Gozo – My Sweet Love, Here We Are!
Nancy and Peter welcome you to Ta Marie’s BnB, your Gozo home away from home! Merħba! A boutique BnB settled in 200+ year old traditional House of Character on one of the highest towns in Gozo with magnificent views over the seaside and valleys. We offer our guests a comfortable, luxurious, and tranquil stay with a warm personal approach. Don’t forget to enjoy your Early Bird Discount (15%) for every (min) 3-day booking, when booked before June 6th 2021. (Coupon: Early-B-2021) – Come stay with us and Book Now.
Gozo, known locally as Għawdex and in antiquity as Gaulos is an island of the Maltese archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea. The island is part of the Republic of Malta. After the island of Malta itself, it is the second-largest island in the archipelago. The island has a population of around 38,000 (out of Malta’s total 475,000), and its inhabitants are known as Gozitans (Għawdxin). It is rich in historic locations such as the Ġgantija temples, which, along with the other Megalithic Temples of Malta, are among the world’s oldest free-standing structures.
The island is rural in character and less developed than the island of Malta. Gozo is known for its scenic hills, which are featured on its coat of arms, The Azure Window, a natural limestone arch, was a remarkable geological feature until its collapse on March 8, 2017. The island has other notable natural features, including the Inland Sea and Wied il-Mielaħ Window. There are many beaches on the island, as well as seaside resorts that are popular with both locals and tourists, the most popular being Marsalforn and Xlendi. Gozo is considered one of the top diving destinations in the Mediterranean and a center for water sports.
Things to keep in mind & Exploration Ideas
Eat everything and talk to everyone – This is great advice no matter where you go. The history of the islands is honestly a fascinating one, and the various waves of migration and colonization have created a culture that is without parallel in the world, from its language down to the food. Lots of Italian influence means some of those classic meals you enjoy in Italy can be found on the islands as well. Additionally, there is a rich tradition of farming and agriculture, especially on Gozo, so also expect to find lots of delicious, locally prepared dishes, like daily fresh homemade ravioli stuffed with goat cheese, it doesn’t get any fresher than that and the reward was a sumptuous meal prepared with care and finesse. The Maltese are proud, especially of their food, so don’t forget to learn more about the culture through your stomach.
Crystal blue waters –Gozo is probably best known for the beautiful waters that surround it. The best way to explore the grottoes and swimming holes around Gozo itself is by hiring a local captain to take you out on a boat. From hidden beaches tucked away in caves, to gorgeous swimming spots.
Beautiful landscapes – Standing on top of the ancient walls of the Citadel is when it first hit you. Gozo is not your typical island getaway. The beaches are great, and the interior is typically Mediterranean, which means scrubby landscapes that are honestly beautiful in their own way; the hills and towns surrounding you with just the first of many such beautiful encounters. From vineyards to the coastal bluffs, a lot of variety and all of it is absolutely stunning. The best way to experience it for yourself is to hop in a car or on a bus and just see as much of it as you can.
Exploring Victoria – Sitting in a cafe, slowly drinking an expertly prepared espresso and watching the island walk by. Also known by the local name Rabat, tourists often travel through Victoria but far too few spend time really exploring it. Reflective of the island it calls home, Victoria is not large and you’ll see right away what makes this city so very special. Whether it’s the views from the imposing Citadel and Basilica or just wandering along the curvy roads that reveal beautiful architecture and private moments of perfection, you’ll quickly see what makes this city and island so much fun to explore.
Prehistoric past – The Maltese islands have been a popular place for a long time, and Gozo is no exception. While most visitors know about its more recent history, it’s the prehistoric past that has put the island on the global map. Seven megalithic temples found both on Malta and Gozo are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and should not be missed. More than 5,500 years old, the temples are some of the oldest surviving religious buildings in the world and just standing there in front of the entrance to these Bronze Age marvels is an experience almost like none other.
Never forget – Go dive! – In the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta is one of Europe’s most outstanding dive destinations. In Gozo, its famous Blue Hole and Azure Window are iconic, the rock formations creating iridescent colors, adventure-filled swim-through’s, and giant schools of bream and damselfish. Yet wreck dives abound too, with the Karwela, Cominoland and Xlendi top of the list. Marine life in Malta and Gozo is thriving, with octopus, barracuda, and seahorses often sighted.
Just relax and enjoy –While the island does offer all, it’s not why it’s so popular. As one of the most beautiful and relatively untouched islands in the Mediterranean, the best thing to do on Gozo is just relax and enjoy. Our farmhouse and your hosts are here to make sure you are settling for an unforgettable stay, which is how most people visit the island. Relax by the pool, let our chef indulge you with a great drinks and food, drive down to the beach and that’s about it. Pace of life on Gozo is slow, and instead of fighting it, the most policy is to just give in and go with the flow. Spend a week and act like a Gozitan, enjoy yourself, enjoy life and enjoy the experience