Amy's Guided Tours
of
Malta and Gozo
TOUR OF GOZO (requires about 8 hrs)
Known as the island of Calypso, Gozo is Malta's sister and smaller island, peacefull, less sophisticated and much slower in pace. A charming little island, roughly oval in shape and measuring 14km by 7.25km, with a population of 31,000 with a way of life rooted in fishing and farming. Here, there are no factories, only cottage industries and very few hotels. A ferry service runs every 45 minutes from Paradise Bay, north-west of Malta, to cross the channel some 5km wide. The good thing about Gozo being so small is that distances are only short, allowing the visitor to pack in so much natural beauty within a day.
We will start our day by visiting the cliffs at ta' Cenc and Mgarr ix-Xini, a little harbour in a gorge accessible from the little hamlet of Sannat. Then to head for Xlendi Bay, the prettiest little fishing village imaginable with its varying shades of blue and green. It lies at the bottom of a steep sided valley, cradled by cliffs on both sides. This is another haven for divers.
A short drive and we will arrive at the Ta' Pinu church, a pilgrim church and an architectural masterpiece, testimony to the people's faith and devotion.
We'll then descend to Marsalforn Bay taking the steep road behind the town of Zebbug to have the most magnificent coastal view.
Gozo too had its share of pre-history and the Ggantija Temples are probably the most impressive on the islands. The two temples stand proud, side by side, on the Xaghra plateau and are bound together by a massive wall, opening onto a common forecourt.
Gozo's capital is Victoria, crowning which is the Citadel, the fortified town above it. Our transport will drive us right up to the walls, behind which the people sought refuge from the frequent attacks by the Turks and the Corsairs. One can well imagine what life was like in the middle ages here, so little has changed!
We return to the harbour via Qala where a breathtaking view of Comino and Malta can be seen.
