ancient pyramids of Egypt. These have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This megalithic monument encompasses two temples and an incomplete third, of which only the facade was partially built before being abandoned. The name Ġgantija derives from the word ‘ġgant’, Maltese for giant, as Gozitans used to believe the temples were built by a race of giants. This is not so surprising when you see the size of the limestone blocks from which it is constructed. Some of these megaliths exceed five metres in length and weigh over fifty tons. The temple and the surrounding areas were restored & rehabilitated in the 2000s.
3. Ta'Pinu Basilica 
The Sanctuary of Ta' Pinu is an architectural monument, built in a segregated site in open countryside, in the valley between the towns of Gharb and Ghammar. It is a shrine to Our Lady of Ta' Pinu, that welcomes all visitors from around the world who wish to pray or just simply admire & appreciate the artisitc figures and craftsmanship of architectural design on the Maltese stone inside the church. Inside you will witness the great devotion of the Maltese, expressed on items like helmets, casts, photographs, babygrows exhibited on the walls, left by many people as offerings from promises attended by Our Lady of Ta’Pinu. Outside the church, on opposite sides are two beautiful mosaic walls depicting scenes from the life of Jesus, which have been recently located there, giving the area a fresh modern view.
4. Mgarr ix-Xini 
A beautiful little pebbly sea shore close to Ghajnsielem , Xewkija & Sannat, lying in a gorg to the west of Mgarr Harbour, accessible mainly from the nearest village of Xewkija aswell as from Sannat. An excellent spot for swimming and snorkeling. This once-confined channel is progressively well known however still seldom occupied. At the edges are rocks from which you can swim straight into profound water. Although steps are provided some choose to soar. As you drive close to the location the road becomes narrower & steeper. I suggest you go early & best to park at the top to avoid confusion. You can walk the rest of the way. During the rule of the knights, it served as a small harbour for galleys. A small watchtower was built to defend the area in 1661, and it was restored several times in recent years. This location was actually where Angelina Jolie & Brad Pitt shot one of their films called ‘By the Sea’.
5. Wied il-Mielah 
This valley is located in the north of the village of Gharb, continuously flowing & ending in the deep blue sea. Everyone remembers the magnificent azure window which we mourn its downfall till today. Well we have another hidden seaside rock arch, resembling a window which many have not discovered yet. The Wied il-Mielah Window is at the end of the Valley.The road from Għarb leads directly to the coast; parking is available on the plateau on natural ground. Directly at the end of the valley, parallel to the old river bed, there is a narrow staircase along the rock to just before the window, almost to the water. You can capture some pretty great shots of the solid rock boulder from the tip of the staircase, and just stare at the mesmerizing view created by this natural phenomenon.
6. Hondoq ir-Rummien
A coastal area & bay in the village of Qala. This bay Is well known for it’s clean, clear, azure colour water, attracting many divers & snorkelers. In fact it is a blue flag beach. Hondoq offers you with the best of both worlds as it is partly sandy & partly filled with pebbles. It is also one of the few remaining areas having unspoiled pieces of countryside in Malta providing a habitat for rare wild plants & a niche for endemic species. In addition, the coastline below the village of Qala is lined with traditional salt pans.
7. Ramla bay 
If you like sandy beaches, then this is the spot for you. Also referred as Ir-ramla l-Hamra, Ramla Bay is one of Gozo’s most popular beach that many locals & tourists search for. Can be reached from the village of Nadur. It is renowned for it’s red sand that covers the whole wide stretch of area. Historical facts & ancient myths insist that beneath this silky sand lie Roam remains. It is a delightful place for swimming, sunbathing & just chilling in the bright hot sun. Although the area around the beach is undeveloped, one can still find a couple of cafes & beach stalls to satisfy your appetite & freshen up.
8. San Blas bay 
A pretty little peaceful beach of red sand, a little sibling to Ramla Bay. Located in the limits of Nadur, reachable via a narrow road, the last part of which is no accessible by car but by foot due to its steepness. This is ideal for practicing social distancing as it is quiet & never crowded.
9. Mixta Cave
This beautiful historic cave is a site not to be missed. It is found high up in the hills of Nadur. In my opinion, it does not get the importance it truly deserves as not many people are aware of it. This cave essentially acts as a window, with its crevices providing a breathtaking panoramic view of the red sands covering the picturesque Ramla Bay. If you like taking photographs this location is worth a visit.
10. Wied il-Ghasri 
The Ghasri valley is a marvelous place, both in summer & winter. You can go for a walk, picnic or a bike ride in the outstanding countryside this place has to offer. One can also find an isolated inlet with a little pebbly beach wedged between high cliffs. It is ideal for those who are seeking a quiet swimming area. This valley is also popular with divers who enjoy exploring underwater caves.
That is all for today. I hope you enjoyed reading my little Gozitan guide. I kept my list short, including those places which I feel are unique to this island, yet there are many other places you can visit such as Marsalforn, Xlendi bay among others which are surely familiar with many of you locals.
I highly recommend using quad bikes to go around the island as you can see the place far more better, its fun and you do not need to hassle about parking which a great advantage considering these busy months. One good word of advice, if you are thinking of going to Gozo, think ahead to avoid long ques. I suggest avoiding weekends as they are the most busy. And another thing, don't forget to wear your mask on the ferry.
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