Exploring Gozo's Hidden Gems
We can say that Gozo is a hidden gem in itself, but it is also home to plenty of hidden treasures! These include natural and historic sites with an authentic Gozitan touch. Even though Gozo is a small island, it has an interesting rich culture that is deserving of your attention. It would be a pity to miss out on these hidden gems when visiting Gozo, so run through this list and make sure you fit each and every spot into your schedule!
xerri's grotto
This historical gem is located under a private house in Xagħra, Gozo. Opt for a tour from the owner herself, whose grandfather, Mr Anthony Xerri, discovered the grotto in 1923 as he was digging a well for water. This site is notable for its awe-inspiring stalagmites and stalactites that took thousands of years to form, especially considering the scarcity of water on the island. Its temperature is always 19 degrees, making it a historical break from the heat. It lies 7 meters beneath the surface, with a guided pathway spanning approximately 17 meters in length. The entire tour typically lasts around 15 minutes.
San Dimitri Chapel
This small Roman Catholic chapel full of myth and legend is located in the Gozitan countryside, specifically in Għarb. This is a peaceful spot with benches and tables for your picnic, especially if you’re longing for some breathtaking views. This is the only church in Malta dedicated to this Greek saint Saint Demetrius. Dimitri Point is located below a dramatic cliff edge, with cliffs climbing up to over 80 metres. To emphasise the variety of this spot, it is also a dive site enhanced by species such as grouper, barracuda, and tuna. The name originates from the legend of San Dimitri, which recounts his saving of a widow’s son during a Turkish invasion, leading to a painting of him being placed within a chapel. This chapel later succumbed to tremors and sank into the sea. The legend says that the submerged chapel has a burning light in the window, and that the hourly chiming of the bell can still be heard.
lunzjata valley
This fertile valley is one of the most well-preserved spots in Gozo and one of the few remaining valleys on the island with a a permanent freshwater supply. This agricultural valley is only a short walk from Victoria and was previously used for hunting by the Knights of Malta. The fields of green, the constant sounds of running water as well as the chapel dedicated to Our Lady of the Annunciation located at the entrance contribute to a calming atmosphere and one of the best relaxing country walks.
Ta' Kenuna Tower
If you’re in Nadur, their traditional Ftira Għawdxija (Gozitan pizza with potatoes) is not the only thing you should be looking out for. Check out the perfect spot to enjoy it as well! Situated on a hill, Ta’ Kenuna Tower not only offers great views of Malta, Comino, and Gozo, but is also a great spot to watch sunrise and sunset. The tower was built in 1848 and served as a telegraph station. What better place to unwind and indulge in traditional cuisine than a historical site with benches, a mini botanic garden, and a wooden bridge?
Wied il-Għasri
Make your way to Wied il-Għasri on the northern coast of Gozo; one the island’s greatest seaside treasures where impressive cliffs enclose a small beach in great peace and quiet. If you intend on hiking into the inlet, keep in mind that there are no amenities, providing the opportunity to squeeze a picnic into your schedule. Wied il-Għasri is very popular with snorkellers and divers for the surrounding underwater caves. For those seeking a quiet bathing area, the very narrow bay is a haven you can’t miss. The valley begins from Ta’ Dbieġi Hill and goes through Għasri between Żebbuġ and Tal-Ġurdan Hill, towards the open sea on the north coast of Gozo. This is a great place for both sunrise and sunset.
