Self-guided walking
4 nights,
single centre
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
Headwater
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Free £150 National Trust gift card when you book by 17 September. Find out more.
Gozo, the second largest of the Maltese islands, offers an ideal setting for a walking holiday. Despite its modest size of 14km by 7km at its widest point, the island's compact nature ensures that nowhere is too far away, making exploration convenient and enjoyable. You stay at the centrally positioned Duke Boutique Hotel in Victoria, an ideal base from which to explore the entire island of Gozo. The compact capital of Victoria is the epicentre of everyday life on the island, and harmoniously blends the bustling activity of its markets and shops during the day, with a relaxed, sociable atmosphere in the evenings. Perfect for enjoying a drink or meal at one of the open-air cafes and restaurants scattered around its main square. Dominated by its recently restored medieval citadel, enjoy spectacular views over the whole island from the towering city walls. However, the real charm of Victoria lies in the maze of tiny back streets clustered around the Basilica, revealing a treasure trove of carved stone balconies, flower-decked doorways and statuettes of the Madonna in street-corner niches.
Gozo's slow pace of life and tranquil atmosphere provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation. Rich in history and culture, Gozo boasts several must-visit sites. One of the most notable is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Ggantija Tombs at Xaghra. These ancient structures, dating back to 3500 BC, are the oldest freestanding temples in the world, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island's prehistoric past. Additionally, the Ta' Pinu sanctuary is another significant landmark worth visiting. This revered site is known for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance, adding to the cultural richness of your Gozo experience.
The walks guide you around the island's impressive coastline and through the cobbled streets of the traditional towns and villages and you'll have plenty of time for exploring, swimming and just soaking up Gozo's tranquil atmosphere. Its rugged landscape ensures spectacular views including Fungus Rock, a natural stone outcrop in the centre of Dwejra Bay, and the Inland Sea. Between autumn and late spring, the countryside bursts into life, revealing an incredible wealth of flora and fauna, with colourful wildflowers and scented herbs.
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.
Our taxi meets you in Malta and takes you to the ferry for the 25-minute trip across to Gozo. Below is a suggested itinerary for the week but you are free to pick and choose when and where you walk each day.
You stay at The Duke Hotel.
Mastercard
Visa
Hairdryer
WiFi
TV
Minibar
Aircon
Safe
Tea/coffee
Nestled within the Duke Complex, the 38-room Duke Boutique Hotel is an ideal base from which to explore the entire island of Gozo. Centrally positioned in Victoria, the capital of Gozo, the hotel boasts magnificent views of the Citadel and Villa Rudle Gardens. Located on Victoria's main thoroughfare, lined with a variety of shops, banks, theatres, restaurants and markets. The main bus terminal and several bus stops are just a stone’s throw away, ensuring easy and efficient travel across the island by bus. This central location not only offers convenience but also immerses you in the vibrant heart of Gozo.
Originally established in the mid-1880s when a Maltese entrepreneur transformed a significant residential building into a high-quality hotel. The hotel was later acquired by a pro-British Gozitan businessman who renamed it the 'Duke of Edinburgh Hotel”. A notable event in its history was the visit by Queen Elizabeth II in 1951. Although the original building was demolished, in 2017 the Duke Boutique Hotel opened under the management of Jason and Sharon Galea.
Since 2018, the hotel has been Eco Certified, adhering to the stringent standards of the Malta Tourism Authority. This was achieved through improvements such as the installation of a rooms management system (REMS) with sensors to switch off air conditioning units and lights when no one is present in the room and the implementation of a food waste policy that includes education, food waste prevention, reduction, recycling, and disposal. The Duke Boutique Hotel is also actively engaged in the local community, supporting various foundations and providing educational training and career exposure opportunities for school children.
The buffet breakfast is a selection of freshly prepared hot and cold options served in the breakfast room, lounge and weather permitting on the 4th floor of the hotel with stunning views all around. Other services include a variety of In-Room Treatments so you can relax and be pampered in the comfort of your own room.
All 38 rooms have a classic contemporary design. The Garden View Room features a balcony overlooking the Villa Rudle Gardens. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with either a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Bathrooms feature rain shower heads, shower or bath.
Room upgrades: Terrace Room with Jacuzzi Hot Tub or Citadel Spa Room with Terrace and Sauna All Terrace Rooms feature a private terrace with a Jacuzzi Hot Tub, offering views of Victoria’s skyline. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Bathrooms feature rain shower heads, shower or bath. Private terraces are equipped with sunbeds, pergola sunshades and pool towels. Jacuzzi hot tub may be heated up to 40C (32C recommended in winter).
Citadel Spa Rooms offer a luxury experience featuring a private terrace with Jacuzzi Hot Tub and stunning views of the Citadel. Designed for ultimate relaxation, rooms include a private Sauna, while the bathroom is equipped with a Jacuzzi Hammam. The Hammam offers a Turkish bath experience for extra pampering. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with either a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, coffee machine, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Private terraces are equipped with sunbeds, pergola sunshades and pool towels. Jacuzzi hot tub may be heated up to 40C (32C recommended in winter).
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
Take a bus to the start of todays walk. 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 Ta Cenc's rocky grounds with fine views across to Malta, stopping to explore the remains of a copper age temple and Neolithic dolmen. Return to Victoria by bus.
You stay at The Duke Hotel.
MastercardVisaHairdryerWiFiTVMinibarAirconSafeTea/coffee
Nestled within the Duke Complex, the 38-room Duke Boutique Hotel is an ideal base from which to explore the entire island of Gozo. Centrally positioned in Victoria, the capital of Gozo, the hotel boasts magnificent views of the Citadel and Villa Rudle Gardens. Located on Victoria's main thoroughfare, lined with a variety of shops, banks, theatres, restaurants and markets. The main bus terminal and several bus stops are just a stone’s throw away, ensuring easy and efficient travel across the island by bus. This central location not only offers convenience but also immerses you in the vibrant heart of Gozo.
Originally established in the mid-1880s when a Maltese entrepreneur transformed a significant residential building into a high-quality hotel. The hotel was later acquired by a pro-British Gozitan businessman who renamed it the 'Duke of Edinburgh Hotel”. A notable event in its history was the visit by Queen Elizabeth II in 1951. Although the original building was demolished, in 2017 the Duke Boutique Hotel opened under the management of Jason and Sharon Galea.
Since 2018, the hotel has been Eco Certified, adhering to the stringent standards of the Malta Tourism Authority. This was achieved through improvements such as the installation of a rooms management system (REMS) with sensors to switch off air conditioning units and lights when no one is present in the room and the implementation of a food waste policy that includes education, food waste prevention, reduction, recycling, and disposal. The Duke Boutique Hotel is also actively engaged in the local community, supporting various foundations and providing educational training and career exposure opportunities for school children.
The buffet breakfast is a selection of freshly prepared hot and cold options served in the breakfast room, lounge and weather permitting on the 4th floor of the hotel with stunning views all around. Other services include a variety of In-Room Treatments so you can relax and be pampered in the comfort of your own room.
All 38 rooms have a classic contemporary design. The Garden View Room features a balcony overlooking the Villa Rudle Gardens. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with either a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Bathrooms feature rain shower heads, shower or bath.
Room upgrades: Terrace Room with Jacuzzi Hot Tub or Citadel Spa Room with Terrace and Sauna All Terrace Rooms feature a private terrace with a Jacuzzi Hot Tub, offering views of Victoria’s skyline. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Bathrooms feature rain shower heads, shower or bath. Private terraces are equipped with sunbeds, pergola sunshades and pool towels. Jacuzzi hot tub may be heated up to 40C (32C recommended in winter).
Citadel Spa Rooms offer a luxury experience featuring a private terrace with Jacuzzi Hot Tub and stunning views of the Citadel. Designed for ultimate relaxation, rooms include a private Sauna, while the bathroom is equipped with a Jacuzzi Hammam. The Hammam offers a Turkish bath experience for extra pampering. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with either a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, coffee machine, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Private terraces are equipped with sunbeds, pergola sunshades and pool towels. Jacuzzi hot tub may be heated up to 40C (32C recommended in winter).
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
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.
You stay at The Duke Hotel.
MastercardVisaHairdryerWiFiTVMinibarAirconSafeTea/coffee
Nestled within the Duke Complex, the 38-room Duke Boutique Hotel is an ideal base from which to explore the entire island of Gozo. Centrally positioned in Victoria, the capital of Gozo, the hotel boasts magnificent views of the Citadel and Villa Rudle Gardens. Located on Victoria's main thoroughfare, lined with a variety of shops, banks, theatres, restaurants and markets. The main bus terminal and several bus stops are just a stone’s throw away, ensuring easy and efficient travel across the island by bus. This central location not only offers convenience but also immerses you in the vibrant heart of Gozo.
Originally established in the mid-1880s when a Maltese entrepreneur transformed a significant residential building into a high-quality hotel. The hotel was later acquired by a pro-British Gozitan businessman who renamed it the 'Duke of Edinburgh Hotel”. A notable event in its history was the visit by Queen Elizabeth II in 1951. Although the original building was demolished, in 2017 the Duke Boutique Hotel opened under the management of Jason and Sharon Galea.
Since 2018, the hotel has been Eco Certified, adhering to the stringent standards of the Malta Tourism Authority. This was achieved through improvements such as the installation of a rooms management system (REMS) with sensors to switch off air conditioning units and lights when no one is present in the room and the implementation of a food waste policy that includes education, food waste prevention, reduction, recycling, and disposal. The Duke Boutique Hotel is also actively engaged in the local community, supporting various foundations and providing educational training and career exposure opportunities for school children.
The buffet breakfast is a selection of freshly prepared hot and cold options served in the breakfast room, lounge and weather permitting on the 4th floor of the hotel with stunning views all around. Other services include a variety of In-Room Treatments so you can relax and be pampered in the comfort of your own room.
All 38 rooms have a classic contemporary design. The Garden View Room features a balcony overlooking the Villa Rudle Gardens. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with either a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Bathrooms feature rain shower heads, shower or bath.
Room upgrades: Terrace Room with Jacuzzi Hot Tub or Citadel Spa Room with Terrace and Sauna All Terrace Rooms feature a private terrace with a Jacuzzi Hot Tub, offering views of Victoria’s skyline. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Bathrooms feature rain shower heads, shower or bath. Private terraces are equipped with sunbeds, pergola sunshades and pool towels. Jacuzzi hot tub may be heated up to 40C (32C recommended in winter).
Citadel Spa Rooms offer a luxury experience featuring a private terrace with Jacuzzi Hot Tub and stunning views of the Citadel. Designed for ultimate relaxation, rooms include a private Sauna, while the bathroom is equipped with a Jacuzzi Hammam. The Hammam offers a Turkish bath experience for extra pampering. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with either a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, coffee machine, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Private terraces are equipped with sunbeds, pergola sunshades and pool towels. Jacuzzi hot tub may be heated up to 40C (32C recommended in winter).
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
Take a bus to Santa Lucija. Today's walk takes you 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), the former site of the Azure Window and the Inland Sea.
You stay at The Duke Hotel.
MastercardVisaHairdryerWiFiTVMinibarAirconSafeTea/coffee
Nestled within the Duke Complex, the 38-room Duke Boutique Hotel is an ideal base from which to explore the entire island of Gozo. Centrally positioned in Victoria, the capital of Gozo, the hotel boasts magnificent views of the Citadel and Villa Rudle Gardens. Located on Victoria's main thoroughfare, lined with a variety of shops, banks, theatres, restaurants and markets. The main bus terminal and several bus stops are just a stone’s throw away, ensuring easy and efficient travel across the island by bus. This central location not only offers convenience but also immerses you in the vibrant heart of Gozo.
Originally established in the mid-1880s when a Maltese entrepreneur transformed a significant residential building into a high-quality hotel. The hotel was later acquired by a pro-British Gozitan businessman who renamed it the 'Duke of Edinburgh Hotel”. A notable event in its history was the visit by Queen Elizabeth II in 1951. Although the original building was demolished, in 2017 the Duke Boutique Hotel opened under the management of Jason and Sharon Galea.
Since 2018, the hotel has been Eco Certified, adhering to the stringent standards of the Malta Tourism Authority. This was achieved through improvements such as the installation of a rooms management system (REMS) with sensors to switch off air conditioning units and lights when no one is present in the room and the implementation of a food waste policy that includes education, food waste prevention, reduction, recycling, and disposal. The Duke Boutique Hotel is also actively engaged in the local community, supporting various foundations and providing educational training and career exposure opportunities for school children.
The buffet breakfast is a selection of freshly prepared hot and cold options served in the breakfast room, lounge and weather permitting on the 4th floor of the hotel with stunning views all around. Other services include a variety of In-Room Treatments so you can relax and be pampered in the comfort of your own room.
All 38 rooms have a classic contemporary design. The Garden View Room features a balcony overlooking the Villa Rudle Gardens. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with either a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Bathrooms feature rain shower heads, shower or bath.
Room upgrades: Terrace Room with Jacuzzi Hot Tub or Citadel Spa Room with Terrace and Sauna All Terrace Rooms feature a private terrace with a Jacuzzi Hot Tub, offering views of Victoria’s skyline. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Bathrooms feature rain shower heads, shower or bath. Private terraces are equipped with sunbeds, pergola sunshades and pool towels. Jacuzzi hot tub may be heated up to 40C (32C recommended in winter).
Citadel Spa Rooms offer a luxury experience featuring a private terrace with Jacuzzi Hot Tub and stunning views of the Citadel. Designed for ultimate relaxation, rooms include a private Sauna, while the bathroom is equipped with a Jacuzzi Hammam. The Hammam offers a Turkish bath experience for extra pampering. Each room has a unique layout and is equipped with either a twin or king-sized bed. Amenities include air conditioning and heating with individually controlled room temperatures, minibar, telephone, tea and coffee making facilities, coffee machine, TV, hairdryer, safe with electrical outlet, international wall sockets, USB ports and free high-speed Wi-Fi. Private terraces are equipped with sunbeds, pergola sunshades and pool towels. Jacuzzi hot tub may be heated up to 40C (32C recommended in winter).
Extra nights: Please contact us for details.
If you'd like to extend your trip with extra hotel nights we recommend: Excelsior Grand Hotel Malta, Valletta; Hotel Phoenicia, Malta.
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The 5 star Excelsior Grand Hotel Malta has magnificent views overlooking Marsamxett Harbour and Fort Manoel and is ideally placed just 2 minutes away from the walled old town centre of the Maltese capital of Valletta. It is a relaxing haven in the bustling city and its facilities boast both an indoor and outdoor pool, (pool towels available), gym, hairdressing salon, relaxing bar area with beautiful views, restaurant and impressive spa facilities.
There are a variety of rooms on offer, including the sea front rooms with amazing views, all rooms have satellite television with international channels, tea and coffee making facilities, mini bar, large safe and air conditioning and free wifi is available throughout the hotel.
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The Hotel Phoenicia is a large, elegant hotel just outside the old city walls of Malta's capital, Valletta, and just 3 minutes walk from the city gate. It has retained its original architecture based on the grand style of the 1920's, with a luxurious classical decor and a blend of warm hospitality and old world service.
Unusually for a city hotel, it has extensive and quiet rear gardens with an open-air rotunda, mini golf course, gazebo, and outdoor swimming pool (heated in winter). A lovely place to stretch your legs or relax with a good book away from the hubbub of the city.
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £172.
These flight inclusive prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £172.
Our aim is to provide holidays that are unbeatable for choice and flexibility. We've listed our most popular travel options below, however you aren't limited to these - we can tailor-make virtually any holiday to suit.
Air prices include our standard flights/transfers
Out: Air Malta Heathrow to Malta Luqa transfer to ferry port 35 minutes then ferry to Gozo, transfer to hotel from ferry port 10 minutes
Return:Transfer to ferry port 10 minutes, ferry to Malta, transfer from ferry port to airport 35 minutes then Malta Luqa to Heathrow
Business/club/first class seats are available on request.
Alternative Air Travel
Alternative flights, onward rail to your holiday area, and connecting private transfers can be arranged from most UK airports. If you would like to use one of the many 'low cost' airlines, we can book these on your behalf. We can also book UK shuttles to connect with your onward flight, please call for details and prices.
Standard transfers
Transfers can be arranged at a supplement from Malta Luqa airport at 15:35, and back to Malta Luqa airport at 11:15.
Alternative transfers
If you require alternative transfers (because you will be arriving at a different time to our standard flights), then we can usually arrange these for you (there may be an additional charge).
To find out more about the travel options available call our sales team on 01606 720199, use our live webchat (we open again 9am Monday) or email sales@headwater.com
Should you require overnight airport accommodation, airport parking or even a uniformed chauffeur to take your car from your departure terminal and park it for you, we can arrange this for you through Holiday Extras. You can book airport parking, airport hotels and executive lounges through their website or contact us for further details. Early booking is recommended to obtain the best availability and prices.
Self-guided walking
4 nights,
single centre
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
Headwater
Navigation App
