Walking on Gozo - Calypso's Isle - Short Break

Walking information

The terrain is moderate with some small hills and the walking is often along ancient roads and old farm tracks. There are some steep descents to the coast and the occasional rough, stony section. Otherwise the walking is essentially 1-boot level.

Day 1: Arrival in Malta/Transfer to Gozo

Our taxi meets you in Malta and takes you to the ferry for the 25-minute trip across to Gozo.
You stay at the Hotel Ta'Cenc (breakfast and evening meal)

Day 2: Mgarr and the Raiders' Cove 7km/4.5mi/2.5hr

Mgarr is Gozo's port, full of traditional and colourful luzzu fishing boats, and dominated by the 18th century Fort Chambray, built by the Knights of St John. The path from here hugs the coast as far as the narrow creek of Mgarr ix-Xini where Turkish raiders landed in 1551 - the perfect place for a picnic and swim. From here, you follow an old mule track up through the hotel's rocky grounds with fine views across to Malta, stopping to explore the remains of a copper age temple and Neolithic dolmen.

Day 3: Ta'Pinu and Gharb 12km/7.5mi/3.5hr or 14km/9mi/4hr

The north western corner of the island is only accessible on foot, along easy to navigate farm tracks. First stop is the remarkable neo-Romanesque basilica Ta' Pinu, a huge national shrine built on the site of a miracle in 1923. Your route then leads through unique ravine-like wieds (streams) to Gharb with a stunning Baroque church dating from 1699 and traditional stone houses. The final stretch takes you along the striking cliffs of the north coast where you are rewarded with fantastic views across Gozo's famous salt pans.

Day 4: Fungus Rock and the Inland Sea 12km/7.5mi/4hr

To the west coast and the fascinating Punic burial site at Wardija Point. There's a mythical feeling here, like being on the edge of the world. Narrow stone-walled lanes lead down to bamboo groves and to Fungus Rock (named after the 'magic' plant which grew there) and the Inland Sea.

Day 5: Leave Gozo