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11 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 16 JANUARY 2026 CULTURE A rural escape in Gozo DESCRIBED as the island of three hills, Gozo has always been a rural travel destination, albeit one that boasts rich ar- chitectural and historic treas- ures that captivate travellers. The island's hilly landscape has ensured that Gozo has sev- eral prominent hilltops, and there are definitely more than three hills that can be explored on a rural island holiday! The topography has graced the island with scenic land- scapes that change with the seasons. Hilltops naturally lead down to valleys or gorg- es, some lush with greenery and fields that seem like quilt patches handstitched one next to another, and some raw and wild. The valley of Lunzjata is one beautiful valley that evokes the illustrations in fairytales, and apart from running wa- ter, it comes complete with an old chapel tucked in the cliff face. To experience the raw and untouched natural land- scape, seek the Mġarr ix-Xini ravine, which cuts through the Gozitan countryside with its rugged cliffs, retaining a wild and pristine beauty. Valleys wind their way around the is- land, sometimes interjoining each other and eventually lead- ing up to the shores and bays. Ramla Valleys spouts on the expansive red sands of Ramla; Marsalforn Valley leads to one of Gozo's topmost fishermen's villages. Lunzjata Valley and Munxar Ravine intertwine on their way to Xlendi Bay, while the unique Wied il-Għasri leads to the narrow, fjord-like inlet where crystalline waters lap up at the pebbly shoreline. Hiking and cycling are per- fect ways to explore the island's rural beauty. Beyond the val- leys, hills, beaches, rocky inlets and secret coves, Gozo's coast- line is enriched with majestic cliffs dropping into the dark blue Mediterranean Sea. Kay- aking and boat trips around the coast will let you discover breathtaking views. Sea ad- ventures and activities, such as paddleboarding, snorkelling, and diving, can all be roped in as part of the rural holiday in Gozo. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the vibrant natural her- itage of different countryside habitats like garigue, maquis and coastal areas. Outdoor ad- ventures are part and parcel of a rural getaway on the island. Adrenalin seekers might also try abseiling, but those who are more laid back or have mobili- ty issues can consider the more leisurely Tuk-Tuk tours that seek out some more accessible rural paths. Whenever you're out and about at sunset, seek out vantage points to witness the spectacle of the sun burst- ing into gold and pink before disappearing into the horizon. As you move around to ex- plore the island, you will notice that villages are still spaced out from one another, some spread over the hilltops and some spilling down the slopes. The church building with the bulbous dome and high stee- ple is notorious in the villages' skyline, and it often stands out from the other buildings and houses like a mother hen atop its brood of chickens. In many localities, you will also stumble upon chapels. Stopping for a coffee at a village square café' will bring you face-to-face with the locals. Although Gozitans lead a m o d e r n way of life, many are still deep- ly tied to the village feast, an annual celebration when the community celebrates its pa- tron saint. Gozo has a rich cultural cal- endar that highlights many different aspects of rural life. Some villages hold annual fes- tivals highlighting products such as wine, olive oil, honey, and other preserves like olives, capers, sun-dried tomatoes, local jams, and liqueurs. Vis- iting an eco-farm and its fruit orchards, a sheep farm or a winery is an enriching venture. Recently, Gozo's traditional cuisine has been the recipient of an award from the Interna- tional Institute of Gastronomy, Arts, Culture, and Tourism in the European Region of Gas- tronomy category at the Food Film Menu 2024. For a com- plete rural experience, indulg- ing in the Gozitan gastronom- ic experience is vital. Ensure you do not miss out on visiting a local bakery and asking for the typical 'ftira'. Gozo's rural vibe is a mosaic, further enriched through var- ious crafts and skills that are nowadays considered funda- mental to sustainable tour- ism. Watch artisans at Ta' Dbieġi Crafts Village working on handmade crafts like glass blowing, pottery, loom weav- ing and lacemaking. A visit to the salt pans areas along the northern coast of Gozo will bring you face-to-face with the sea salt harvesting indus- try, but as you explore Gozo, you might stumble upon other artisans at work in their work- shops. Besides the fun, educational, and inspiring experience a ru- ral holiday offers, Gozo's rural getaway is also about rejuve- nation and wellness. Relax- ing and unwinding at a coun- tryside retreat benefits body, mind, and spirit. Many farm- steads have been renovated in- to comfortable holiday homes. Alternatively, you can seek out a luxurious hotel with com- plete spa facilities. Whether you're here alone, with your partner, or with your family, Gozo's identity is essential- ly rural at its core, and this guarantees a wholesome and charming holiday focused on the outdoors, away from the fast-paced world. Hiking and cycling are perfect ways to explore the island's rural beauty. Is-Salvatur and the surrounding countryside (Photo by Kevin White)