Rising quietly from the Mediterranean just north of Malta, Gozo is an island where time slows, landscapes open wide, and history is never far from view. Smaller and greener than its sister island, Gozo offers a compelling blend of prehistoric temples, dramatic coastal cliffs, rural walking trails, and hidden coves best appreciated both on foot and by sea.
For travellers seeking depth as well as beauty, walking through Gozo is like turning the pages of a living history book, one written in limestone and shaped by centuries of Mediterranean influence.
Ancient Beginnings: Ġgantija Temples
No exploration of Gozo’s heritage is complete without visiting the Ġgantija Temples in Xagħra. Dating to approximately 3600–3200 BC, these UNESCO World Heritage–listed temples are among the oldest free-standing stone structures in the world, older than both the Egyptian pyramids and Stonehenge.
Constructed from massive limestone blocks, some weighing over 50 tonnes, the temples demonstrate remarkable engineering skill for their time. Archaeologists believe the site was used for ritual purposes, possibly linked to fertility practices. The name “Ġgantija” derives from the Maltese word for “giant,” reflecting local folklore that the temples were built by a giantess.
Surrounded by open countryside and traditional dry-stone walls, the site offers a powerful introduction to Gozo’s deep historical roots.
Victoria and the Citadel
At the geographical heart of the island lies Victoria (also known as Rabat), crowned by the fortified Cittadella. Archaeological evidence suggests the hill has been fortified since at least the Bronze Age and was later developed by the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and the Knights of St. John.
Today, visitors can walk along the restored ramparts for panoramic views across Gozo’s countryside and coastline. Inside the walls are narrow streets, small museums, and the Cathedral of the Assumption, rebuilt after the 1693 earthquake that affected much of Malta.
Arriving early or near sunset offers the most atmospheric experience, as the limestone walls take on a warm golden glow.
Coastal Trails and Geological Wonders
Gozo’s coastline is one of its greatest assets, shaped by wind and sea into cliffs, coves, and rock formations that reward patient exploration.
The area around Dwejra Bay on the island’s western coast is particularly striking. Once home to the famous Azure Window, which collapsed naturally during a storm in 2017, Dwejra remains geologically significant. Visitors can explore the Inland Sea lagoon and observe Fungus Rock, a protected islet historically valued for its medicinal plants.
Elsewhere, stretches such as the Ta’ Ċenċ cliffs offer elevated walking routes with uninterrupted Mediterranean views. Trails vary in difficulty but are generally accessible with sturdy footwear and water, particularly in warmer months.
For walkers, these routes provide a balance of solitude, sea air, and expansive scenery.
Ramla Bay and Mythology
With its distinctive red-golden sand, Ramla Bay is one of Gozo’s most recognisable natural landmarks. The wide bay is backed by fertile valleys and Roman-era remains, including the ruins of a Roman villa discovered nearby.
Overlooking the beach is a cave traditionally associated with Calypso from Homer’s Odyssey. While the literary connection is rooted in legend rather than confirmed history, the viewpoint above Ramla Bay offers sweeping coastal vistas that make the short uphill walk worthwhile.
The combination of history, myth, and natural beauty makes Ramla Bay a rewarding stop on any walking itinerary.
Experiencing Gozo from the Water
While exploring on foot reveals Gozo’s detail and texture, viewing the island from the sea offers a complementary perspective. Many visitors choose a Malta boat trip to Gozo as part of a wider island-hopping experience, often combining it with a Gozo Comino and Blue Lagoon cruise to explore the surrounding archipelago.
Approaching Gozo by boat highlights sea caves, limestone cliffs, and remote inlets that are inaccessible by land. Those researching the best Malta boat tours will find options ranging from larger shared excursions to more intimate private boat trips. Malta travellers increasingly prefer these for flexibility and privacy.
A relaxed boat trip to Gozo allows time to swim in secluded bays and explore coastal formations at a gentler pace. Some smaller operators, such as GOZOblu Private Boat Tours, focus on tailored journeys that prioritise local knowledge and unhurried exploration rather than fixed group schedules.
Finding Quieter Shores Along the Way
Many of Gozo’s most rewarding coastal moments lie away from the main bays and popular swimming spots. Walkers following rural paths or cliffside trails will often stumble upon small, peaceful beaches and inlets that feel almost undiscovered, especially outside peak summer months.
For travellers interested in seeking out these quieter shores, GOZOblu has published a thoughtfully curated guide, “8 Secret Best Beaches in Malta & Gozo for Peaceful Escapes.” Drawing on local knowledge and years of exploring the islands by sea, the guide highlights lesser-known beaches and coves that pair particularly well with slow travel and coastal walking itineraries.
Several of the locations featured are best accessed on foot, by boat, or through a combination of both, making the guide a useful companion for visitors who want to balance walking trails with secluded swimming stops. You can explore the full guide here:
Practical Tips for Walking Gozo
- Getting there: Regular ferries operate between Ċirkewwa (Malta) and Mġarr Harbour (Gozo). Alternatively, travellers may opt for organised sea excursions.
- Best time to visit: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) offer comfortable temperatures for walking.
- What to bring: Sun protection, sturdy footwear, and water are essential, particularly on exposed coastal trails.
- Pace yourself: Distances are short, but Gozo is best enjoyed slowly.
A Small Island with Deep Roots
Gozo does not compete with grand capitals or sprawling cities. Instead, it invites visitors to look closer at prehistoric stonework, fortified skylines, cliff-edge paths, and clear Mediterranean waters.
Whether arriving via one of the best Malta boat tours, enjoying a Gozo, Comino, and Blue Lagoon cruise, or simply setting out on foot from a quiet village square, Gozo rewards curiosity.
Walking here is more than sightseeing. It is a journey through layers of history, shaped by nature, sustained by tradition, and best experienced at a thoughtful pace.
Photo by Luke Tanis on Unsplash
