Highlights of Gozo Cycling

• Wonderful gentle cycling: scenic coastal tracks, sleepy hamlets, lush valleys, breathtaking views
• Fabulously varied **** and ***** hotels, all with pools
• Baroque churches, honey-hued hilltop hamlets, archaeological treasures, colourful fishing villages
• Beautiful secluded bays; stunning turquoise seas

Surrounded by azure Mediterranean waters, diminutive Gozo lies just 5km from its lively sister island of Malta. In contrast, the pace of life on Gozo however is one from an era gone-by, even a short visit will lull you into its relaxed rhythms. This tranquillity, combined with the island's size, makes Gozo perfect for gentle exploration on two wheels - each day offers a montage of ancient archaeological treasures, stunning gentle tracks, coastal vistas and hidden hilltop hamlets - and short distances mean that you can explore at your own pace. An evocative silence pervades the island; as you pedal along the only sound is the soothing peel of church bells, the sea softly lapping the shore or the rhythmical clopping of horses' hooves.

Your journey starts at Ta Cenc, the island's most panoramic spot with views sweeping as far as Malta and Comino. First, you pedal to Calypso's Cave with breathtaking views over Ramla's red sands, to reach Xaghra, where locals gather every afternoon in its beautiful piazza to catch up on the daily gossip! You then travel west past a string of colourful fishing harbours and striking salt pans to the luxurious Kempinski Hotel in San Lawrenz. Your last section takes you inland to honey-hued Victoria with its tangle of alleys and ancient citadel, before taking in azure sea views again as you return to Ta'Cenc.

The superb hotels offer a highlight to your holiday too; our favourite is the romantically secluded ***** Ta'Cenc where in fine weather you dine under a 400-year old carob tree. In Xaghra you stay in a former Gozitan farmhouse, now renovated into a cosy hotel, and our hotel in San Lawrenz boasts one of Europe's best spas. All have sparkling outdoor pools (as well as indoor heated ones at two hotels!) and offer delicious al fresco dining in warm weather, as well as plenty of opportunity to sample Gozo's excellent wine.