Intermediate Malta Trail

Today, you will follow the mostly flat northern coastline of Gozo, with a gentle ascent towards the end of the route. Leave Marsalforn behind and follow the rocky shoreline past Qbajjar to the small beach at Xwejni Bay.

The highlight of the day will be the Marsalforn Salt Pans. These 350-year-old salt pans stretch for around three kilometres along the coast and are carved into the rock like a giant chessboard. They are still in use today, with locals harvesting salt by hand in summer and storing it in nearby caves. This is a great place to buy hand-harvested Gozo sea salt and observe this traditional craftsmanship.

Next, take a short detour to Dwejra Bay, home to Billinghurst Cave and the stunning Cathedral Cave diving site, which is illuminated by sunlight. Then continue along the coast to Wied il-Għasri Gorge, briefly leaving the seafront to loop inland around the iconic Ta' Pinu Basilica via a V-shaped dirt trail.

Return to the coast to enjoy views of Gozo’s cliffs and sea caves. Don't miss the short detour to Wied il-Mielaħ Window, also known as the 'New Blue Window' — a fantastic viewpoint at the edge of the island. The final stretch then leads gently inland to the traditional Birbuba houses. Once you reach Għarb, it's time to unwind!

Today, you will follow the dramatic south-western coast of Gozo, which has plenty of ups and downs. You will then begin to descend, enjoying views of the lighthouse in the distance past the San Lawrenz Parish Church and through the village, before tackling a fun, technical limestone descent.

You will then reach the lowest point of the day at the stunning Inland Sea of Dwejra, a saltwater lagoon connected to the Mediterranean Sea by a narrow natural arch. On calm days, traditional luzzuk boats glide through the tunnel. This area is a paradise for divers and geology enthusiasts. Nearby, you can visit the small Sant' Anna Chapel and enjoy the stunning clifftop views.

After a short inland loop past Dwejra Tower, a historic coastal watchtower, you will reach viewpoints overlooking the Blue Lagoon and Wied il-Mielaħ cliffs, which are renowned for their impressive limestone formations. The path then continues past the lesser-known Xlendi Cave Temples and ancient tombs, as well as the Ras il-Wardija Punic Sanctuary, which is perched on the island's south-western cape.

You will then head slightly inland again, hiking past the small L-Għadira ta’ Sarrafilu pond and enjoying open views over Xlendi Valley. After reaching Ta' Kerċem and its old stone washhouse, follow the road towards Xlendi. As you descend the final long, undulating stretch, you will arrive in the traditional fishing village of Xlendi, surrounded by cliffs and clear blue waters. Take a deep breath — you've made it!

Hike along Gozo's southern coastline, starting with rolling terrain that eventually levels out into a long descent towards Mġarr. Cross the small Xlendi Bridge, a great spot for photos with beautiful bay views. Further on, you will pass the iconic Xlendi Tower, Gozo’s oldest freestanding coastal watchtower. Built in 1650, it was used to guard against smugglers and pirates. The path then continues along dramatic cliffs, offering views of the Dwejra desert landscape, the Wied il-Mielaħ Window and the imposing Sanap Cliffs (106 m).

Take in the sweeping view of the Dingli Cliffs, then turn left inland at around the 4 km mark. Pass through the village of Sannat, where the impressive Xewkija Church can be seen on your left. This section takes you past the Ta' Cenc dolmen on the plateau and the ancient site of Borg l-Imramma, rich in archaeological remains and prehistoric cart ruts. From here, you will descend to the beautiful, secluded Mġarr ix-Xini Bay, home to a Knights' watchtower and crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming or snorkelling.

Continue along the coastline, passing a secluded swimming spot and a rare fougasse coastal defence site carved into the rocks. Enjoy the views of Fort Chambray, Mġarr Harbour and the salt pans along the way. Near the end of the route, you will reach the secluded, rocky beach of Gorgon Bay, which boasts stunning views of Comino and Malta — the perfect finale! You are almost at the ferry terminal in Mġarr. Well done! You have completed the Malta Trail via the Gozo Coastal Walk!

Once you have completed your trek around Gozo, you will depart from the picturesque harbour of Mġarr. With the sea breeze in your hair and memories in your heart, it’s time to board the ferry back to Malta. Take this peaceful moment to reflect on the highlights of your adventure. Safe travels!