5 Natural Beauty Spots to explore in Gozo
Gozo is famed for its impressive natural beauty. Calypso’s isle, although small, boasts many natural wonders to explore. This means that those looking to enjoy the natural beauty on land after a day of exploring the islands underwater landscape (see the amazing dive sites here) will have no shortage of places to visit. Here at Blue Waters we will not only guide you underwater, but help you in any way we can to make the most of your time on the island.
Here are 5 of the most beautiful natural landscapes one can find in Gozo.
Dwejra
Dwejra, on the west coast of the island, is home to some of the most unique and impressive natural formations in the Mediterranean. The first thing that comes to mind when Dwejra is mentioned are the world famous dive sites at the Blue Hole and Inland Sea. However, it is certainly worth taking the time to explore the breathtaking landscape the Dwejra Bay has to offer.
The Inland Sea is still extremely impressive above the surface, with towering cliffs encasing the calm, shallow ‘lake’ within. It is also well worth the short boat trip offered by the locals. For only €5 you will take a small boat out through the famous tunnel to explore the outer cliffs and caves that are imbedded within them.
The Blue Hole, Gozo’s most famous dive site, is also beautiful from above. By walking along the Cliffside you can have an incredible view of the coast, as well as a bird’s eye view of the crystal clear waters of the Blue Hole itself. There are worse places to go for a swim too!
To the left as you look along the coast you will also see Fungus rock, also known as Generals rock.
This famous island was believed to be home to a fungus specific to the rock, which was heavily guarded and used by the knights of Malta, rulers of the island at the time. In fact, it is not endemic to the rock, and also not a fungus. This makes the punishment of 3 years oarsmanship in the galleys seem a little harsh, with hindsight. Still, it is a truly stunning sight on visiting Dwejra.
Wied il-Mielaħ
This spectacular natural archway sits on the northwest corner of the island, nestled between the salt pans of the north coast and Dwejra bay.
This natural marvel was previously known as the ‘other azure window’, but since the collapse of the Azure Window in 2017 it is now enjoying the newfound status as the most impressive sea arch in Gozo. The valley which takes you down to the archway, and the sea, is often filled with gorgeous Maltese flora. Particularly in the springtime the area is peppered with the bright yellow hue of Cape Sorrel.
As well as being the perfect place to enjoy the tranquil beauty that Mother Nature has sculpted here, the area is popular with climbers and divers.
If the sea is calm the area is blissful and serene. However, if the sea is rough then you can really feel the strength and power of the water, making for a contrasting but still beautiful experience.
Wied l-Għasri
Wied l-Għasri is a narrow valley which winds its way out to sea on the western part of Gozo’s north coast. It is a beautiful spot, perfect for a walk, bike ride, or just to sit and relax at the edge of the water on the narrow rocky ‘beach’.
The valley itself starts inland, beginning by winding its way through the quaint village of Għasri. It then passed by Zebbug before deepening and heading towards the sea. The high, gorge like cliffs which run either side of the river shaped crystal clear water are impressive when seen from above. However, it is definitely worth to make the journey down into the valley. The effort of walking the 100 or so weather worn stone steps down to the mouth of the valley is soon rewarded when you are greeted by the view. Seeing the walls of the gorge working their way out to sea in this snake like shape, with crystal clear water inviting you in is breathtaking. Prickly pear and various Maltese floras also line the walls either side of you, adding colour to the stone.
It is a magical place. Even if the walk back up is a little tough!
The Salt Pans on Gozo’s North Coast, near Xwejni Bay
The Xwejni Salt Pans are not just a beautiful landmark, but transport visitors back in time.
Salt production in Gozo through the simple method of evaporation, using just the sun and the sea, dates back to Phoenician and Roman times.
Salt is one of the oldest ways humans have flavoured and preserved food. In ancient time the mineral was so important that it was even used as currency, known as ‘white gold’.
Nowadays it is nourishing to see the Xwejni salt pans, and the local people that still work them, sticking to working in the old way.
The simple, symmetrical manmade structures of the salt pans, combined with the warm golden hues of the limestone cliffs that line the coast, make for a unique, striking image.
A walk along this part of the coast is a must if visiting Gozo. Also be sure to check out the artisanal salt shop which is etched into the hillside, run by the Cini family as it has been since the 1860s.
Also the neighbouring Xwejni bay is the perfect place for refreshment. The Crabshell kiosk on the beach create a relaxed, cool atmosphere, serve great food and drinks, and visitors can enjoy live music on certain nights of the week.
Comino & The Blue Lagoon
A trip to Gozo would not be complete without visiting the smallest island of the Maltese archipelago, Comino.
Measuring only 3.5 square kilometres, this tiny island is a haven for those looking to enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean or explore the uninhabited island on foot.
It may be small, but there are numerous famous beauty spots to be found. Most famous of all is the Blue Lagoon. The patch of sea enclosed by Comino and the even smaller Cominotto has a shallow seabed of bright white sand. This gives the water an incredible colour, and is a great place for swimmers and those visiting by boat in the warmer parts of the year.
The neighbouring Crystal lagoon also provides shelter, meaning the water stays calm and tranquil most of the time, creating ideal conditions for swimmers, snorkelers and divers alike.
On top of that, it is worth to check out Santa Marija bay and the caves just around the corner.
Comino has been used as a place of relaxation, fun and enjoyment dating back to the 1500’s, when it was used as a hunting ground for the knights. On visiting today, you will surely enjoy a little island escape.
In the summer the island can feel quite busy, particularly on weekends, so if you would like to enjoy some serenity then an early start on a weekday makes sense during the summer. Thos visiting the island ‘off-season’ can enjoy the place more or less to themselves.
With all this natural beauty and much more to explore we can assure you that your time on the surface after a day diving will be as nourishing and beautiful as your time underwater. Well, almost… although we are quite bias.
Get in touch now and we can help you plan your stay on our beautiful island!