gozoandmalta.com - About Gozo and Comino

About Gozo and Comino Gozo is known as the island of peace and tranquillity by many. The island is greener and much less densely populated than Malta. Especially in winter evenings, it would be no surprise to find yourself walking alone in the streets of some villages or with no car in sight. According to legend, Gozo was Homer’s isle of Ogygia, where the nymph Calypso held the Greek hero Odysseus as her companion for seven years. Today Calypso is a very popular cave by tourists as it offers panoramic views of the red sand of Ramla Bay. The cave is also free of charge to visit.
Gozo has a population of 31,000 which is equivalent to the town of Birkirkara in Malta alone. It is home to some of the oldest religious structures in the world including the fascinating Ggantija temples., which is featured in the World's guiness of records as the oldest freestanding structure in the world. Gozo being a very religious island is full of churches and one is expected to find not only the main parish church in each village but also many other small churches all round. The most impressive of these is probably the church of Xewkija, a major landmark which boasts one of the world’s largest domes. The capital Victoria, hosts two of the islands' most magnificent churches, the Cathedral and the Basilica of St George. Another church which is spiritually very important to the Gozitan community is the Basilica of Ta’ Pinu. Located in the open countryside, Ta’ Pinu is an important place of pilgrimage as according to rumours, voices used to be heard in the basilica which are believed to be those of the Virgin of Ta' Pinu. To really appreciate the beauty and unique character of Gozo one should visit its rural villages, such as Ta‘ Dbiegi near San Lawrenz, the Ta’ Ġordan Lighthouse near Għasri, Ħondoq ir-Rummien near Qala and the San Blas valley near Nadur. One can admire its rugged landscape and spectacular coastline. In Gozo one will also find the Dwejra Azure Window which is listed among the top wonders of the world, and the nearby Inland Sea. Two popular tourist resorts are those of Marsalforn and Xlendi bay where many locals have their second home to spend summer near the seaside. As a result these two villages are quite hectic in summer but extremely quite in the lower season. One will find lots of restaurants and bars in the area which transforms itself into the main nightlife area of the island. In Xlendi, one will also find one of the best clubs in the world La Grotta. Ta’ Ċenċ, is also a favourite among nature lovers with its imposing cliffs. The sea around the island is warm and clear, and there are dive sites for the novice but also for the more experienced. The red golden sands of Ramla Bay are perfect for families and swimming, while the spectacular Blue Hole beneath the Azure Window is a must for diving lovers. The latter is known to be one of the best diving spots worldwide. The coastline and surrounding waters also offer opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and fishing.
In Victoria (or Rabat as known by the locals), one can admire the Citadel which is a historic fortified city. It offers superb views of almost all parts of the island and a must for history lovers but not only. One will find a number of museums along with the main parish church of the island which is known to be the mother of all churches. The Citadel gets very quiet and romantic in the evening. Victoria is also the centre of everyday activity and infact tends to be quite busy in the morning being in the very centre of the island. One will find a small market and shops of some of the most known brands. It is also the place where locals meet up especially in the morning when the main market square, It-Tokk, comes to life. A stroll around Victoria‘s market and narrow winding streets will lead you to stalls brimming with fresh fish, delicious fresh produce, cheeses and wines, antiques and crafts, fishing nets and knitwear. Victoria is also the Island’s cultural hub, having not one but two opera houses, both hosting major international performances. Being essentially rural in character, it comes as no surprise that a visit to Gozo will entail the sampling of some of the Mediterranean’s tastiest and juiciest gastronomic delights. Your stay in Gozo will be a journey of discovery of the island’s rich natural flavours. With an abundance of fresh organic produce and traditional farming, a generous supply of fresh fish and its very own gastronomic specialties, our island will never cease to surprise you. Gozo is well served by restaurants which offer the best of the rich and varied local cuisine, as well as quality cosmopolitan fare. Although Gozo's beautiful beaches are natural magnets for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle, leisurely walks in the countryside or through quaint village alleys are just an enticing alternative. Boat trips around the island offer many sights and easy access to beautiful beaches. San blas is a very small but beautiful sandy beach which is only accessible by boat trip. From the sea, you can enjoy a very special view of the towering cliffs and the many coves and caves which have formed over the millennia, now home to various bird species and other wildlife. A day trip usually includes a stop at the mythical Blue Lagoon in Comino, which is world-renowned for its crystal clear waters. Relaxation will also be a major consideration when selecting your accommodation in Gozo. Traditional countryside houses, most of which come equipped with a private swimming pool, are a popular option with visitors. However, if you really intend to pamper yourself, the island also offers a range of world class hotels specializing in wellness which are frequented by the rich and famous. Should you happen to be in Gozo in the summer, be sure not to miss the experience of one of our festas. The passion which goes into these festivities is impressive even by Maltese standards. Beautifully decorated churches, band marches playing jolly tunes, delicious traditional food, all take place under an illuminated canopy of spectacular fireworks displays. Carnival in Gozo is generally a time for fun and colour, and the spontaneous celebrations in the village of Nadur are certain to be a memorable experience. Nadur is a favourite among both gozitans and maltese as its considered to host the best carnival among all villages in Malta and Gozo.
Comino Comino Island forms part of the Maltese Archipelago and is the smallest of the three islands and Comino covers only 3.5 km. The island is situated in between of Gozo and Malta and can easily be reached by boat. Comino Island is noted for its tranquility and isolation with no cars on the island. It has a permanent population of only four residents. One priest and one policeman commute from the nearby island of Gozo, to render their services to the local population and summertime visitors. Comino is famous for The Blue Lagoon with its crystal clear turquoise water, which is compared with tropical bounty paradises. The Blue Lagoon was formed by a channel that separates sun-baked and barren Comino from the islet of Cominotto. The Blue Lagoon is very popular with tourists enjoying water sports, such as swimming, snorkling and diving.