Holistic healing for the Mind, Body & Soul

What to do while in Gozo

During the retreat there will be plenty of time to reflect as well as 2 full free days, so I wanted to share a few suggestions of what you can do.

Fun day trips..

As mentioned on the previous page, the Maltese islands has something for everybody: sandy beaches, rocky beaches, amazing weather, some of the best diving sites in the mediterranean and delicious cuisine influenced from all over the world. You will find that despite its size, Gozo offers plenty of activities for all ages and interests.

If you like history then you will be spoilt for choice. We will be visiting the Ggantija Temples as part of the retreat and this will include the option to visit the capital of Gozo - Victoria and walk through the Citadel.

Ggantija Temples

Located right around the corner from where we will be staying, are the temples. Travel back in time inside one of the oldest free standing temples in the world (older than Stonehenge, older than the pyramids of Giza!). Two well-preserved limestone neolithic temples that legend says was built by giants. The complex was built over 5,500 years ago but very little is known about why. What we do know is that is was dedicated to the felity goddess and may have been a place of celebration and from the large slabs that can be seen, it is understood that it would have been a very important part of everyday life at the time.

While here, we will find a quiet spot to sit and hold a silent meditation. I really want you to feel the energy.

Citadel, Victoria

There is something magical to be said about walking along the streets that many have gone before over thousands of years. The Citadel was built in medieval times and is a grand hilltop fortress. It is majestic and the scenic views are amazing. There is plenty to do and see as you roam around that will give you a taste of Goztian history. Although smaller than Mdina (in Malta) it still hold mystery and if you love photography, then the breath-taking views will not disappoint. Within the Citadel's walls there are various restaurants and cafes where you can dine. There is a museum within the Citadel and entrance is less than £5.00 per person unless you opt for the combination ticket.

Independence Square, Victoria

Just outside the Citadel but still in the heart of Victoria, you'll find the small but interesting Independence Square. I love just sitting here at any of the tables under one of the umbrellas or in between the trees and sipping at my coffee or having a spot of lunch. At the square, you will find a daily open market. It's not big but it's fun to walk around before finding the perfect spot to sit back and watch local life unfold. If you love shopping then you will be able to access many narrow winding alleyways of Victoria to find artisan gifts, local souvenirs and local art. From here you can walk to Republic Street, where again you will find local shops as well as a couple of shopping arcades where you will find your basics such as daily toiletries and so on.

Churches

You will notice a huge amount of churches, chapels and even basilicas. I was once told that the ratio of churches to residents were higher and you will see what I mean when there. With such a strong Roman Catholic faith there are churches in every village and almost on every corner. There are so many that it's hard to list them all but I will mention a few of my favourite ones.

I'll start with the Cittadella Cathedral (makes sense as I just shared about the Citadell). It was built between 1697 and 1711 in a baroque style.
St. George's Basilica which is located in the old town of Victoria.
Ta Pinu Basilica and Shrine Close to the village of Gharb, it stands proudly surrounded by fields of nature. There is a large room full of religious offerings that have been sent and left there by people who feel they were blessed by a miracle. You will see anything from baby clothes, to photos, to helmets, to letters, to casts - It's impressive to witness and you will need some time to read some of the emotional letters (bring a tissue). The church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Zebbug Church covered in Onyx crystal and dedicated to the Assumption.

You know how in the UK, when you give directions, you tend to mention Pubs as landmarks? well in Malta and Gozo its a church, chapel or cathedral.

Private Sunset boat cruise

I am seriously looking into organising a private sunset cruise for the group. We will sail around the Southern parts of Gozo and stop off at the Blue Lagoon for a swim at what I think is the best time of day. Most of the other boat tours will have departed and we will have it all to ourselves (almost anyway). Sunset on the open waters while eating a cooked meal by the captain is memorable and the photos are magical and worth the trip. I have done this before when my son was still young, taking my mum and nephew and it's something we still talk about now many years later. I have shared some images from that trip below x

Horse-Riding

Exploring the paths and coastline of the Eastern part of Gozo on horseback can be a unique and immersive way to connect with the natural beauty of the area. Supervised outings ensure not only the safety of the riders but also provide an opportunity for individuals of varying skill levels to enjoy the activity. Horse-riding enthusiasts would likely appreciate the chance to bond with these majestic animals while taking in the picturesque landscapes of Gozo. If you decide to partake in this activity, make sure to capture the moments and savour the experience. Riding through the paths and along the coastline can offer a different perspective compared to more conventional means of exploration. It's an adventure that combines the thrill of horse-riding with the tranquility of nature, creating a truly unforgettable experience for those passionate about this activity.

Dwejra- The inland Sea

This is one of my favourite locations in Gozo and one that holds find childhood memories. This is perfect for anybody who enjoys being outdoors and in touch with nature. Dwejra (pronounced "d-wey-ra") is located on the outskirts of the beautiful seaside village of San Lawrenz. You will have seen this if you are a Game of Thrones fan! This WAS also the home to the Azure Window, a naturally formed arch that WAS attached to one of the cliffs. Sadly this collapsed in 2017 during a storm and it was feared that the extensive traffic during filming Game of Thrones may have weakened the structure.

BUT, there is still so much to see and still definitely worth a visit.

The inland Sea is a naturally formed bay that is surround by tall cliffs and connected to the open sea via a large cave. When I was younger, we would spend the day here, swimming and snorkeling and chilling out on the pebbly beach. It's the perfect place to 'just be'. Be still, Be present. There are 20 minute boat trips available that will transport you from inside the bay, through the cave and out to the open sea.
Fungus Rock is not something you will be able to step onto as it is a protected area, but don't let it's tiny size fool you as to the importance of it throughout Gozitan history. During the time of the Knights of St John, access to this rock was forbidden and even guarded because of the plants that grew there. It was believed that the plant (fungus) had medicinal properties and therefore highly valuable.
The watchtower at Dwejra was built in 1652 by the Grand Master Lascaris and was used as a defence for the surrounding areas from any attacks from sea. Similar towers can be seen all over the islands and formed a chain of watchtowers around the islands. They would light fires as an early warning of incoming attacks.
The Blue Hole is a divers dream! Free diving is the way to go and believe me its deep - like 10mtrs deep!!! Not for the fainthearted but an amazing sight of what the landscape looks like under the water's surface. It is a deep natural rock formation that opens up into an underwater arch and now the Azure window has collapsed, divers from all over the world flock here to explore.

Comino & The Blue Lagoon

Comino is a hidden gem with its untouched beauty and a fascinating transformation from an island primarily inhabited by pigs to a quiet destination with a hotel, a humble police station, and a few farmers. The allure of the Blue Lagoon, with its crystal-clear waters and stunning shades of azure blue, adds a magical touch to the island's charm.

The ease of access via the hop-on-hop-off ferry from the ferry point makes it convenient for visitors to explore this tranquil island. The ferry ride itself could offer scenic views of the surrounding waters, enhancing the overall experience.

For nature enthusiasts and hikers, the promise of long, leisurely hikes during the spring and autumn seasons sounds delightful. Exploring the island on foot allows for a closer connection with its natural beauty, and the watchtower hints at historical and scenic points of interest.

It's advisable to bring sturdy footwear for those planning to explore the island on foot, emphasising the importance of being prepared for the terrain. The combination of sun-soaked relaxation and the opportunity to discover natural beauty hotspots, including the watchtower, creates a well-rounded experience for visitors.

Overall, Comino offers a perfect blend of tranquility, natural beauty, and a touch of history, making it an appealing destination for those seeking a peaceful escape and a chance to immerse themselves in the pristine surroundings of the Blue Lagoon.

Hop-on-hop-off bus

The option of a convenient and affordable way to explore Gozo in a day with regular stops, guided commentary, and visits to major sightseeing hotspots sounds like an ideal solution for visitors. Such services often provide a hassle-free and informative experience, allowing you to make the most of your time on the island.

The guided commentary can add a valuable layer of information, providing insights into the history, culture, and significance of each sightseeing spot. This not only enhances the overall experience but also helps you gain a deeper understanding of the island's heritage.

Regular stops allows you to take your time at each attraction without feeling rushed, making it possible to explore and appreciate the beauty of Gozo at a comfortable pace. This kind of transportation service is especially beneficial for those who may be on a tight schedule or prefer a structured way to see the main attractions.

It's one way to ensure that you can have a well-rounded and enriching experience on the island within a limited timeframe.

Ta' Kola Windmill

Exploring an old, authentic windmill with a wooden milling setup and original circular grinding stones adds a fascinating historical and cultural dimension to your experience. Windmills have played a crucial role in agriculture and food production for centuries, and visiting one with its original milling equipment provides a glimpse into the traditional methods of grain processing. The wooden milling setup and circular grinding stones showcase the craftsmanship and engineering of a bygone era when such windmills were essential for communities to produce flour. The tactile and visual elements of the milling process can transport visitors back in time, offering a hands-on understanding of the labour-intensive yet ingenious methods employed to turn grain into flour.

Exploring such historical landmarks not only provides a connection to the past but also contributes to the preservation of cultural heritage.