If you’re like us, you might not know that Malta isn’t just a single island but an archipelago, with three inhabited islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. Malta is the largest and most developed, while Comino has only one small hotel.
Gozo isn’t centrally located, but it strikes a balance between bustling Malta and the quiet Comino. It offers enough amenities to keep you busy for a weekend, while still being peaceful.
From our apartment in Sliema, Malta, we took local bus 222 to the Cirkewwa ferry terminal. After about an hour and a half, we reached the terminal and waited to board the ferry. The ferry ride to Gozo took only 25 minutes, and we arrived at Mgarr. It was free to go to Gozo, but you need to pay €4.65 ($5.25) on the way back.
During our three-night stay on Gozo, we explored the island by foot, bicycle, kayak, and bus. Our first stop was the Quaint Boutique Hotel in Xewkija, which cost about €70 ($79) per night. This village has a population of 3,300 and features the notable Church of Saint John The Baptist, also known as The Rotunda.
Most buildings in Malta are made from Maltese limestone, either globerigina (soft and flaky) or coralline (firmer and used for important structures). The sandstone color of the architecture is characteristic, and The Rotunda is no exception.
After arriving in the early afternoon and settling into our room, we were eager to explore. We rented mountain bikes from On Two Wheels, who delivered the bikes to our hotel.
Victoria is the capital city of Gozo, and its Citadel has been a center of activity since the Neolithic ages. First fortified during the Bronze Age, it was our primary destination, so we set off on a bike ride that was challenging not because of the terrain but because we were out of shape from Italian food and little exercise.
Cycling through narrow lanes and flat farmland, we took a break and met a kind elderly woman who offered us water on a hot day. This kind of friendly encounter is common in Gozo, where people often waved and greeted us.
Victoria’s Citadel sits high on a hill, and upon entering, we were greeted by the Baroque-styled Cathedral of the Assumption. While the Cathedral was impressive, our highlight was walking along the fort walls—just be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat, as there’s little shade.
Needing a break from the sun, we visited Ta’ Rikardu, a traditional Gozitan restaurant. The owner serves food and wine from his farm and vineyard. We enjoyed Ġbejniet, a traditional cheese, goat cheese-stuffed ravioli, and Maltese bread.
After lunch, we explored more of the Citadel and its narrow alleyways with traditional balconies. We also visited the street markets and St. George’s Basilica, built from limestone between 1672 and 1678. The Basilica’s interior was stunning with colorful frescos, stained glass windows, and gold and marble stucco.
After a day of cycling, we returned to Xewkija. Our first day on Gozo was fantastic, and we were excited for more adventures, including a 10 km hike and 14 km of kayaking! Stay tuned to hear more.
