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10 Amazing Boutique Hotels in Gozo (Where to Stay in 2023)

Olly Gaspar — Tue, 20 Dec 2022 06:33:00 +0000

Wondering where to stay on Gozo? Read this 2023 accommodation guide to the best boutique hotels on Gozo Island, Malta!

While there are plenty of luxurious 5-star resorts in Malta, a stay in Gozo is all about its quaint and traditional boutique hotels.

These small, homey lodgings offer a more authentic travel experience and most definitely don’t skimp out on luxury. In this accommodation guide, I’ve listed the 10 best places to stay on Gozo to help you plan your travels.

In a Rush? Here are the Best Gozo Boutique Hotels
Gozo Accommodation: Boutique Hotels
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In a Rush? Here are the Best Gozo Boutique Hotels

Due to its small size and well-connected network of buses and roads, choosing the ideal location to stay in Gozo is less crucial than on the main island of Malta.

You'll find great boutique hotels dotted all over the island, from Nadur to Xlendi. Below are the three best accommodation options in Gozo.

Quaint Boutique Hotel - Nadur
Accommodation on Malta’s quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.
Viewpoint Boutique Living - Xlendi
This family-run boutique hotel dates back 300 years and is situated on a beautiful cliff overlooking the Xlendi Valley and the Mediterranean Sea. The location is ideal for couples looking to get away, with convenient access to the beach and just a short 2 km drive to the Citadella.
Kempinski Hotel - San Lawrenz
While not a Gozo boutique hotel– travelers preferring modern, Gozo luxury hotels, the Kempinski Hotel is still a great bet. This amazing hotel is located in San Lawrenz, on a 30,000m² tropical oasis. An excellent choice for larger groups and families as there are self-catering apartment options as well!

More on Booking.com

Gozo Accommodation: Boutique Hotels

	Hotel	Price
	Viewpoint Boutique Living	$$
	Santa Lucia Boutique Hotel	$$
	DGolden Valley Boutique	$$
	Quaint Boutique Hotel Nadur	$$
	Bliss Boutique Living	$
	The Duke Boutique Hotel	$$$
	Il-Logga Boutique Hotel	$$$
	Cesca's Boutique Hotel	$$$
	Quaint Boutique Hotel Xewkija	$$
	Villa Dei Venti	$$

1. Viewpoint Boutique Living

This family-run boutique hotel dates back 300 years and is situated on a beautiful cliff overlooking the Xlendi Valley and the Mediterranean Sea. The location is ideal for couples looking to get away, with convenient access to the beach and just a short 2-kilometer drive to the Cittadella.

With their outdoor swimming pool, lush garden, and free wifi, Viewpoint Boutique Living assures you will have a relaxing holiday. Their sunny terrace is also definitely a recommendation.

The area is mostly popular for cycling and snorkeling, and car rental is also available at the hotel!

View on Booking.com

2. Santa Lucia Boutique Hotel

Santa Lucia is definitely one of the best boutique hotels in Gozo. This luxurious accommodation is situated in a quiet location just 2.5 kilometers from the Cittadella, and they boast fabulous views over the valley. It is, therefore, a great option if you wish to escape the noise of the city.

The hotel provides free private parking, free wifi, and a large outdoor swimming pool. Furthermore, all rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, TV, fridge, desk, and minibar. There are double and family rooms available, so Santa Lucia definitely comes to mind if you are traveling in a group.

It is a short drive away from the jaw-dropping Inland Sea at Dwejra Point which is a perfect location for a day trip.

Santa Lucia also offers some great continental and buffet breakfasts!

View on Booking.com

3. DGolden Valley Boutique

This highly-rated 4-star hotel is a true colossus of a hotel! They have no less than 4 outdoor swimming pools, and many of their comfortable rooms are equipped with a choice of private jacuzzis. Naturally, you can enjoy some amazing views of the sea or the Cittadella directly from your room.

DGolden Valley also has a great location. The hotel is situated right across the road from a supermarket and from public transport. It is certainly very convenient if you don't have a car. Besides, DGolden Valley is just a short walk from Ramla Bay Beach and only 1.6 kilometers from the Ghar Qawqla ocean cliffs.

We find this hotel a great choice for those wanting to relax. They have comfortable rooms, many luxurious amenities, and a superb location. Surely worth their high rating on Booking.com!

View on Booking.com

4. Quaint Boutique Hotel Nadur

Accommodation on Malta’s quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.

Besides its great location, Quaint Boutique also knows how to treat its guests. The hotel has both a restaurant and a pizzeria on-site! There is free parking, the rooms are all fully air-conditioned, and some of the more expensive rooms even have a private outdoor whirlpool jacuzzi. Oh, and did we tell you about the indoor jet tub?

The hotel is located only a 10-minute drive from the incredible Tal Mixta Cave which is definitely worth checking out!

View on Booking.com

5. Bliss Boutique Living

With a stunning 9.4 rating on Booking.com, Bliss Boutique Living is one of the top hotels on the stunning island of Gozo. Attaining the highest standard of service and cleanliness, we are convinced that even travelers with the highest standards will be satisfied here!

The hotel has beautiful, large, bright rooms with private balconies, which naturally give way to some stunning views. Even from the rooftop pool, which is adult-only, the sunset views are astounding. The hotel also has free public parking and a delicious breakfast.

Furthermore, Bliss Boutique has a great location. There is easy access to the many nearby restaurants, and Marsalforn beach is just a short 2.6 kilometers away. The Cittadella is just 1.5 kilometers. If you are looking for a relaxing holiday on Gozo island, this hotel will not disappoint you!

View on Booking.com

6. The Duke Boutique Hotel

Located in the heart of Victoria, the Duke Boutique Hotel can proudly brag about amazing views over the fortified city and Cittadella. This great place provides deluxe rooms with a private hot tub and a private terrace. We also like to point out that this hotel has great disability access!

After you've enjoyed your delicious traditional Maltese breakfast in the hotel's restaurant, it's not a far walk to many interesting activities. Horse riding, snorkeling, diving, and biking are all short distances. Duke Boutique is 12 minute drive from the incredible Wied il-Ghasri Beach and is also close to many restaurants and cafes.

Looking for a great place in the heart of Victoria? This might be the one for you!

View on Booking.com

7. Il-Logga Boutique Hotel

If, on the contrary, you are not looking to be situated in the midst of Victoria city, Il-Logga Boutique Hotel is a nice alternative located in a quieter area. We find it to be an excellent choice for those looking for a relaxing stay with panoramic views.

The spacious rooms have unique colorful decor, and the balconies and incredible rooftop pool both have amazing views. They also have an outdoor sun terrace with sun loungers present.

Situated just a short distance from Marsalforn Beach, this hotel is located perfectly: away from the main hub of Gozo, but still close to the many touristic spots. Don't forget to enjoy the daily breakfast a la carte!

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8. Cesca's Boutique Hotel

This 4-star hotel is a perfect place to enjoy the beautiful Gozo island. Located just a stone's throw away from Xlendi Bay, Cesca's Boutique Hotel has an amazing location. From the outdoor swimming pool, you can enjoy the surrounding hill views. Hills that are, as a matter of fact, a great place for bike rides!

The rooms are beautifully designed with some even featuring large baths and private bathrooms. The property also has a good restaurant and a large sun terrace for relaxing.

Just look at the authentic style of the rooms below. Definitely a great Gozo accommodation choice!

View on Booking.com

9. Quaint Boutique Hotel Xewkija

Quaint Boutique Hotel Xewkija is one of the more popular hotels, and this is for a good reason. Located in a very quiet location in the streets of Xewkija, this hotel overlooks the Rotonda St John Baptist Church. The area is very popular for cycling and walking, and it is located just a 7-minute drive from the Gozo ferry terminal. Very convenient indeed.

Quaint Boutique has spacious rooms with a desk, air-conditioning, fridge, kettle, hot tub, and private bathroom. They also have an excellent bar and restaurant on-site, which serves a magnificent breakfast with lots of options.

We can certainly see why this is one of the more popular hotels. If you wish to stay at a convenient location close to the ferry, many local markets, and more sightseeing like the Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs, this is your choice!

View on Booking.com

The Ultimate Malta Travel Resource

Looking for more Malta travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

10. Villa Dei Venti

Located in the quiet countryside area of Qala, this last hotel has an amazing view of the ocean and surrounding landscape. You'll feel like a real prince or princess when you look out over the countryside from your spacious balcony or outdoor swimming pool.

Villa Dei Venti also has immaculate rooms for families and larger groups. Some rooms even have a hot tub. Besides, there is free private parking and a good internet connection. The on-site restaurant also serves a delicious breakfast.

The hotel is located 2.2 kilometers from Dahlet Qorrot Beach, and there is public transport to Victoria, the capital city of Gozo.

Luxury in its truest form!

View on Booking.com

Best Gozo Tours & Activities

Blue Lagoon Tour - the best-rated Blue Lagoon tour from Gozo
Gozo Day Trip Jeep Tour from Malta - explore the island of Gozo on a small-group Jeep adventure tour from Malta
Gozo ATV Quad Bike Tour - self-ride tour of Gozo on an ATV!

More Top-Rated Tours on Gozo

More Gozo & Malta Travel Inspiration

I hope that you've enjoyed this detailed list of the best Gozo boutique hotels. Now that you know where to stay, check out some of my other guides to Malta's sister island and get inspired for an amazing trip.

The post 10 Amazing Boutique Hotels in Gozo (Where to Stay in 2023) appeared first on We Seek Travel.

21 Best Sunset Viewpoint Locations in Malta, Gozo, & Comino

Olly Gaspar — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 05:39:41 +0000

The most detailed roundup of the best Malta sunset viewpoints on the islands of Malta, Gozo, and Comino.

It’s no doubt that the Maltese Islands are one of the best Mediterranean travel destinations for adventurers and viewpoint seekers.

From its high limestone cliffs to its epic natural arches, the archipelago of Malta also offers some of the best sunsets in Europe.

That’s why, in this guide, I’ll reveal the top 21 sunset spots in Malta, Gozo, and Comino. I hope it will convince you to visit this amazing adventure travel destination!

First: Here are Malta’s Best Sunset Tours
Best Sunset Spots on Malta’s Main Island
- 1. Dingli Cliffs
- 5. Malta Sunset Cruise
Unmissable Sunset Locations on Gozo
Comino Sunset Viewpoints
Where to Stay in Malta
More Malta Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

First: Here are Malta's Best Sunset Tours

4.5-Hour Sunset Sightseeing Cruise - the top-rated sunset cruise in Malta with a full-service bar
3-Hour Private Sunset Cruise from Gozo - skip the crowds and enjoy a private cruise to the best sunset spots on the Coast of Gozo and Comino
Lazy Pirate Party Boat - the most famous party boat in Malta includes a sunset cruise and party onboard a Turkish Gulet

Best Sunset Spots on Malta's Main Island

1. Dingli Cliffs

The Dingli Cliffs is a long stretch of towering limestone cliffs on the southwest coast of Malta's main island. At around 250 meters above sea level, this 2-kilometer cliff line includes Malta's highest points, offering excellent views over the Mediterranean Sea.

There are several viewpoints along this stretch of white cliffs, but my favorites are remote stretches of road leading up to the Radar ('Il Ballun'). From here, you'll get the most beautiful sunsets just a short walk from your car.

2. Chapel of Immaculate Conception in Mellieħa Bay

While the Dingli Cliffs are one of the most popular places to watch the sunset, you'll also find several hidden gems just like this tiny church hidden away in Malta's northeast point near the Coral Lagoon.

The Chapel of Immaculate Conception is a tiny church overlooking the pristine waters of Mellieħa Bay. I can almost guarantee that there won't be any other tourists here, which makes it the most romantic place to watch the warm summer glow fade behind the hilltop churches.

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The best way to experience both Malta and Gozo islands is to rent your own car! I recommend booking well in advance using price comparison sites like DiscoverCars if traveling in the busy summer season.

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3. Mtahleb

In the remote western tip of Malta, you'll find the wild region of Mtahleb. This is a great coastal hiking region and one of the best sunset points to watch the sun fade behind the horizon.

One of my favorite viewpoints in this region is Miġra l-Ferħa, a high cliff dropping vertically into deep, blue water and providing spectacular views!

4. The Blue Grotto & Wied Iż-Żurrieq

The Blue Grotto of Malta is an epic sea cave filled with crystal-clear water. It's one of the most popular sites in the country, but did you know that it's also a great place to spend your golden hour?

There is a viewpoint just behind the Blue Grotto near the village of Wied Iż-Żurrieq offering breathtaking views of the setting sun to the west. You can also head down to the village, where you'll find some excellent places to sit down near the edge of the sea.

5. Malta Sunset Cruise

Malta's coastline is incredibly unique, and there's no better way to explore it than from the water.

That's why I highly recommend booking a Maltese Sunset Cruise. These trips depart from Buggiba Jetty, which is easy to get to from the main tourist hotel areas.

The cruise includes a scenic boat ride, stopping at some of the best locations including the must-visit Blue Lagoon during the sunset!

Book A Sunset Cruise

6. Popeye Village Viewpoint at Anchor Bay

The Popeye Village on the western side of the island is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Malta. However, many don't know that its location in Anchor Bay is also a great place to visit, especially if you're chasing sunset viewpoints!

The edges of this narrow inlet are surrounded by rocky slopes forming a sheltered bay with a beautiful view of the setting sun.

7. Golden Bay

Golden Bay is world-famous for its red sands and crystal clear water, and due to its location on the western side of Malta, it's also the perfect sunset beach!

I recommend making a trip to Golden Bay for an afternoon swim, then relaxing on its golden sands while watching the sun set behind the limestone cliffs.

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8. Ghajn Tuffieha Bay

The unique clay cliffs of Għajn Tuffieħa in Malta's Il-Majjistral Nature & History Park is another excellent place to spend the last hours of the day.

This spot is located just south of the popular Golden Bay, but attracts a fraction of the tourists. I recommend hiking out to the Il-Qarraba headland, where you'll get a great view of the coast in both directions. Alternatively, walk across to Ġnejna Bay, another beautiful beach with many picturesque locations.

9. The Red Tower (It-Torri L-Ahmar) in Mellieha

If you're staying in the popular tourist hub of Mellieħa Bay, then you'll undoubtedly have spotted the Red Tower protruding from its hilltop location in the north.

This is known as It-Torri L-Aħmar, or Saint Agatha's Tower, and it's one of the best places to experience beautiful Maltese sunsets. Either walk from Mellieħa or drive up to the nearby parking area. From here, you'll get excellent views of Comino and the Gozo Channel!

10. Fomm ir-rih

Another off-the-beaten-path beach on the western side of Malta's main island, Fomm ir-rih is definitely worth adding to your sunset-chasing itinerary.

While the pebble beach itself is a little tricky to get down to, the cliffs above it make for an excellent viewpoint. There's also a historic WW2 Pillbox right nearby, which might be worth checking out!

We explored this region by renting a kayak at neighboring Gnejna Bay, which I highly recommend!

11. The Grand Harbour in Valletta

Valletta's Grand Harbour is perhaps the most iconic place in the country. While there aren't any great spots to watch the sunset over the water, it's still one of the most picturesque places during Golden Hour.

Head over to the Upper Barrakka Gardens for excellent views of the harbor, or pick a spot by the waterfront boardwalk and watch the traditional boats plotting along.

Don't Miss: Best Things to do in Valletta, Malta

12. The Three Cities

Across the Grand Harbour lies Malta's Three Cities of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua. This area is rich in history and traditional Maltese culture, but also offers some spectacular viewpoints over the capital city.

#1 Rated Three Cities Tour

Looking to cut out all the hassle of organizing a day trip to the Three Cities on your own? Book this top-rated 3 cities tour which includes a traditional luzzu or dgħajsa harbour ferry and a walking tour run by a knowledgeable local guide.

Book Your Tour Online

Unmissable Sunset Locations on Gozo

13. Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs

With remote, rugged coastlines and epic geological formations, Malta's sister island of Gozo is the country's adventure capital! One of my favorite Gozo sunset points is the Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs, situated on the island's southern coast near the village of Sannat.

Depending on the time of the year, you'll either get to watch the sun slip beyond the Mediterranean horizon or slowly set behind the white cliffs.

14. Sanap Cliffs Sunset Viewpoint on Gozo

Along the same cliff line as Ta’ Ċenċ lies another breathtaking sunset spot named the Sanap Cliffs.

This is another great spot as it's one of the highest points of Gozo Island. Additionally, the views of nearby Rabat and its famous Citadella.

15. Wied il-Mielaħ

Gozo Island is well-known for its awesome natural arches. While the Azure window is no more, Wied il-Mielaħ is still a remarkable feature worth checking out, especially during sunset.

From this vantage point, the sun usually sets behind the coast, and if you're lucky, you'll get a golden ray of light shining through the arch!

Travel Tip: When touring Gozo's rugged north coast, make sure to stop by at the nearby Wied il-Ghasri Beach and the Marsalforn Salt Flats, two more epic spots for sunset photography!

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16. Dwejra Bay

Dwejra Bay is a unique place and home to several highlight attractions like the Blue Hole, Fungus Rock, and the Inland Sea. And, due to its western location, it's also one of the best sunset points in Gozo.

Grab a mat and climb up to the cliffs above the clear blue water of the Blue Lagoon for one of the stand-out viewpoints in the region!

Nearby cove in Dwejra Bay

17. Tal Mixta Cave

Heading over to the northern end of Gozo and we'll find the famous red sands of Ramla Bay, one of the most popular beaches in Malta thanks to its shallow waters and soft sand.

While the beach itself is great during the sunset, I recommend walking up to Tal-Mixta Cave, hidden away on the cliffs to the east. This cave features a huge, open face, framing the beach lit up by the golden glow of the setting summer sun.

18. Calypso Cave Viewpoint

Sitting on top of a hill on the opposite side of Rambla Bay lies another famous Maltese cave. Calpyso's Cave, while now mostly collapsed, is supposedly the cave mentioned in Homer's famous tale of "the Odyssey".

Unfortunately, access to the cave is forbidden. However, travelers will find an epic viewpoint right above it, which is also one of the best spots in Gozo!

Comino Sunset Viewpoints

19. The Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is perhaps one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Europe. Picture crystal clear turquoise water dropping into a deep blue and edged by orange and white limestone– a landscape photographer's dream!

The Blue Lagoon and the nearby Crystal Lagoon are great places to swim but are also one of the most unique sunset locations on Comino. Either book an evening sunset cruise to the lagoon or take the short walk up to the islet view just above it and watch the sun light up the translucent waters.

20. Santa Marija Caves

The Santa Marija caves are another highlight attraction on Comino, and quite an amazing place to photograph the Maltese sunset.

The best way to access the caves is from the sea, either by kayak or on an island boat trip. However, it's also possible to enter the cave from the land by taking the short coastal walking track from Santa Maria Beach.

Alternatively, hike up to the top of the caves to Ġebel Comino, the highest point on the island for one of the most unique sunset vantage points!

21. Saint Mary's Tower & Lantern Point

On Comino's southernmost point lies the Saint Mary's Tower, a historic fortified watchtower offering outstanding views over the entire Maltese archipelago.

Travelers can reach this point by hiking up the limestone cliffs from the Blue Lagoon. If you do, make sure to walk out to Lantern Point, another top Malta sunset spot reaching far out into the Gozo Channel.

Where to Stay in Malta

While visitors will find hotels and resorts scattered all over Malta's islands, the most popular neighborhoods to base yourself in Malta include Valletta, Sliema & St Julian's, Mellieħa Bay, and Gozo Island.

Travelers also have a broad variety of accommodation types, from 5-star resorts to traditional terraced boutique hotels. To save you time searching, below are the four best accommodation picks for Malta, based on location, reviews, and my personal experience.

St Julian's & Sliema Area: The Hilton
This is Malta's premiere resort, located at the heart of the picturesque Portomaso Marina. This is a great pick if you're trying to balance great location with utmost luxury.
Valletta: Iniala Harbour House
Perched atop Valletta's stunning St Barbara Bastion, this incredible boutique experience is well-regarded as one of the best accommodation options in Malta. The experience offers stunning views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities from traditional Maltese balconies.
Mellieħa - db Seabank Resort
The db Seabank is well-regarded as the best resort in the calmer Mellieħa area. Situated just feet from the white sandy shores of Malta's longest beach, this complete all-inclusive hotel offers features five restaurants, a fitness center, a spa, multiple pools, and even a bowling alley!
Gozo - Quaint Boutique Hotel (Nadur)
Accommodation on Malta's quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.

View more on Booking.com

Travel tip: Accommodation in Malta sells out quickly, especially for the summer vacation period. This is a location where you do not want to book at the last minute!

Iniala Harbour House in Valletta

The Ultimate Malta Travel Resource

Looking for more Malta travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

More Malta Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

I hope that you've enjoyed this detailed list of the best Malta sunset locations!

While you're here, make sure to check out some of my other travel guides to the Maltese Islands below.

The post 21 Best Sunset Viewpoint Locations in Malta, Gozo, & Comino appeared first on We Seek Travel.

35 Best Beaches in Malta, Gozo & Comino – Ultimate Guide With Map

Olly Gaspar — Mon, 12 Dec 2022 11:28:33 +0000

Your ultimate guide to the best Malta beaches from the main island, Comino, and Gozo.

With more than 300 days of sunshine per year, the Maltese islands are officially Europe’s sunniest country!

Combine this great weather with beautiful beaches, secluded rocky coves, and the crystal clear, Mediterranean Sea, and you’ve got yourself the ideal seaside vacation spot!

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll reveal the 35 best beaches in Malta, from Mellieha Bay on the main island to the far-flung golden sands of Ramla Bay on Gozo! If you scroll to the bottom of this post, I’ve also included a useful beach map to help you find your way around the coast!

Beautiful Sandy Beaches on Malta Island

1. Golden Bay Beach

Famous for its golden red sands and crystal clear water, Golden Bay is up there with one of the most popular beaches in Malta!

Located on the northwest region of the main island, this beach is also well-known for its water sports activities and incredible seaside resort, the Radisson Blue Resort– one of the best places to stay in Malta.

Car Rentals in Malta

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2. Għajn Tuffieħa Beach (Riviera Beach)

Situated just south of Golden Bay, Għajn Tuffieħa Beach is another sandy beach protected by a rocky headland. Here, you’ll find shallow waters which are great for swimming with kids.

While by no means a secluded hidden gem (more of these below), Għajn Tuffieħa is often much less crowded than Golden Bay.

Additionally, travelers will find a few walking tracks just above the sandy shores. The best one winds up to a View Point on the Il-Qarraba headland, providing spectacular views of the transparent waters of the Mediterranean.

3. Gnejna Beach

Gnejna Bay holds another excellent sandy beach known for water sports and unique rocky geological formations.

This is a great option for those looking to do some kayaking, as just around the headland you’ll find some spectacular sea caves, known as Ta’ Marija Cave.

4. Mellieħa Bay (Għadira Bay)

Mellieħa Bay is one of the most popular beaches in the north of Malta. That’s because Mellieħa Bay is Malta’s longest sandy beach, with peaceful, shallow waters that are very safe for young children.

This region is also one of the best areas to stay in Malta, with some of the best seaside resorts and beach clubs located in this surrounding area of Għadira Bay.

5. Armier Bay Beach

Moving further north of Malta and we’ll discover some of the best secluded beaches on the island. Armier Bay Beach and Little Armier Beach are two beautiful protected coves on Malta’s northeast tip providing soft sands and clear water for swimming.

This is a popular spot for those looking to escape the crowds at some of Malta’s more popular beaches like Mellieħa Beach and Golden Bay. Furthermore, kayak rental stalls often operate on the beach here, which is perfect for exploring the rocky north.

6. Paradise Bay Beach

The northern peninsula of Malta is where you will find the Cirkewwa Passenger Terminal for the Gozo Channel Ferry. While it seems contradictory, one of Malta’s most beautiful beaches is tucked just around the corner from this terminal!

Paradise Bay Beach is an incredibly beautiful bay that is perfect for swimming and snorkeling in scenic natural surroundings. In fact, the beach is so tranquil that you’ll likely forget that you’re right next to a ferry terminal!

7. Pretty Bay Beach

Another stunning beach with surprising surroundings is Pretty Bay beach near Il-Bajja s-Sabiha in the south of Malta.

Pretty Bay is another sandy beach with several hotels and traditional limestone buildings dotting its shores. This is a great place for sunbaking, boating, or grabbing an ice cream or espresso at the many local shops.

While this beach is undoubtedly a great place to hang out, there is the unfortunate eye-sore of the Malta freeport in direct view. Nonetheless, the clear waters and nearby amenities mean that Pretty Bay deserves a spot on this list of the best beaches in Malta.

8. St. George’s Bay

As we make our way across the main island to the lively resort and hotel areas of Paceville and St Julians we’ll find the protected little cove called St. George’s Bay.

If you’re staying at one of the many hotels or all-inclusive resorts in the area, this little beach is well worth visiting! The waters are quite deep on this side, but the long, arching coast protects it from almost all wind.

9. Balluta Bay Beach

Similarly to St. George’s Bay, Balluta Bay Beach is a popular little sandy beach located smack-bang in the heart of the busy St Julian’s resort area.

This is a good spot for a quick swim or, head over to the Balluta Watersports stall and rent a jet ski!

Tip: Balluta Bay & St. George’s Bay can get very busy due to their central locations. However, if you walk north around the bay in Balluta, you’ll find another small rocky beach called Exiles Beach, a small local hidden gem.

10. Malta Freeport Beach

Another unlikely location to have a beautiful white sand beach, Malta Freeport Beach is surprisingly a nice and very unique place to swim!

Situated directly opposite the busy port, this little strip of sand makes for an excellent place to stretch out on a towel or go for a quick swim away from the crowds at nearby Pretty Bay.

11. Imġiebaħ Beach

Looking for a secluded cove without tourists? A great spot is Imġiebaħ Beach, a quiet and remote beach with clear water situated on Malta’s northeast shore, not far from Mellieħa Bay.

This one is definitely more of a local’s beach, and one of my absolute favorites in Malta!

12. St. Thomas Bay Sandy Beach

St. Thomas Bay is an excellent sandy beach located between the beautiful villages of Marsaskala and the famous fishing village of Marsaxlokk on Malta’s east coast.

This is another local favorite, with a few rocky shores and sections of beautiful sandy beaches hidden to the south beneath the Munxar cliffs.

Get the Malta Multi-Pass

Save money & time with the brand-new Malta Multi-Pass. This includes free public transport and:

Tickets to top Malta attractions incl. the Grand Harbour cruise & Comino Blue Lagoon trip
Hop-on-hop-off bus
20+ Heritage Malta sites

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Rocky Beaches, Natural & Secluded Coves in Malta

13. Ramla tal-Qortin & Ramla tal-Bir

While there are plenty of picturesque sandy beaches in the archipelago, what truly makes Malta unique is its amazing limestone shorelines. One of my favorite spots to hang out on the rocks and snorkel in deep, clear water are the two bays surrounding the former Ramla Bay Resort (currently under renovation).

These are known as Ramla tal-Bir and Ramla tal-Qortin, or the Ramla Bays of northern Malta island. Not to be confused with the famous Ramla Bay on Gozo, these two scenic bays both have a long, flat rocky shore perfect for summer picnics.

The water is also crystal clear here, and one of the best beaches in Malta for snorkeling!

14. Anchor Bay (Popeye Village)

On the opposite side of Mellieħa, across the narrow, isthmus-like section of Malta’s main island lies the former film-set turned theme park known as Popeye Village of Anchor Bay.

Many tourists visit Popeye Village to see the set, but not many are aware that this is also a great place for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving! Just below the cliff to the south of the village is a sheltered area providing easy access to the water, and a great place to have a barbecue or picnic.

Additionally, sunset chasers will definitely want to head to this spot during the golden hour, as this is the ideal place to catch a sunset, with spectacular views of the sun sinking below the Mediterranean horizon.

Featured in: Best Sunset Viewpoints in Malta & Gozo

15. Qarraba Bay

Qarraba Bay is a rocky area wedged between Gnejna and Għajn Tuffieħa beaches. This spot is one of the most scenic in Malta, with unique limestone cliff formations unlike anywhere else on the island.

I recommend renting a Kayak at one of the nearby beaches and visiting this bay, which is usually only accessible from the sea. Additionally, the nearby Ta’Babu Cove and the protruding rock makes for an excellent snorkeling spot!

16. Ghar Lapsi Beach

Ghar Lapsi is a remote area in the very south of Malta’s main island. While often missed by most tourists, this location features some scenic coastal walking tracks, passing some spectacular beaches complete with sea caves and clear blue waters.

17. Zurrieq Valley Sea Inlet

While most tourists will visit Wied iz-Zurrieq for the opportunity to explore the incredible Blue Grotto, the tiny rocky inlet near the Blue Grotto boat service is also a spectacular place to swim in Malta.

These rocky shores are very picturesque, with sharp drops into deep water, making for a great cliff jumping spot. Additionally, scuba divers will not want to miss the nearby Um El-Faroud wreck, which is one of the best wreck dive sites in Malta.

18. Il-Kalanka

Next up is my favorite rocky beach in Malta, the pristine Il-Kalanka bay near Marsaxlokk in eastern Malta. This one is situated near the very end of Il-Kalanka point, near the lighthouse.

This bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in Malta, complete with deep, calm water to jump in straight from the limestone rocks. Furthermore, there are steel ladders fixed around the bay, making for easy access and a lot of fun!

19. St. Peter’s Pool

Malta is renowned for its spectacular natural pools. One of the very best is found just north of Il-Kalanka beach and is known as St. Peter’s Pool. This is a horseshoe-shaped natural swimming pool with deep, crystal-clear water.

Many tourists and locals will head down to this pool in the summer months to relax and jump off the limestone rocks into the pool. If you’re up for some fun and adventure, St. Peter’s Pool is a great place to visit on your Malta beach-hopping itinerary.

20. Il-Ħofra l-Kbira & Ta Kalanka Sea Cave

Heading north from Kalanka Point, on the small peninsula located between Marsaxlokk and St. Thomas Bay is a secluded rocky beach that is very little-known by tourists.

Accessible only via a single road leading out to the headland, here you’ll discover an incredible rocky beach complete with a large sea cave, providing excellent shelter during the hot summer days on Malta island.

21. Coral Lagoon

In terms of hidden gems, they don’t get much better than the Coral Lagoon. Appropriately named, this collapsed sea cave is a unique geological natural pool etched into the limestone cliffs on Malta’s northern point.

You’ll need a kayak or boat to access this one, but once inside you’ll discover one of the most tranquil places in Malta. The lagoon is filled with azure water and corals, and is deep enough to swim and snorkel.

22. Qawra Point Beach

Travelers staying in the buzzling Buġibba area will certainly want to add Qawra Point to their list of beaches to visit in Malta.

This rocky coastline is hidden at the tip of the bay, just beneath the famous Cafe del Mar beach bar. There’s plenty of space to relax here, and plenty of access to the deep bay.

23. Buġibba Perched Beach

The main beach in Buġibba is really a sandy one, but the sand is artificial, placed on a beautiful rocky shoreline lined with palm trees and resorts. This beach is quite busy but is a great place to swim and lounge beneath a sun umbrella with a cocktail.

24. Mistra Bay

Across the bay from Buġibba is a quiet, rocky coastline area known as Mistra. Mistra Bay Beach, while certainly not as vibrant as its immediate neighbors, it provides a tranquil place to relax or rent a kayak from.

Best Travel Insurance for Malta

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Amazing Beaches on Comino Island

25. Blue Lagoon

Comino’s Blue Lagoon is Malta’s most notable natural attraction. Picture iconic orange limestone cliffs dropping into some of the clearest waters you’ve ever seen.

Located on the smallest island, Comino, and only via a boat trip from Malta or Gozo, Blue Lagoon also has one of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the country! One of the best ways to get to the Blue Lagoon is to book the popular Blue Lagoon & Comino Caves trip, which is great value for money.

Book a Blue Lagoon Trip

26. Crystal Lagoon

While not as famous or well-known as the Blue Lagoon, Comino’s Crystal Lagoon is arguably just as beautiful. This picturesque bay is situated on the southwest corner of the tiny island and is often missed by tourists.

Here, you’ll discover a deep bay with crystal clear waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. There’s also a small pebble beach at the edge of the bay, providing a great place to relax as well.

27. St Niklaw Bay

Travelers taking the ferry or boat trip to the Blue Lagoon will likely soon realize just how busy this place gets. If you’re looking for a Malta beach to escape the crowds from on Comino, take the short island walking trail to St. Niklaw Bay, just a few hundred meters from the Blue Lagoon.

This bay has a small sandy beach with turquoise waters– great for swimming or snorkeling!

28. Santa Maria Bay

Besides the Blue Lagoon, Santa Maria Bay (Santa Marija Bay) is the most popular beach on Comino Island. The waters here are quite shallow, with a long stretch of white sand lining its shores.

The color of the water in this bay is unbelievably blue, providing excellent conditions for snorkeling. Additionally, visitors will have the option of taking a short walk over to the Santa Maria Caves, which are a must-visit attraction on Comino!

Top Beaches on Gozo Island

29. Ħondoq ir-Rummien

Starting directly across the channel from Comino over to Malta’s sister island; Gozo we have the picturesque and compact beach named Hondoq Bay (Ħondoq ir-Rummien Bay).

This is a very small beach with soft sands, protected by rocky outcrops on either side. Furthermore, there are several water sports companies operating here, so you have the option of water skiing, kayaking, or renting a SUP!

30. Ramla Beach (Ramla Bay)

Perhaps one of the most famous beaches in Malta, Ramla Bay Beach is a spectacular stretch of red sand overlooking the northern shores of Gozo Island.

Similarly to Mellieħa on the main island, the shallow water here makes it the perfect place for water sports or for enjoying a day at the beach with the family.

Additionally, Ramla Bay is known for its adjacent caves, Calypso’s Cave, and the spectacular viewpoint cave called Tal-Mixta Cave– go check them out!

Calypsos Cave Viewpoint of Ramla Bay

31. Wied Il-Għasri

My personal favorite beach on Gozo Island, Malta is Wied Il-Għasri. This is one of the most scenic rocky inlets in the Maltese Islands and features a minuscule sandy beach entering into a snaking river-like canyon leading to the Mediterranean Sea in the north.

The Wied il Ghasri cove also contains several surrounding underwater caves, which makes it a popular spot for scuba divers and snorkelers.

32. Inland Sea

The Inland Sea might not appear on all lists of Malta’s best beaches, but I’d say it’s one of the most unique! This is a magnificent natural saltwater lagoon situated in Dwejra Bay on the island of Gozo’s rugged west.

This shallow semi-circular lagoon is lined by a thin, pebble beach and is often dotted with small fishing boats laying anchor during rough seas.

33. The Blue Hole

Malta’s Blue Hole is another spectacular rock formation right next to the famous Inland Sea in Dwejra Bay (Gozo).

While not a traditional beach, it is a great place to swim and snorkel, as this awesome vertical underwater tunnel is filled with crystal clear water! This is also located right beneath the former Azure Window!

34. Xlendi Beach

Xlendi Beach in Gozo’s lively Xlendi township is an excellent place to visit if you’re chasing beach bars, caves, and an overall chill vibe.

While the beach here is very small, travelers will want to check out the cliffside walking trails leading to a nearby cave and cliff-jumping spot! Afterward, go check out the nearby salt pans or grab a drink at one of the many seaside bars.

35. Mġarr ix-Xini

Looking to get off the beaten path on your Gozo beach hopping itinerary? If you’re visiting during the high season, make sure you include a visit to Mġarr ix-Xini.

This is a sheltered bay similar to Wied Il-Għasri but attracts a fraction of the tourists. Due to the high, fjord-like cliffs, this bay is usually very sheltered, even during bad weather.

Furthermore, beachgoers in Malta can enjoy the small pebble strand or the many flat rocks around it, providing a great place to sit down with friends and family.

Malta Accommodation Guide – Where to Stay Near the Beach

While visitors will find hotels and resorts scattered all over Malta’s islands, the most popular neighborhoods to base yourself in Malta include Valletta, Sliema & St Julian’s, Mellieħa Bay, and Gozo Island.

St Julian’s & Sliema Area: The Hilton
This is Malta’s premiere resort, located at the heart of the picturesque Portomaso Marina. This is a great pick if you’re trying to balance great location with utmost luxury.
Valletta: Iniala Harbour House
Perched atop Valletta’s stunning St Barbara Bastion, this incredible boutique experience is well-regarded as one of the best accommodation options in Malta. The experience offers stunning views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities from traditional Maltese balconies.
Mellieħa – db Seabank Resort
The db Seabank is well-regarded as the best resort in the calmer Mellieħa area. Situated just feet from the white sandy shores of Malta’s longest beach, this complete all-inclusive hotel offers features five restaurants, a fitness center, a spa, multiple pools, and even a bowling alley!
Gozo – Quaint Boutique Hotel (Nadur)
Accommodation on Malta’s quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.

View more on Booking.com

Travel tip: Accommodation in Malta sells out quickly, especially for the summer vacation period. This is a location where you do not want to book at the last minute!

Iniala Harbour House in Valletta

Map With the Best Beaches in Malta

Travel Hack: Click on the photo of the map above and it will load on your Google Maps app (must be installed on your phone). Then:
– Save it by clicking the grey star at the top, which will add it to “Your Places” on your Google Maps account.
– Now you have a handy digital app on the go with all the scene locations pinned
– Just refer back to this article (or bookmark it) for ideas and directions.

Useful Beach Resources for Malta

Below are some useful resources that’ll serve you well as you explore the spectacular beaches in Malta, Gozo, and Comino!

The Blue Flag Beaches in Malta

This flag system is one of the world’s most recognized voluntary awards for beaches, awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) to beaches that meet environmental standards. There are several blue flag beaches in Malta, including

Mellieħa Bay
St George’s Bay
Qawra Bay
Golden Bay
Paradise Bay
Ghajn Tuffieha
Ramla Bay (the beach in Gozo)
Hondoq ir-Rummien

How to get to the Beaches in Malta

By far, the best way to explore the Maltese islands is to rent a car. However, during the busy summer months, cars can sell out quickly. I recommend comparing prices across dealerships in St Julian, Mellieħa, and the International Airport on a comparison site like DiscoverCars.

Alternatively, you can always use Malta’s well-connected public transport bus network– just plan ahead for the return trip!

Common Jellyfish

Due to rising sea levels in the southern Mediterranean, Malta suffers from a growing jellyfish problem.

Luckily, these stingers are not dangerous, but some regular culprits like the Mauve Stinger can leave a slight burn.

Luckily, there is a useful map that tourists can check out showing the best beaches in Malta to avoid jellies, based on weather conditions like wind and waves. Additionally, this map will show information about rough weather and give advice on the best beaches to visit during the summer months in Malta.

The Ultimate Malta Travel Resource

Looking for more Malta travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

FAQs About Visiting Beaches in Malta

Are the beaches of Malta sandy?

There are many sandy beaches on the main island, including the popular Golden Bay and Mellieħa Bay. On the tiny island of Comino, you’ll also find soft sand beaches on the north coast, including San Niklaw and Santa Maria Bay. The most famous sandy beach on Gozo is Ramla Bay.

Which beach in Malta has no Jellyfish?

Pesky stinging jellyfish often wash up on the shores of the Maltese islands, especially following rough seas or bad weather. It’s a good idea to check the jellyfish map (included above) for updated recommendations on which beach to visit to avoid stingers!

When to go beach hopping in Malta?

The best time to go swimming in Malta is during the warm summer months, between June and August. However, late spring and early autumn are also usually quite warm and calm.

What are Malta’s top 10 beaches?

Below I’ve listed the top 10 beaches by popularity. Note however that there are many more beaches that are not as popular but easily just as, if not more, beautiful.

1. Golden Bay – Main Island
2. Mellieħa Bay – Main Island
3. St. George’s Bay – Main Island
4. Għajn Tuffieħa – Main Island
5. Ramla Bay – Gozo
6. Armier Bay – Main Island
7. Santa Maria Beach – Comino
8. Hondoq Bay – Gozo
9. Blue Lagoon – Comino
10. Xlendi Bay – Gozo

Are there any beaches with sunbeds?

There are many beaches across the archipelago where you can rent a sunbed. Some of the best include Golden Bay, Mellieħa Bay, and Ramla Bay.

More Malta Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

I hope that you’ve enjoyed this Malta beach guide featuring the best sandy beaches, rocky coves, and secluded inlets of the Maltese Islands.

While you’re still here, don’t miss some of my other epic Malta travel guides! I’m sure you’ll find something you would have missed!

The post 35 Best Beaches in Malta, Gozo & Comino – Ultimate Guide With Map appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Wied il Ghasri Beach Gozo (Malta) – Complete Guide

Olly Gaspar — Sat, 26 Nov 2022 04:14:49 +0000

Discover the incredible secluded inlet of Wied il-Ghasri Beach on Gozo Island, Malta.

Gozo Island is full of amazing hidden gems! One of my absolute favorite spots on the island to relax and enjoy swimming in the Mediterranean Sea is the scenic, fjord-like cove of Wied il Ghasri (Wied il-Għasri).

In this quick guide, I’ll reveal everything you need to know about one of the most scenic inlets in Malta. I’ll show you exactly how to get here, what to expect, and what you can’t miss in the surrounding area.

About Wied Il Ghasri Beach
Where is Wied Il Ghasri Beach?
How to Get to Wied Il Ghasri on Gozo
Visiting Wied Il-Ghasri Beach on Gozo – What to Expect
- Nearby Caves at Wied Il-Ghasri
- After the Beach: Go See the Saltpans
Where to Stay on Gozo Island
More Photos from Wied Il Ghasri, Gozo
More Gozo & Malta Beach Guides & Adventure Inspiration

About Wied Il Ghasri Beach

For photographers and nature lovers, Wied il-Ghasri is likely already high on your list of epic places to visit on Gozo.

The beach lies in the L-Għasri Valley and connects to the open sea via a thin, snaking cove of deep water edged by high limestone cliffs. You'll likely have seen this beautiful coastal gorge on social media or in tourism campaigns because it really is one of the most beautiful spots in Malta!

At the end of the inlet, you'll discover a picturesque, tiny pebbly beach with easy access to the water.

The Wied il Ghasri cove also contains several surrounding underwater caves, which makes it a popular spot for scuba divers (more on this below).

Best Gozo Tours & Activities

Blue Lagoon Tour - the best-rated Blue Lagoon tour from Gozo
Gozo Day Trip Jeep Tour from Malta - explore the island of Gozo on a small-group Jeep adventure tour from Malta
Gozo ATV Quad Bike Tour - self-ride tour of Gozo on an ATV!

More Top-Rated Tours on Gozo

Where is Wied Il Ghasri Beach?

Wied il Ghasri beach is located on the very northern tip of Gozo Island, Malta. It is known as the Għasri Valley, which begins at Ta’ Dbieġi Hill and winds down through the village of l-Għasri towards the open sea on the north coast of Gozo.

There is a road leading to a short walking track that descends down to its pebbly shores. There is a decently-sized dedicated parking area just near the track. However, it's not as big or developed as you'll find at the Blue Hole or Inland Sea.

Below I've pinned the exact location to help you find it.

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How to Get to Wied Il Ghasri on Gozo

Below are the three best ways to reach Wied il-Ghasri bay on Gozo.

1. Wied il-Ghasri on the Epic Gozo Quad Bike Tour

Travelers staying on the main island of Malta and looking to see the best of Gozo on a single day will definitely want to check out the Full Day Quad Tour on Get Your Guide.

You'll get your return boat transport to Gozo included, as well as a fun day of exploring the island on Quad Bike. Top sites include:

Wied il Mielah Window
Wied il Ghasri Bay
Sanap Cliffs Sunset
Comino Caves & Blue Lagoon

Book Your Tour Now

2. Rent a Car Or Quad Bike on Gozo

There are a few rental car companies on Gozo. However, generally, these offices charge much more than on the main island. Therefore, if you're looking to explore the best of Malta, I'd recommend checking availability and comparing prices using a tool like DiscoverCars.

Then, you can easily take the Gozo Channel Ferry, departing from Ċirkewwa every 45 minutes or so.

Parking area near the beach trail

3. Via the Ta’ Ġurdan Walk

It's also possible to visit Wied Il Ghasri on the awesome 12-kilometer country walk, which starts and finishes in the village of Gharb. The trail, known as the Ta’ Ġurdan Walk, covers scenic hills and valleys, passing highlights like the St. Dimitri Chapel, Ta’ Ġurdan Lighthouse, the Ta Pinu Sanctuary, the Wied il-Mielah arch, and of course, the Wied il-Ghasri Bay.

The walk takes roughly 4-5 hours to complete and is definitely a great way to experience this beautiful region of Gozo.

Visiting Wied Il-Ghasri Beach on Gozo - What to Expect

As soon as we arrived at Wied Il Ghasri, we walked around the side of the bay to get a unique vantage point of this incredible Maltese beach.

Looking down, it seemed a bit inaccessible at first. However, there are a series of steps cut into the cliff face, which takes you directly down to the beach.

From the top of the steep cliffs, we had a great vantage point of the quiet bathing area below, as well as the head of the inlet reaching out to the open Mediterranean Sea.

The snaking gorge of Wied il-Ghasri features some of the clearest, turquoise water in Malta! We quickly sent up the drone and captured some of the images you see in this blog post. Next, we spent about an hour soaking up some rays and enjoying the relaxing ambiance of this sheltered cove.

Carved steps down to the beach

Nearby Caves at Wied Il-Ghasri

This Gozo bay is famous for its Cathedral Cave dive site located at the start of the inlet. This is an underwater cave and features some pretty interesting swim-throughs. While we didn't dive at this site, we did walk over and take a look!

After the Beach: Go See the Saltpans

Looking for more attractions to explore after visiting Wied il-Ghasri.

Just a short walk or bike ride away you will find the famous Saltpans of Gozo (Xwejni). These are man-made salt pans, originally carved during the Roman Times as an effective method of collecting fresh sea salt. This method is still used today by dedicated families passing down the craft for centuries.

From the bay, simply head back to the unsealed road and continue along the coastal road known as Triq ix-Xwejni. Here, you'll find them all the way along the coast until you reach the seaside hamlet of Xwejni Bay.

Where to Stay on Gozo Island

Due to its small size and well-connected network of buses and roads, choosing the ideal location to stay in Gozo is less crucial than on the main island of Malta.

However, if you ask, locals will always tell you that to get the complete Gozitan experience, what's more important is picking a traditional boutique hotel over a luxury resort or modern hotel. You'll find many boutique hotels in Gozo dotted all over the island, from Nadur to Xlendi. Below are the 3 top picks.

Quaint Boutique Hotel - Nadur
Accommodation on Malta’s quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.
Viewpoint Boutique Living - Xlendi
This family-run boutique hotel dates back 300 years and is situated on a beautiful cliff overlooking the Xlendi Valley and the Mediterranean Sea. The location is ideal for couples looking to get away, with convenient access to the beach and just a short 2 km drive to the Citadella.
Kempinski Hotel - San Lawrenz
For travelers preferring modern, 5-star luxury, the Kempinski Hotel is your best bet. This amazing hotel is located in San Lawrenz, on a 30,000m² tropical oasis. An excellent choice for larger groups and families as there are self-catering apartment options as well!

More on Booking.com

The Ultimate Malta Travel Resource

Looking for more Malta travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

More Photos from Wied Il Ghasri, Gozo

All photographs on this blog post are taken by me and available for purchase as fine art prints or for commercial licensing. Please contact me for more information or read about how to use my images for free.

More Gozo & Malta Beach Guides & Adventure Inspiration

I hope that you've enjoyed this quick guide to visiting Wied il Ghasri Bay on Gozo Island, Malta. While you're still here, make sure to check out some of my other travel guides for more inspiration and ideas for places to visit!

The post Wied il Ghasri Beach Gozo (Malta) – Complete Guide appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Mgarr ix Xini Beach Gozo – A Malta Hidden Gem

Olly Gaspar — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 10:28:48 +0000

Discover Mgarr ix Xini Beach, a beautiful, narrowly snaking cove with a pristine pebble beach on the island of Gozo, Malta.

If you’re planning your adventures on Gozo, make sure to include a visit to Mgarr ix Xini Beach on Gozo’s southern coast.

This beach is definitely off the beaten path, and very few tourists ever make it here. If you’d like to explore a stunning, secluded bay that’s great for swimming, relaxing, or scuba diving, then don’t miss this one!

About Mgarr Ix Xini Beach on Gozo Island
Where is Mġarr ix-Xini Bay?
How to Get to Mgarr ix Xini Bay
What to Expect at Mgarr ix Xini Beach on Gozo
- The Beach
- Scuba Diving Sites at Mġarr ix-Xini
Where to Stay on Gozo Island
More Gozo Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

About Mgarr Ix Xini Beach on Gozo Island

Mġarr ix-Xini Bay is a very narrow bay filled with deep water that is perfect for swimming. Situated in a steep-sided natural valley, this tiny pebble beach features an adjacent cleared area with steps leading to a picnic table.

Historically, this bay played an important role for the Knights of Malta, serving as a small harbor for galleys. To protect it and keep watch, there is a small watchtower built on the cliff named Mġarr ix-Xini Tower, which, dating back to the 1600s, has been restored several times.

While this spot is little-known among tourists, the bay did appear in the movie "By the Sea", starring Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt.

However, these days, it's mostly visited by Gozitan locals and a few scuba divers. Additionally, the steep cliffs of the gorge do offer some good trad routes for climbing as well.

Best Gozo Tours & Activities

Blue Lagoon Tour - the best-rated Blue Lagoon tour from Gozo
Gozo Day Trip Jeep Tour from Malta - explore the island of Gozo on a small-group Jeep adventure tour from Malta
Gozo ATV Quad Bike Tour - self-ride tour of Gozo on an ATV!

More Top-Rated Tours on Gozo

Where is Mġarr ix-Xini Bay?

This tiny pebble beach lies within a narrow gorge close to the village of Għajnsielem and nearby Mġarr Harbour, where you'll find the Gozo ferry terminal. The bay is accessible via a sealed road running through the nearest village of Xewkija.

Other attractions in this part of Gozo include the famous Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs, Sanap Cliffs, and Xlendi Bay.

Below is a map pinning the exact location of this bay to help you find it.

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How to Get to Mgarr ix Xini Bay

Currently, there are no tours that include a guided visit to this bay. However, this is probably a good thing, as it keeps the place relaxed and certainly allows it to keep its hidden gem nature.

What this means for travelers is that if you want to visit this bay, you'll need to rent your own car or quad bike.

While there are car rental offices on Gozo, the most cost-effective way to rent a car in Malta is to do so on the main island. If you're still planning your trip, I recommend comparing prices well in advance using DiscoverCars to get the best deal.

Once you've got your set of wheels, you'll want to follow the directions on your navigation map. The best way is to take the Triq l-Mġarr westbound, then follow the small side streets down to the bay. The descent can be quite narrow and steep, so if you've got a loaded 2-door hatchback, make sure you're confident you can make it back up the hill!

What to Expect at Mgarr ix Xini Beach on Gozo

We arrived at this stunning bay quite early in the morning while looking for an off the beaten path beach to swim at. We noticed that the majority of the people at Mġarr ix-Xini were locals, besides one small team of scuba diving tourists.

The Beach

The beach itself is quite small, but very picturesque. There are some small shops near the waterfront, as well as a small kayak rental place. We decided to climb the cliffs on the western side of the gorge to get a better look.

I think this is one of the best beaches in Malta!

Then, we enjoyed a very relaxing swim in some of the most crystal clear water in Malta! Locals have installed a rope lined with buoys marking the safe area to swim near the beach.

Scuba Diving Sites at Mġarr ix-Xini

This location is a popular dive site at night, sloping down gently to roughly 17 meters upon reaching the Ta' Ċenċ inlet at the end of the gorge. There are two small caves here, which most dive shops only recommended to experienced divers.

Additionally, this fjord-like bay contains a weathered wreck called the MV Xlendi, which once served as a Gozo Ferry but was sunk purposely to create the artificial reef.

Where to Stay on Gozo Island

Due to its small size and well-connected network of buses and roads, choosing the ideal location to stay in Gozo is less crucial than on the main island of Malta.

Quaint Boutique Hotel - Nadur
Accommodation on Malta’s quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.
Viewpoint Boutique Living - Xlendi
This family-run boutique hotel dates back 300 years and is situated on a beautiful cliff overlooking the Xlendi Valley and the Mediterranean Sea. The location is ideal for couples looking to get away, with convenient access to the beach and just a short 2 km drive to the Citadella.
Kempinski Hotel - San Lawrenz
For travelers preferring modern, 5-star luxury, the Kempinski Hotel is your best bet. This amazing hotel is located in San Lawrenz, on a 30,000m² tropical oasis. An excellent choice for larger groups and families as there are self-catering apartment options as well!

More on Booking.com

The Ultimate Malta Travel Resource

Looking for more Malta travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

More Gozo Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

Did you enjoy this hidden gem travel guide to the scenic Mgarr ix Xini beach on southern Gozo Island?

While you're here, make sure to check out some of my other blog posts and guides for Malta. I've written quite a few, and I bet you'll find something new to add to your travel itinerary!

The post Mgarr ix Xini Beach Gozo – A Malta Hidden Gem appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Calypso’s Cave Gozo – Everything You Need to Know

Olly Gaspar — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 07:44:23 +0000

A complete guide to the famous Calypso’s Cave on the island of Gozo, Malta– said to be the nymph Calypso’s cave in Homer’s famous Odyssey.

Calypso’s Cave (L-ghar ta’ Calisso in Maltese) is a famous site on Gozo island appealing to both history fans and those looking for one of the absolute best viewpoints of Gozo’s famous red sand beach– the Ramla l-Ħamra Beach in Ramla Bay.

In this quick travel guide, I’ll give you a rundown of Calypso cave, including a brief history and some information on how to get here and what to expect once you arrive.

Also, at the end of this blog post, I’ll recommend another famous cave on the other end of Ramla Bay if you’re chasing even more stunning views!

About Calypso’s Cave on Gozo Island
Where is Calypso’s Cave
How to Get to Calypso’s Cave on Gozo Island
What to Expect at Calypso’s Cave
Is Gozo’s Calypso’s Cave Closed?
An Alternative Open Cave at Ramla Bay
Where to Stay on Gozo Island
More Gozo Island Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

Calypsos Cave Viewpoint of Ramla Bay

About Calypso's Cave on Gozo Island

Calypso's Cave gets its name from the fact that many people believe that it is the cave featured in Homer's famous Odyssey tale (book V). In this story, the Greek Hero, Odysseus was trapped in the cave by a nymph, Calypso for seven years as a "prisoner of love". Many believe that Gozo must have been the famous island of Ogygia, in the tale of Odysseys, where the protagonist lost his ship to the rock Ogiran following a big storm.

Odysseus was promised complete immortality if he did stay in this cave. However, he managed to escape the cave and return to his wife Penelope.

Interestingly, Gozo is not the only island in the Mediterranean Sea laying claims to this story. I also visited the island of Mljet in Croatia, which also contains a cave with this story.

However, what isn't disputed, is that this cave did play a role during the times of the Knights of Malta. In fact, just below this cave are the ruins of fortifications. The knights built these here during the mid-18th century to protect against the many invading forces and sea-ward attacks.

Whether you're a fan of history and mythology or not, Calypso's cave is undoubtedly one of the most stunning viewpoints on Gozo Island. From here, you'll get expansive views across one of the island's most famous beaches, the red sands of Ramla Bay.

Best Travel Insurance for Malta

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Best Gozo Tours & Activities

Blue Lagoon Tour - the best-rated Blue Lagoon tour from Gozo
Gozo Day Trip Jeep Tour from Malta - explore the island of Gozo on a small-group Jeep adventure tour from Malta
Gozo ATV Quad Bike Tour - self-ride tour of Gozo on an ATV!

More Top-Rated Tours on Gozo

Where is Calypso's Cave

Calypso's Cave is located on a grassy hillside near the village of Xagħra on Gozo Island's north coast. The hill rises above Ramla Beach (Gozo's most sought-after sandy beach) but travelers can best reach it via the steep lane wrapping behind the hill.

Travelers will find this just off the Triq Ta Ghaijn Hosna road leading to the red sands of Ramla Beach.

Below I've pinned the exact location of Calypso's cave to help you find it. Once you arrive, you'll find a small parking lot with signs and a short, paved walking track to the lookout above the cave.

How to Get to Calypso's Cave on Gozo Island

Looking for the easy option? Then, the easiest and funnest way to explore Calypso's Cave and other highlights on the island of Gozo is to join in on the famous Gozo Full-Day Jeep day trip.

This tour offers the opportunity to tick off some of the best attractions on the island, including:

Ġgantija Temples
Xlendi Bay
Dwerja Bay
- Former Azure Window
- Blue Hole
- Inland Sea
Citadel in Victoria
Comino Island and Blue Lagoon boat trip

Book a Gozo Day Tour From Malta

Arriving at the viewpoint

This epic Jeep tour offers the best bang for buck in terms of a day trip to Gozo. However, if you're already on the island, then I'd suggest either renting a car or hopping on the route 302 bus to the Ramla Bay stop and walking up the hill.

Parking lot near the cave viewpoint

The Ultimate Malta Travel Resource

Looking for more Malta travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

What to Expect at Calypso's Cave

The granite face of Calypso's Cave rises out of the grassy hillside with some small buildings located right beside it.

Once you arrive, you'll immediately notice that the entrance to the cave is blocked off. This is the result of large boulders collapsing following geological movements. Unfortunately, this means that the cave has a completely crumpled entrance, and authorities discourage exploration as it is quite dangerous. When I visited, there were some steel beams holding up the rock to prevent further erosion.

However, it is said that before the collapse, it was possible to explore the interior of Calypso's Cave. This apparently, is connected to the sea via a complex labyrinth of tunnels, which would have been awesome to explore!

With that said, in its current state, it's best to enjoy the site from afar. Instead, the viewing platform provides a great place to take in the magnificent views out to the open sea and over Gozo's spectacular northern coastline.

We spent a good hour here enjoying a snack and watching the waves roll in gently onto the red sands. Next, we decided to take some photos before heading over to some of the other highlights on the island.

Featured in: Best Comino, Gozo, & Malta Sunset Spots

Is Gozo's Calypso's Cave Closed?

Yes, unfortunately, the entrance to Calypso's Cave is closed as a result of geological movement causing huge stone boulders to collapse.

However, fans of history and Greek mythology will still appreciate this site from the adjacent viewing platform. If you're looking for the famous viewpoint cave over Ramla Bay (it's a different cave), then I'll reveal that exact location below.

An Alternative Open Cave at Ramla Bay

While Calypso's Cave has long held the limelight as the Ramla Bay Cave, recent tourism promotions and epic photos making the rounds on social media have revealed another beautiful limestone cave on the other end of this beach.

This is Tal-Mixta Cave, and while not so much of a hidden gem as it once was, a visit to this spectacular viewpoint is well worth the effort!

Where to Stay on Gozo Island

Due to its small size and well-connected network of buses and roads, choosing the ideal location to stay in Gozo is less crucial than on the main island of Malta.

Quaint Boutique Hotel - Nadur
Accommodation on Malta’s quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.
Viewpoint Boutique Living - Xlendi
This family-run boutique hotel dates back 300 years and is situated on a beautiful cliff overlooking the Xlendi Valley and the Mediterranean Sea. The location is ideal for couples looking to get away, with convenient access to the beach and just a short 2 km drive to the Citadella.
Kempinski Hotel - San Lawrenz
For travelers preferring modern, 5-star luxury, the Kempinski Hotel is your best bet. This amazing hotel is located in San Lawrenz, on a 30,000m² tropical oasis. An excellent choice for larger groups and families as there are self-catering apartment options as well!

More on Booking.com

More Gozo Island Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

I hope this quick travel guide has answered all your questions about visiting the famous and historical Calypso's Cave on Northern Gozo Island.

While you're here, make sure to take a look through some of my other travel guides to Malta. I bet you'll find a bunch of useful information and some epic hidden gems you would have otherwise missed!

The post Calypso’s Cave Gozo – Everything You Need to Know appeared first on We Seek Travel.

The Azure Window is Gone – Visit Wied il Mielah Arch on Gozo Instead

Olly Gaspar — Sun, 20 Nov 2022 17:00:00 +0000

Yes, the Malta Azure Window on Gozo is lost to the sea forever! However, there is another epic natural arch on the island called the Wied il-Mielaħ window. Find out everything you need to know about visiting in this hidden gem travel guide.

Planning your visit to the Maltese Islands but devastated about the collapse of the Azure Window?

Well, I have an alternative for you! Discover the epic Wied il Mielah arch, another stunning rock formation over the Mediterranean Sea on Gozo Island, Malta.

In this detailed guide, I’ll outline everything you need to know about both arches, including details on how to reach Wied il-Mielah, as well as recommending some alternative attractions in Dwejra Bay.

About the Former Azure Window in Malta
The Azure Window Collapse
Scuba Diving at the Remains of the Azure Window on Gozo
Alternative: Visit the Wied Il Mielah Window on Gozo
How to Get to the Wied Il Mielah Arch
- From Malta: Off-The-Beaten Path Quad Tour
- Already on Gozo? Directions to the Natural Arch
What to Expect at Wied Il Mielah
Rock Climbing on Wied Il Mielah
Where to Stay On Gozo
More Epic Adventures on Gozo and the Maltese Islands

About the Former Azure Window in Malta

The former Azure Window (Tieqa tad-Dwejra) was a natural wonder and flagship of the Gozitan touristic sites which once stood proud in the Mediterranean Sea on Gozo's west coast (Dwejra Bay).

This arch was incredibly beautiful and represented years of Maltese history as Malta's most famous landmark. It made the perfect subject for epic landscape photographs of Malta's unique limestone coast. In fact, its beauty was recognized worldwide as it made several appearances in TV shows and feature films. These included HBO's Game of Thrones series (The Khaleesi and Khal Drogo wedding scene), the finale of the 1981 Clash of the Titans epic, and the famous Count of Monte Cristo.

However, after years of unavoidable natural erosion from big waves and strong gale-force winds, this iconic natural phenomenon was lost to the sea.

Yes, it was a sad day for the Maltese and tourists alike. However, make sure to read on to reveal the next Azure Window - Wied il-Mielah!

Former 92-foot-tall arch.
Image Source: Times of Malta

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The Azure Window Collapse

According to the Times of Malta, the Azure Window collapsed into the Mediterranean Sea on the morning of March 8, 2017.

“There was a big raging sea beneath the window,” “Suddenly, the arch collapsed into the sea with a loud whoomph, throwing up a huge spray. By the time the spray had faded, the stack had gone too.” - Xaghra resident Roger Chessell, a witness of the collapse.

This happened early in the morning during a massive storm and very few witnesses were there to tell the tale.

Natural limestone arch of the Azure Window, Malta

Best Gozo Tours & Activities

Blue Lagoon Tour - the best-rated Blue Lagoon tour from Gozo
Gozo Day Trip Jeep Tour from Malta - explore the island of Gozo on a small-group Jeep adventure tour from Malta
Gozo ATV Quad Bike Tour - self-ride tour of Gozo on an ATV!

More Top-Rated Tours on Gozo

How Did the Natural Arch Collapse?

For roughly 5 years following the incident, the people of Malta were left wondering how this tragic event had occurred.

However, in 2022, Professor Joseph Caruana and John Wood published the results of a lengthy, 3-year investigation into the event. They revealed that the very same erosional weathering that formed the Azure Window was also what eventually led to its collapse.

They concluded in their report stating that the base of the main pillar had been eroding for quite some time during heavy storms. As a result, Malta's Azure Window was in imminent danger of collapsing for quite some time.

So, it was the unavoidable natural corrosion that slowly weathered away the Azure Window's structural resistance. Finally, the big raging sea and howling winds of March 8, 2017 was enough to finally send the window to the bottom of the sea.

Fortunately, it seems that the nearby Wied il Mielah window has a much thicker base and is more protected on the coast.

Is There an Azure Window Collapse Video Clip?

No, the tragic Azure Window collapse occurred during a big storm very early in the morning. There were very few witnesses and none were able to record a video of the collapse.

Are there Plans to Rebuild the Iconic Arch?

This might seem like a very strange question.

However, in fact, there are plans to rebuild the Azure Window.

The truth is, this amazing arch was the heart of the small island nation and meant quite a great deal to its people.

Now, the Heart of Malta project headed by Russian architect Svetozar Andreev is planning to rebuild the structure using reflective stainless steel. Below is a rendered image of what it may look like if the project goes ahead.

Reconstruction proposal using a polygonal architectural form. Image Source: UBM-Development

Scuba Diving at the Remains of the Azure Window on Gozo

While the Azure Window may be gone, there's still plenty of reason to visit Dwejra Bay, where it once stood.

Here, you'll discover other epic natural attractions like the Blue Hole, Fungus Rock, and the famous Inland Sea.

Scuba divers will especially like the Gozo Blue Hole, where you can swim through an epic underwater natural arch and around the bend to the rocky remains where the original limestone arch once stood proud.

Alternative: Visit the Wied Il Mielah Window on Gozo

Located less than 5 kilometers from the former Azure Window is perhaps Gozo's best-kept secret– as far as coastal rock formations go!

Written Wied il-Mielaħ in the native alphabet, or it-Tieqa ta' Wied il-Mielaħ in Maltese, this incredible limestone natural arch is located at the end of the valley with the same name, near the hamlet of Għarb.

This natural landmark, while admittedly not as spectacular as the original Azure Window, is still a very picturesque scene. You'll find it wrapped around a small bend on the coast, standing tall above the turquoise-blue, crystal-clear waters of the open sea.

The way down this valley is a little off-the-beaten path, but it's certainly worth the effort, especially if you are a rock climber or photographer!

How to Get to the Wied Il Mielah Arch

Below are the two best options for getting to the Wied il Mielah Arch on Gozo Island, Malta.

From Malta: Off-The-Beaten Path Quad Tour

For those staying at the popular tourist hubs of the main island, the easiest and most epic way to explore Gozo is on a Quad Bike day trip!

This tour includes a stop at the Wied Il Mielah Window, Wied il-Ghasri Bay, and the very epic sunset spot of Sanap Cliffs.

Additionally, the trip includes a private boat tour of the epic Comino Caves and the famous Blue Lagoon.

Book Online Now

Already on Gozo? Directions to the Natural Arch

If you're already on the island, then the best option is to simply rent a car or quad bike! There are a couple of rental offices on Gozo, but I recommend comparing prices on DiscoverCars before booking.

For those on Malta with their own rental car, you can also take the reliable Gozo Channel Ferry and drive from there.

You'll want to head to the pin below, following the scenic valley route past the famous Ta'Pinu chapel. Finally, you'll head down an unsealed road. Continue down this road, crossing a small bridge until you reach a large clearing where you can park your car.

The Wied il Mielah natural window arch is just a short walk to the right from here (facing the sea).

What to Expect at Wied Il Mielah

Once you arrive, you'll walk around from the clearing to a set of limestone steps leading to the base of the Wied il Mielah Window. As you'll notice, there is a stainless steel rail down these steps which is badly damaged– a testament to just how wild the seas off the coast of Gozo can get during the Winter!

On a calm day, however, these steps provide access to the sea, where confident scuba divers and free divers can explore the underwater segments of this arch.

We came here to do some rock climbing (more on this below). Afterward, we spent a couple of hours here waiting for a beautiful sunset to capture some images.

Unfortunately, after so many beautiful Maltese sunsets like the night at the Dingli Cliffs or at the Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs viewpoint, we didn't get what we came for.

However, we still enjoyed a great afternoon relaxing and unwinding beside this beautiful natural arch, with no other tourists in sight! We also managed to spot some ancient fossils embedded into the hard limestone rock, which must have come from an ancient time when this arch was underwater!

Rock Climbing on Wied Il Mielah

We organized an afternoon of climbing and abseiling with Gozo Adventures which was super fun! This site is famous in Malta and even within the greater European climbing community for awesome Deep-water solo routes and challenging overhangs crags on the arch itself.

Below are a couple of photos that we captured from our rock-climbing adventures at Wied il-Mielah!

Where to Stay On Gozo

Due to its small size and well-connected network of buses and roads, choosing the ideal location to stay in Gozo is less crucial than on the main island of Malta.

Quaint Boutique Hotel - Nadur
Accommodation on Malta’s quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.
Viewpoint Boutique Living - Xlendi
This family-run boutique hotel dates back 300 years and is situated on a beautiful cliff overlooking the Xlendi Valley and the Mediterranean Sea. The location is ideal for couples looking to get away, with convenient access to the beach and just a short 2 km drive to the Citadella.
Kempinski Hotel - San Lawrenz
For travelers preferring modern, 5-star luxury, the Kempinski Hotel is your best bet. This amazing hotel is located in San Lawrenz, on a 30,000m² tropical oasis. An excellent choice for larger groups and families as there are self-catering apartment options as well!

More on Booking.com

The Ultimate Malta Travel Resource

Looking for more Malta travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

More Epic Adventures on Gozo and the Maltese Islands

Did you enjoy this guide to the epic Wied il-Mielaħ window on Gozo Island? While the tragic loss of the Malta Azure Window is heartbreaking, there are many more epic natural rock formations and geological features to discover on the Maltese Islands.

Below is a useful list of more travel ideas for Malta based on my adventures in the archipelago. Heading to the beach? Make sure to read my guide to the best beaches in Malta!

The post The Azure Window is Gone – Visit Wied il Mielah Arch on Gozo Instead appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Ultimate Guide to the Inland Sea Gozo (Dwejra Bay, Malta)

Olly Gaspar — Sun, 20 Nov 2022 08:53:50 +0000

The Malta Inland Sea on Gozo is a magnificent natural saltwater lagoon and dive site on Gozo’s west coast. Find out everything you need to know about visiting, swimming, and diving at the Inland Sea in this useful travel guide.

The Inland Sea, also called Qawra is a scenic lagoon separated from the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea by a long tunnel rock formation. This amazing seawater lagoon and sea cave is great for swimming, scuba diving, or for photography!

In this guide, I’ll give you a useful rundown on the Inland Sea to help you plan your travels through the Maltese Islands.

About the Inland Sea on Gozo Island
Where is the Inland Sea?
How to Get to the Inland Sea in Malta
- Inland Sea on the Gozo Island Tour
- Visiting the Inland Sea Independently
What to Expect at the Inland Sea
- The Inland Sea Dive Site
Where to Stay On Gozo
More Malta Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

About the Inland Sea on Gozo Island

The Inland Sea gets its name from the large lagoon of seawater beneath the high cliffs of Dwejra Point. This shallow semi-circular lagoon is lined by a thin, pebble beach and is often dotted with small fishing boats laying anchor during rough seas.

Connecting the inland sea to the Mediterranean Sea is a long limestone tunnel (natural arch) running straight through the cliff face for over 80 meters. It is believed that this natural phenomenon was caused by an eroding faultline in the limestone cliffs.

Today, this tunnel is considered to be one of the best sea cave dive sites in Malta. Divers will swim through the arch, slowly descending until roughly 26 meters once they reach the open sea.

However, even if you're not a diver, there's good reason to visit. Swimming in the cave is permitted and many tourists and locals visit the Inland Sea to relax on the sheltered, pebble shores and to check out other unique geological rock formations in the area like the nearby Fungus Rock, Blue Hole, and remains of the former Azure Window.

It's also possible to take a boat trip through the tunnel, which I'll get into below.

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The Inland Sea from above

Best Gozo Tours & Activities

Blue Lagoon Tour - the best-rated Blue Lagoon tour from Gozo
Gozo Day Trip Jeep Tour from Malta - explore the island of Gozo on a small-group Jeep adventure tour from Malta
Gozo ATV Quad Bike Tour - self-ride tour of Gozo on an ATV!

More Top-Rated Tours on Gozo

Where is the Inland Sea?

The Inland Sea is located in Dwejra Bay, on Gozo's west coast (San Lawrenz). Below I've pinned the exact location to help you find it.

How to Get to the Inland Sea in Malta

Below are the two best options for getting to the Inland Sea from Malta or Gozo Island.

Inland Sea on the Gozo Island Tour

The most convenient way to explore the beautiful island of Gozo is to take the famous full-day jeep & boat tour from the main island of Malta.

This tour visits many iconic Gozitan sites, including Ramla Bay (Calypso's Cave), and the Dwejra Bay highlights like the Inland Sea (optional boat tour) and the Blue Hole– plus a scenic boat tour of the Blue Lagoon and Comino Caves.

Book on GetYourGuide

Visiting the Inland Sea Independently

The best way to get around Malta and explore all the epic attractions is to rent your own car. Those travelers basing themselves in the popular tourist hubs on the main island can easily rent a car there. I found that DiscoverCars is the best option for comparing dealerships and prices.

Once you've got yourself a set of wheels, you'll want to head over to the Gozo Channel Ferry, where you'll find scheduled crossings every 45 minutes.

There is a large Public Parking area just near the Inland Sea, and getting here from the main ferry terminal in Mġarr Harbor will take roughly 20 minutes.

Alternatively, it’s possible to reach this spot via the frequent bus service on the 311 line bus, stopping at the Dwejra stop.

The Ultimate Malta Travel Resource

Looking for more Malta travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

What to Expect at the Inland Sea

Once you arrive at the parking lot nearby the Gozitan west coast, you will need to walk up over the small hill to the north, passing the Blue Hole on your left. Once here, the Inland Sea is unmistakable.

On the shores, you'll be free to throw down a beach towel and enjoy the serenity of this beautiful place. The high cliffs and vertical walls wrap around the coast, forming a sheltered lagoon area, which is perfect on windy days in Malta.

We decided to take a small swim through the cave. Once we were inside, we noticed that there are many vertical fissures in the tunnel walls, both on the left and the right. These would be awesome to explore if we had our dive gear this day!

We also noticed that there were some boat tours running into the cave, which means you have to be careful when swimming or scuba diving in the Inland Sea. These boat tours cost just 4 euros and one of the local boat drivers will likely offer you a trip once you approach the lagoon.

Don't Miss: Best Beaches in Malta

The Inland Sea Dive Site

Of course, the main draw of this fascinating location is its appeal to scuba divers. In fact, the Inland Sea was apparently among one of the favorite dives of Jacques Cousteau! When we were on Gozo, we dove with St Andrews Divers Cove in nearby Xlendi Bay and definitely recommend them for dives in Dwejra Bay.

The maximum depth of this site is roughly 25 meters. At the start of the dive, it begins with a short surface swim to the entrance of the tunnel. From here, it's a short descent to roughly 6 meters and then a gradual descent further on to roughly 15 meters once you reach the pebble bottom of the sea cave.

There is plenty of marine life at the Inland Sea dive site, including cardinal fish, John Dory, parrot fish, colorful sponges, anemones, and if you're lucky, some tiny nudibranchs and fire worms! However, the main attraction of this dive site is the feeling of being inside a huge tunnel. There's something special about this, especially as you approach the exit to the sea at the end of the tunnel, where you'll experience stunning lighting effects!

Where to Stay On Gozo

Due to its small size and well-connected network of buses and roads, choosing the ideal location to stay in Gozo is less crucial than on the main island of Malta.

Quaint Boutique Hotel - Nadur
Accommodation on Malta’s quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.
Viewpoint Boutique Living - Xlendi
This family-run boutique hotel dates back 300 years and is situated on a beautiful cliff overlooking the Xlendi Valley and the Mediterranean Sea. The location is ideal for couples looking to get away, with convenient access to the beach and just a short 2 km drive to the Citadella.
Kempinski Hotel - San Lawrenz
For travelers preferring modern, 5-star luxury, the Kempinski Hotel is your best bet. This amazing hotel is located in San Lawrenz, on a 30,000m² tropical oasis. An excellent choice for larger groups and families as there are self-catering apartment options as well!

More on Booking.com

More Malta Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

I hope you've enjoyed this detailed guide to visiting the Inland Sea on Gozo Island, Malta.

While you're here, make sure to check out some of my other travel guides to the Maltese Islands below.

The post Ultimate Guide to the Inland Sea Gozo (Dwejra Bay, Malta) appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Blue Hole Malta (Gozo) – Complete Guide

Olly Gaspar — Sat, 19 Nov 2022 10:13:38 +0000

The Malta Blue Hole in Gozo is a magnificent natural rock formation and dive site on Gozo’s west coast. Find out everything you need to know about visiting, swimming, and diving at the Gozo Blue Hole in this in-depth guide.

The magical islands of Malta are well-renowned for their unique blue geological formations including the famous Blue Lagoon and Blue Grotto. Perhaps one of the most famous of these is Gozo’s iconic Blue Hole. Just off the shores of San Lawrenz, visitors can discover this large underwater hole, which results in a sudden drop into a wide, upright tube of crystal clear water.

Due to the beautiful surrounding coral gardens and iconic underwater archway leading into the open sea, this formation has also earned its fame as Malta’s most famous scuba dive site.

About the Gozo Blue Hole in Malta
Where is Malta’s Blue Hole?
How to Get to the Blue Hole on Gozo
Scuba Diving in the Malta Blue Hole
Is the Blue Hole Worth it If I’m not Diving?
Where to Stay on Gozo Island
FAQs About the Blue Hole in Malta
More Malta Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

About the Gozo Blue Hole in Malta

The Gozo Blue Hole is an upright underwater tunnel carved out over thousands of years by the powerful natural sea and wind forces. This site offers a sheltered entry directly from the shallow water shelf, passing some surrounding rocks and large boulders. There, you'll find the hole, which drops to a depth of 15 meters right from the shore.

Descending 6 meters of depth, there is a large archway acting as an underwater doorway to the open sea. Additionally, the bottom of the hole contains a large cave that is popular with scuba divers.

While not as deep as some of the other famous blue hole dive sites like in Egypt or Belize, Gozo's Blue Hole is arguably a better dive site since unlike the others, which are essentially bottomless, you can explore the Maltese Blue Hole caves and swim through the archway as well.

Best Travel Insurance for Malta

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Best Gozo Tours & Activities

Blue Lagoon Tour - the best-rated Blue Lagoon tour from Gozo
Gozo Day Trip Jeep Tour from Malta - explore the island of Gozo on a small-group Jeep adventure tour from Malta
Gozo ATV Quad Bike Tour - self-ride tour of Gozo on an ATV!

More Top-Rated Tours on Gozo

Where is Malta's Blue Hole?

Travelers will find the Malta Blue Hole on Gozo's west coast in an area known as Dwejra Bay in San Lawrenz. This is a famous spot as it sits directly beneath the former Azure Window, which has now fallen to the sea. Just nearby, however, there is also another natural formation called the Inland Sea, also great for diving!

Below I've pinned the exact location to help you find it.

How to Get to the Blue Hole on Gozo

The best way to get around Malta and explore all the epic attractions is to rent your own car. If you're staying in the popular tourist hubs on the main island, then I recommend you rent a car there. I found that DiscoverCars has the largest range and best deals across car dealerships in Malta.

Of course, you'll need to get your car across to the island of Gozo. This is easy via the affordable and reliable Gozo Channel Ferry, with scheduled crossings every 45 minutes or so.

There is a large Public Parking area just near the Blue Hole, and getting here from the main ferry terminal in Mġarr Harbor will take roughly 20 minutes.

Alternatively, it's possible to reach this site via the frequent bus service on the 311 line bus, stopping at the Dwejra stop.

If you're planning on scuba diving in the Blue Hole, then the shop will likely arrange transport for you.

A nearby cove in the hamlet of Dwejra

The Ultimate Malta Travel Resource

Looking for more Malta travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

Scuba Diving in the Malta Blue Hole

I was fortunate to dive in the Blue Hole with St Andrew's Divers Cove, who arranged all my gear and a guided dive with transport from the nearby Xlendi Bay.

After gearing up in the car park, we walked out onto the shallow-water shelf and hopped into the sheltered entry natural pool of the Blue Hole. Immediately looking down, we were ecstatic to see the bottom sharply through the crystal clear waters. Descending down, we dropped all the way to the bottom of the hole, where we explored all the way to the back of the cave (15 meters). With a sandy bottom, the cave featured only some small marine life including sea urchins and colorful coral tubeworms.

After this, we swam back out towards the beautiful archway, a window that leads to the open sea. Here, we continued to descend and explore the surrounding coral gardens and underwater rock debris from the former Azure Window. We managed to spot some small groupers and other Mediterranean fish species before ascending and entering through the archway again into the walls of the hole. The exit point for the dive was back at the surface of the gorgeous Blue Hole where we had descended.

Underwater arch at the Blue Hole dive site

Tip: the edges of the above-water rock have sharp edges, so try not to scrape your arms or legs on them.

Is the Blue Hole Worth it If I'm not Diving?

In my opinion, this natural underwater rock formation is best enjoyed below the surface! This means that you can also enjoy it if you are snorkeling or freediving.

However, due to the easy accessibility, I believe that everybody should go and check out the Blue Hole if you're planning to explore other attractions on Gozo's west coast, including the nearby inland sea.

In saying that, the Blue Hole is quite a spectacular site from above the water too! I highly recommend walking up the rocky coastal cliffs adjacent to the hole and admiring it from a birds-eye perspective. The Gozo Blue Hole somewhat resembles an eye from above, a little like Croatia's famous Eye of the Earth. The surrounding scenery of small canyons, large boulders, and sharp rocks makes it a great place for photography as well.

Where to Stay on Gozo Island

Due to its small size and well-connected network of buses and roads, choosing the ideal location to stay in Gozo is less crucial than on the main island of Malta.

Quaint Boutique Hotel - Nadur
Accommodation on Malta’s quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.
Viewpoint Boutique Living - Xlendi
This family-run boutique hotel dates back 300 years and is situated on a beautiful cliff overlooking the Xlendi Valley and the Mediterranean Sea. The location is ideal for couples looking to get away, with convenient access to the beach and just a short 2 km drive to the Citadella.
Kempinski Hotel - San Lawrenz
For travelers preferring modern, 5-star luxury, the Kempinski Hotel is your best bet. This amazing hotel is located in San Lawrenz, on a 30,000m² tropical oasis. An excellent choice for larger groups and families as there are self-catering apartment options as well!

More on Booking.com

FAQs About the Blue Hole in Malta

How was the Blue Hole formed?

The Blue Hole is a natural feature formed by centuries of wave power, and years of wind energy. As wave surge and current pushes through the archway, it funnels up the upright shaft, slowly weathering through the softer rock to form this amazing natural phenomenon.

Is the Blue Hole worth it?

The Blue Hole in Malta is certainly worth exploring, especially if you are a scuba diver as this is one of the most beautiful dive sites of the Maltese Islands.

How deep is the Blue Hole?

The Blue Hole has an official depth of 15 meters but some sources claim 16 meters, likely due to tidal fluctuations.

Is this a dangerous dive site?

No, this is an entry-level dive site suitable for beginner divers and Open Water students. The hole and archway are both very large and the depths are quite shallow.

When is the best time to dive?

The best time to dive in the Maltese Islands is during the summertime, from June to September. This period has calmer seas, warmer sea temperatures, and less wind.

Is the Blue Hole the best dive site in Malta?

While it is undoubtedly spectacular, I believe that there are much better sites in Malta, including the El Faroud Oil Tanker and the accessible P31 Wreck.

More Malta Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

I hope that you've found this detailed guide to Malta's Blue Hole helpful in planning your adventures on the archipelago.

Check out the list below for more inspiration and travel guides to this beautiful slice of the Mediterranean.

The post Blue Hole Malta (Gozo) – Complete Guide appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Exploring Tal Mixta Cave Gozo at Ramla Bay – Malta

Olly Gaspar — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 03:15:56 +0000

A complete and up-to-date travel guide featuring everything you need to know about visiting Tal Mixta Cave Gozo.

While often confused with the very popular Calypso Cave, Tal-Mixta is the iconic seaside cliff cave overlooking Ramla Bay (Ramla l-Hamra) on the island of Gozo, Malta.

While often seen on billboards and tourism advertisements, the truth is that Tal Mixta is still one of Gozo’s hidden gems, and a spot you’ll want to head up to for amazing sunset views over the iconic red sands of Ramla Beach’s red sands.

In this travel guide, I’ll detail everything you need to know about Tal Mixta Cave, and include photos and a short summary of my experience in hopes of inspiring your travels to this beautiful island in the Mediterranean Sea!

Where is Tal Mixta Cave?
How to Get to Tal Mixta Cave
- Drive to the Cave Parking Lot
- Hiking to Mixta Cave from Ramla Beach
Tal Mixta Cave & Ramla Beach Viewpoint
Where to Stay On Gozo, Malta
More Malta Travel & Adventure Inspiration

Best Gozo Tours & Activities

Blue Lagoon Tour - the best-rated Blue Lagoon tour from Gozo
Gozo Day Trip Jeep Tour from Malta - explore the island of Gozo on a small-group Jeep adventure tour from Malta
Gozo ATV Quad Bike Tour - self-ride tour of Gozo on an ATV!

More Top-Rated Tours on Gozo

Where is Tal Mixta Cave?

Tal-Mixta Cave (L Ghar Tal Mixta in Maltese) is a cliffside cave located high up on the headland directly east of the idyllic bay of Ramla l-Hamra on the outskirts of Nadur Village on the eastern side of Gozo Island.

Below I've pinned the exact location for the cave to help you find it. However, if you continue reading below, I'll outline the two best ways to reach the cave.

How to Get to Tal Mixta Cave

There are two ways to get to Tal Mixta Cave, both are quite easy and require little effort.

Drive to the Cave Parking Lot

The first is to drive your car or ATV to the headland just above Ramla Bay (Rdum il-Kbir). You can follow the road called Triq l-Għassa tal-Maħraġ, all the way down to the end. You'll see a small sign indicating the area to park your car.

From here, it's a very short walk to the back entrance of Tal Mixta Cave, following a short descending staircase into the main cavern.

Travel tip: the best way to travel and explore the Maltese Islands is by renting your own car! While you can pick up a car in Gozo, I highly recommend checking DiscoverCars for listings at the Malta international airport. The prices here are usually much cheaper and offer more variety of vehicle options.

Hiking to Mixta Cave from Ramla Beach

Alternatively, travelers looking to visit Mixta cave from the beach will find another longer route running up the cliff on the east side of the bay. The walk only takes about 10 minutes but is a little steep in some sections, following an unsealed dirt track and finally winding up around some rough stones on the side of the cave.

Here is the second of the two small openings to get into this secluded cave.

You'll need to bend over to get inside from this small rocky entrance.

Tal Mixta Cave & Ramla Beach Viewpoint

As you enter Tal Mixta Cave, you'll immediately be drawn to the large overhanging rock opening, offering an amazing vantage point over Ramla Bay and the open sea of the northern coast.

This is a popular site to snap some holiday photos of one of Malta's best beaches, especially during sunset! The roof is at least 5 meters tall and the main cavern is very wide, with plenty of room for people to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Also, turning around, you'll likely notice some small fireplaces, which seem to be made by some Gozitan locals coming here to hang out.

Featured in: Malta, Gozo & Comino Sunset Viewpoints

#1 Rated Tour on Gozo Island

Want to see all the incredible highlights on Gozo in a single, epic day of exploring in a top-off Jeep? Click the link below to find out why this is Gozo's number 1 rated day tour.

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Tip: While also worth checking out, tourists often confuse Mixta Cave with the popular Calypso Cave. Tal Mixta is located on the opposite side of the iconic Calypso Cave and is a separate viewpoint.

Secluded CAVE VIEWPOINT - SIDE ACCESS

While Tal Mixta cave is still considered a local hidden gem, it has gained popularity with travelers of late. If you find the cave is a little crowded, or you'd prefer to get a more private viewpoint, head out through the small rock entrance on the right side of the cave. Here, you can turn around and climb up some large rocks to another, much smaller cave viewpoint.

The Ultimate Malta Travel Resource

Looking for more Malta travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

Short History of Mixta Cave on Gozo

Not only is this awesome cave a great viewpoint, but it's also got a unique and interesting history.

Pre-History

Apparently, the word mixta comes from the Maltese name mxett, which represents shelter during cold winters. In fact, the cave is said to be one of the last intact troglodytic habitats on Gozo. These troglodytic people were a prehistoric race dating back to at least 2,000 BCE and lived in caves very similar to this one on the Maltese archipelago. This assumption stems from archeological findings of bronze age pottery inside the cave.

Don't Miss: Gozo Inland Sea in Dwejra Bay

Time of the Knights of Malta

Fast-forwarding a few thousand years, Tal Mixta cave turns up in the history books when invading pirate vessels landed on Gozo in search of supplies. These pirates orchestrated an attack via Ramla Bay and resulted in a Gozitan family being taken captive.

Illustrating the need for fortification in Ramla Bay, the then ruling Knights of Saint John fortified Tal-Mixta Cave with large stones and put cannons facing the open sea. Additionally, this hidden cave proved to be a useful vantage point for the Knights of St. John, as they could spot invading armies while an entrenchment wall made the cavern entrance invisible from the open Meditteranean Sea.

Where to Stay On Gozo, Malta

Due to its small size and well-connected network of buses and roads, choosing the ideal location to stay in Gozo is less crucial than on the main island of Malta.

Quaint Boutique Hotel - Nadur
Accommodation on Malta’s quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.
Viewpoint Boutique Living - Xlendi
This family-run boutique hotel dates back 300 years and is situated on a beautiful cliff overlooking the Xlendi Valley and the Mediterranean Sea. The location is ideal for couples looking to get away, with convenient access to the beach and just a short 2 km drive to the Citadella.
Kempinski Hotel - San Lawrenz
For travelers preferring modern, 5-star luxury, the Kempinski Hotel is your best bet. This amazing hotel is located in San Lawrenz, on a 30,000m² tropical oasis. An excellent choice for larger groups and families as there are self-catering apartment options as well!

More on Booking.com

More Malta Travel & Adventure Inspiration

I hope that you've enjoyed this short but useful travel guide to visiting Tal Mixta Cave on Gozo Island!

Take a pick below for more Malta travel inspiration and adventure ideas!

The post Exploring Tal Mixta Cave Gozo at Ramla Bay – Malta appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs Sunset Viewpoint in Gozo, Malta

Olly Gaspar — Thu, 04 Aug 2022 04:13:00 +0000

Discover a unique hidden gem on Gozo Island, the Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs sunset viewpoint. Experience some of Gozo’s most dramatic cliffs at this epic sunset spot!

Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs sunset viewpoint is one of the best places to wind down and watch the setting sun mark the end of another amazing day on Gozo Island.

Located on Gozo’s remote southern shores, this incredible cliff rises sharply from the pristine Mediterranean Sea, offering the perfect vantage point to watch the Maltese sun set beyond the horizon.

In this travel guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about visiting Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs, including how to get here, what to expect, as well as some great photos to inspire your visit.

Where are the Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs?
How to Get to the Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs Viewpoint
Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs Gozo – What to Expect
- Hiking in Southern Gozo
where to stay in Gozo
More Malta Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

Where are the Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs?

Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs are located on the southern tip of Gozo Island in Malta near the village of Sannat. This cliff line is a long stretch of vertical limestone, stretching from the nearby headland of Mġarr-ix Xini Bay to the Sanap Cliffs (another fantastic sunset viewpoint) near Xlendi in Munxar.

The best place to sit and watch the sunset at the Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs is at a large, flat elevated area just southeast of the cliffs. Below I'll detail exactly how to get there and include some photos from this location.

GPS coordinates of the free parking lot: 36°01'01.7"N 14°15'14.0"E (road near the upscale Hotel Ta' Cenc & Spa)

#1 Rated Tour on Gozo Island

Want to see all the incredible highlights on Gozo in a single, epic day of exploring in a top-off Jeep? Click the link below to find out why this is Gozo's number 1 rated day tour.

Book Online

Malta Budget Travel Tip: By far, the best way to explore the Maltese archipelago is to rent a car and island hop using the cheap car ferry. However, during the peak season (summer months), cars can sell out quickly. I highly recommend comparing prices across the islands using DiscoverCars (best car rental comparison site in Malta).

How to Get to the Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs Viewpoint

Due to the remote location, the best way to get to this viewpoint is to drive to the nearby parking lot pinned above. As far as I'm aware, there aren't any public transport routes stopping nearby, so it's best to rent a car or ATV if you wish to make it here.

From here, it's only a short 600-meter walk along an unsealed dirt track to the cliff line. These trails are flat but feature beautiful scenery of wildflowers and short shrubs.

Getting lost is almost impossible here since there isn't just one official Ta' Ċenċ viewpoint. So, take any of the dirt roads leading from the small parking area toward the sea and you'll find many private viewpoints overlooking the cliffs.

From the road to the carpark, there is an excellent vantage point of the Rotunda St. John Baptist Church.

Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs Gozo - What to Expect

Upon arriving at the viewpoint, you'll get a sweeping view of the Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs. These Limestone cliffs are a 20-hectare linear strip curving its way around Gozo's southern shores. Depending on the time of the year, you'll either get to watch the sun slip beyond the Mediterranean Sea on the horizon or slowly set behind the cliffs.

The height at the tallest point on this cliff is roughly 120 meters above the sea. So, you can expect epic views and great photos of these massive walls.

We sat at this viewpoint all alone for roughly an hour watching the magical sunset. Below you'll see some photos we took from this amazing sunset viewpoint on the island of Gozo.

Remember, travelers need to be aware that there are no safety rails here. Remember that beyond the edge of the cliff is a steep, vertical drop of almost 120 meters above sea level. Use common sense!

Featured in: Best Sunset Viewpoints in Malta & Gozo

Sunset view at the Ta' Cenc cliffs.

Hiking in Southern Gozo

If you arrive early, I suggest following the dirt roads down to the remote southern headland called Ras in-Newwiela. These trails follow the cliffs through mostly uninhabited rural land with more excellent vantage points.

Ras in-Newwiela is the southernmost point in Gozo, offering uninterrupted, 360-degree views of the southern coast. Additionally, you'll also get great views of Comino Island and Malta just to the east.

Furthermore, on the way down, there are a few more great viewpoints of the Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs.

Don't Miss: Anchor Bay Sunset Viewpoint (Popeye Village)

where to stay in Gozo

Due to its small size and well-connected network of buses and roads, choosing the ideal location to stay in Gozo is less crucial than on the main island of Malta.

Quaint Boutique Hotel - Nadur
Accommodation on Malta’s quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.
Viewpoint Boutique Living - Xlendi
This family-run boutique hotel dates back 300 years and is situated on a beautiful cliff overlooking the Xlendi Valley and the Mediterranean Sea. The location is ideal for couples looking to get away, with convenient access to the beach and just a short 2 km drive to the Citadella.
Kempinski Hotel - San Lawrenz
For travelers preferring modern, 5-star luxury, the Kempinski Hotel is your best bet. This amazing hotel is located in San Lawrenz, on a 30,000m² tropical oasis. An excellent choice for larger groups and families as there are self-catering apartment options as well!

More on Booking.com

The Ultimate Malta Travel Resource

Looking for more Malta travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

More Malta Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

I hope this guide has inspired your visit to the incredible Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs sunset viewpoint on Gozo Island, Malta.

Click one of the links below for more Maltese Islands travel blogs and adventure ideas!

The post Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs Sunset Viewpoint in Gozo, Malta appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Sanap Cliffs Sunset Viewpoint, Gozo Island Malta

Olly Gaspar — Thu, 04 Aug 2022 01:12:00 +0000

A useful travel guide to the Sanap Cliffs sunset viewpoint on the island of Gozo, Malta.

Looking for an excellent coastal viewpoint to watch the sunset on the island of Gozo? I’ve got you covered.

In this guide, I’ll reveal to you one of the best local lookout spots on Gozo, the incredible Sanap Cliffs sunset viewpoint, located on the southern end of the island.

I’ll give you a brief outline of how to get here, what to expect once you arrive, and include some photos that I snapped during my visit.

Where is the Sanap Cliffs Sunset Viewpoint?
How to get to the Sanap Cliffs
Sanap Cliffs Sunset Viewpoint – What to Expect
Where to Stay on Gozo Island
More Malta Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

Where is the Sanap Cliffs Sunset Viewpoint?

The Sanap Cliffs are often referred to as the Ta' Ċenċ Cliffs, a long stretch of high cliff line dominating the southern coastline of Malta.

However, the particular viewpoint I'm speaking of is called Sanap Cliffs, and is located just west of the popular Ta' Ċenċ cliff viewpoint near the village of Munxar in southern Gozo Island, Malta.

Google Maps Pin: "Sanap Cliffs Sunset"

If you're planning to visit this sunset spot independently, I recommend following the exact instructions below, as it can prove difficult to find.

#1 Rated Tour on Gozo Island

Want to see all the incredible highlights on Gozo in a single, epic day of exploring in a top-off Jeep? Click the link below to find out why this is Gozo's number 1 rated day tour.

Book Online

How to get to the Sanap Cliffs

There are two ways to get to the Sanap Cliffs viewpoint on Gozo.

Firstly, for those with a car, simply drive to a slim parking area at the end of a narrow road marked above. From here, you'll walk the approximately 300-meter sealed track to the lookout. The parking area marks the end of the road, where you will find a Private Property sign (GPS: 36°01'18.7"N 14°13'37.7"E).

During the early evening, this area is usually full of cars since many locals visit this spot regularly. Due to this, it can be difficult to find a spot due to the lack of space. However, it is also possible to park a little further back, just before making the turn onto the narrow section.

Alternatively, for those staying near Xlendi Bay, it is possible to walk approximately 2 kilometers (30 minutes walk) from the bay to the viewpoint. Simply head to the Xlendi Tower on the headland and follow the coastal track southeast until you come to the Sanap Cliffs viewpoint.

Cliffs near the parking area

Sanap Cliffs Sunset Viewpoint - What to Expect

The Sanap Cliffs are approximately 130-meter tall limestone cliffs plunging vertically into the deep Mediterranean Sea.

I recommend the Sanap Cliffs viewpoint since it is one of the highest points on this section of the coast. As a result, the dramatic landscape rewards you with amazing views of the sun setting either into the sea or just behind the cliffs in the distance.

Walking out and taking a look back into Gozo's interior, you'll also spot the ever-present Rabat, with its imposing Citadella standing proud on the island's nucleus.

We spent about an hour at this viewpoint, watching the sunset and enjoying the warm summer sun on beautiful Gozo.

Featured in: Best Sunset Viewpoints in Malta & Gozo

The Ultimate Malta Travel Resource

Looking for more Malta travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.

Where to Stay on Gozo Island

Due to its small size and well-connected network of buses and roads, choosing the ideal location to stay in Gozo is less crucial than on the main island of Malta.

Quaint Boutique Hotel - Nadur
Accommodation on Malta’s quieter sister island should reflect its more peaceful and traditional ambiance. This beautifully renovated boutique hotel is situated directly beside the Nadur Parish Church, with spacious balcony terraces looking over the town square.
Viewpoint Boutique Living - Xlendi
This family-run boutique hotel dates back 300 years and is situated on a beautiful cliff overlooking the Xlendi Valley and the Mediterranean Sea. The location is ideal for couples looking to get away, with convenient access to the beach and just a short 2 km drive to the Citadella.
Kempinski Hotel - San Lawrenz
For travelers preferring modern, 5-star luxury, the Kempinski Hotel is your best bet. This amazing hotel is located in San Lawrenz, on a 30,000m² tropical oasis. An excellent choice for larger groups and families as there are self-catering apartment options as well!

More on Booking.com

More Malta Travel Guides & Adventure Inspiration

That's a wrap for this quick guide to the beautiful Sanap Cliffs sunset viewpoint on the island of Gozo, Malta.

Before you leave, have a read of some of my other useful travel guides to the Maltese Islands below.

The post Sanap Cliffs Sunset Viewpoint, Gozo Island Malta appeared first on We Seek Travel.