Less than 8kms northwest of Malta, the sister island of Gozo, much smaller and less densely populated is a haven for those who want to escape for a day to enjoy the greenery and relaxed atmosphere of small secluded villages, serene countryside and rocky seashore. A very efficient day and night ferry service links the two islands. From the ferry, a stone's throw away, you can see the tiny deserted island of Comino whose crystal clear surrounding sea is often exploited by snorkelers and scuba divers.
From Valletta's City gate bus terminus, Bus 45 reaches the ferry terminal at Cirkewwa, now under reconstruction in about 1 hour. The bus trip gives passengers the opportunity to pass through the village of Mosta which is renowned for its huge Rotunda church. It continues through the seaside fishing village of St.Paul's Bay before making its way through the picturesque village of Mellieha.
Even before the ship reaches the small harbour of Mgarr in Gozo, you already have the opportunity to enjoy typical Gozo scenery: green hills, church steeples, white cliffs and numerous typical fishing boats anchored alongside the Mgarr pier.
From Mgarr harbour, take the frequent bus to Gozo's capital Victoria where most historic attractions are concentrated. On the way, it is advisable to stop for a historic preview at 'Gozo Heritage', a 20 minute audio-visual tour of the island's history and prehistory, complete with light and sound effects. In the adjoining souvenir shop, you can see local craftsmen at work. On reaching Victoria's bus station, head towards the main square lined with residential buildings and shaded with old trees. The main square, officially called Independence square but colloquially known as 'it-Tokk,' is the venue for a crowded daily outdoor market where fresh fruit, vegetables, flowers and souvenirs are displayed for sale.
In another square south of Independence square, St. George's Basilica built 4 centuries ago but enlarged and restored several times houses numerous artistic works worth seeing. The highlight is Mattia Preti's painting 'St.George and the Dragon' above the high altar. From here, walk along narrow meandering streets towards the Citadel, a ring of thick defensive walls constructed around a hill from where the view of Gozitan church steeples, domes and towers is unforgettable. Enter the nearby 17th-century cathedral dedicated to the Assumption. Adorned with numerous priceless paintings and works of art, this is one of Gozo's highlights you shouldn't miss. The dome which gives an impression of immense height is just a trompe l'oeil, a flat painting attributed to the Sicilian artist Antonio Manuele. The adjoining Cathedral museum houses numerous ecclesiastical works of art which include silverware, church vestments and a unique bishop's carriage. Downhill from the cathedral, the Museum of Archeology provides information about the Ggantija Temples, one of the world's oldest buildings. You can also see a vast exposition of Carthaginian and Roman remains together with numerous stone carvings.
From Victoria's bus station, you can take a bus to Ta' Pinu, a 20th-century church which has replaced a small chapel since the 1920s. The elaborate interior sculpture in stone is wonderful; more wonderful is the architecture of the slender free-standing bell tower. The church is a pilgrimage site visited by the locals all year round. If you still have an appetite for church architecture, visit the Church of St.John the Baptist in the village of Xewkija. Built between 1951 and 1971, it is a circular colossal stone structure of immense proportions. You can't miss it; its imposing dome is seen from everywhere, even from Malta's north towns and villages.
If you want to relax away from attractions and sights, why don't you take a bus to the coastal village of Xlendi? The narrow bay, lined with typical village houses, hotels, restaurants and outdoor cafes is a top venue for swimming and sunbathing. Better and more picturesque is Dwejra Bay, a peaceful shallow lagoon protected from the open sea by a stretch of cliffs. A natural arch carved out of the rocks called the Azure window connects the lagoon with the sea. You can swim out through the arch to the open sea or you can take a boat trip around the splendid coastline nearby. Another beach resort which was recently developed into a top tourist venue is Marsalforn. Stroll along the wonderful promenade lined with pubs, restaurants and souvenir shops or venture further west to reach the Qbajjar salt pans, a place where sea salt has been produced since the times of the Romans.
Before taking the ferry back to Malta, be sure to taste Gozo's unique delicatessen. Called 'gbejna', it is a popular variety of local goat's milk cheese deliciously sprinkled with black peppercorns. Or why don't you try the Gozitan cheesecakes, stuffed with ricotta and excellent with a cup of espresso or capuccino? A bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon or Chardonnay produced from Gozo's fertile vineyards is perhaps the best product to take back home.