Gozo: Malta's Underrated Island Gem with 300 Days of Sunshine
When planning a European winter getaway, reliable weather is often a gamble, no matter how far south you venture. Recently, writer Holly Clarke took a chance on the Maltese Archipelago and struck gold—not just meteorologically, but in discovering a Mediterranean treasure trove. From the silent streets of Mdina to Valletta's vibrant capital energy, Malta offers something for everyone: St Julian's nightlife, the Blue Lagoon's pristine waters, and enough churches for every day of the year.
A Quick Escape from the UK
Holly departed Manchester Airport at 7am and was strolling along breathtaking Balluta Bay by noon. Flights to Malta are readily accessible from John Lennon Airport and various other UK hubs, making it an easy escape. While Malta captivated her, it was the smaller, lesser-visited neighbour, Gozo, that truly stole her heart.
Discovering Gozo's Charm
The Republic of Malta comprises three islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. Malta has the largest population at around 574,000, while Gozo is home to just 39,287 residents, and Comino only two. Holly soon found herself on a ferry to Gozo, a direct 20-minute journey costing about 5 Euros for a return ticket. A new £2 million airport is in development to speed up trips from Malta, but for now, the ferry remains the primary route.
Arriving on the 26-square-mile island, Holly was greeted by rugged terrain, spectacular scenery, and crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming. Gozo is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with dramatic cliffs and deep valleys. The clincher? It boasts an impressive 300 days of sunshine annually.
Adventure and Cuisine on the Island
With only a day to explore, Holly opted for a tuk-tuk tour with Yippee Malta, driven by lifelong resident Joe. As they traversed the hills, she marvelled at landscapes reminiscent of the UK, but with azure skies and brilliant sunshine—a welcome change from England's winter gloom.
Her first stop was Mgarr ix Xini bay for a climbing and abseiling experience with Gozo Adventures. Despite initial nerves, Holly embraced the adventure, soaking in stunning valley panoramas. Afterwards, hunger led her to Il-Kartell, a seafood restaurant on the marina. She savoured Linguini Al Kartell, describing it as one of the most unforgettable pasta dishes she's ever tasted.
Life on Gozo moves at a leisurely pace. Unlike the rushed lunches back home, here, meals are enjoyed over an hour or two, starting with bread and olive oil, followed by pasta, and ending with a double espresso—a perfect way to decelerate and savour the moment.
Historic Sites and Scenic Views
No time for a lull, Holly visited the Qbajjar Salt Pans on the northern coastline. These 350-year-old rock-cut saltpans are a remarkable sight, steeped in Gozitan tradition. Next, she explored Għar tal-Mixta cave, perched above Ramla Bay. A short 15-minute walk from the beach leads to panoramic views of the coastline, though it was crowded even in off-season.
The iconic Citadel in Victoria (Rabat), Gozo's capital, was a must-see. This fortified city, visible across the island, offers free entry and hours of exploration. Holly admired the Cathedral of the Assumption, built from local limestone, and enjoyed panoramic views of Gozo. For 5 Euros, visitors can access museums and historical sites, but time constraints cut her visit short.
Planning Your Trip
If staying overnight, Holly recommends a sunset at the Citadel or an early morning swim. For more details, visit visitmalta.com. Holly stayed at the Malta Marriott Resort & Spa, with rooms from £147. Ryanair offers flights from Manchester to Malta from £42 and from Liverpool from £32. KM Malta Airlines provides flights from Heathrow from £111 and Gatwick from £86.
Gozo proves that a short flight from the UK can lead to an underrated paradise, blending adventure, relaxation, and endless sunshine.
