Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1546525
11 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 11 SEPTEMBER 2026 CULTURE Exploring Gozo's countryside FEEL the breeze or the soothing rays of the sun on your skin, tune in to the sound of silence, and let the landscapes and seascapes in- spire you. Whether you consid- er yourself an athlete, hang with the moderately paced, or simply prefer the laid-back nature expe- rience, Gozo welcomes you with open arms. Adventure seekers will savour the quiet content- ment that follows the surge of exhilaration, while those seeking simply the calm will immediate- ly feel at home. Even families with young children will find the space to enjoy quality time to- gether in the open air. The Gozitan countryside opens the door to a mindful walking experience, where the senses take centre stage. Leaving the village centres and stepping closer to the coun- tryside offers a sense of rural immersion. Gozo's distinctive topography has dictated that the farmland be parcelled in- to terraced fields by dry-stone walls, forming what appear to be steps cascading down the hillsides. The first autumn rains bring a dense patchwork of green that spreads across the fields and spills onto the garigue. Seek out the wildflow- ers and plants and delight in the variety of greens and col- ours. It's a joy to discover the countryside's native blooms. The species you come across will depend on the terrain you are trekking, but dense patch- es of yellow cape sorrell will almost accompany you every- where! Gozo offers quiet mo- ments of birdwatching. As your footsteps fall softly on the rural paths, you might even notice the shrill call of wild birds, of- ten sounding a warning as you enter their territory. Exploring the open countryside is easy when following established routes. While wandering off the path will not necessarily lead you too far astray, it may take you to precious cultivated land, so mindful walking is en- couraged. Gozo offers several hiking paths around most villages, such as Għarb, Għasri, Qa- la, Xewkija and Xagħra. Each of these routes can be broken down into shorter laps that still let your mind wander and con- nect with nature. Sometimes connecting with nature is not only about movement, but about stillness. Sitting on a low stone wall, sketchbook in hand, camera ready, or simply letting your thoughts flow onto a jour- nal page is enriching. At other times, connection with nature can take another form, where yoga and mindful movement allow you to blend seamlessly with the surroundings, ground- ed by open skies and uninter- rupted horizons. The tranquil setting of Ta' Ċenċ and the San Dimitri area are two spots among many. The coast speaks a different language, tranquil and bathed in air slightly tinged with salt. The coastal paths in Gozo weave their way through crag- ged rocky outcrops, low-lying areas leading to coves and in- lets and steeper ridges and dra- matic cliff zones where land drops into sea. For an early morning muse, capture sunrise while trekking the eastern side of the island. Places like Xatt l-Aħmar, Ħondoq ir-Rummien and the area around San Blas provide a showstopping but gentle awakening vibe. Spots on the other side of Gozo, such as Xlendi, Wardija, and Dwe- jra, are popular sunset-watch- ing spots. Panoramic and magnificent views unfold from every vantage point. Beyond all this, Gozo offers a fascinating geological puzzle, with layers of sedimentary rock revealing themselves at different sites. A unique Gozitan coastal experi- ence is the saltpan zones along the coast of Xwejni. Though the saltpans are clearly man- made, echoing ancient tradi- tional salt harvesting, the area offers quiet, even meditative walks or drives along this nat- ural route. Between the countryside and coast lie many of Gozo's val- leys, akin to corridors running through the island as they carve their path to the sea. Gozo is al- so home to a variety of seclud- ed valleys. Some, such as Mar- salforn Valley, offer accessible and pleasant walking routes, while others seem to have been created to cater for the pas- sion of adrenaline-pumping adventurers. Valleys like the Mġarr ix-Xini and Dwejra of- fer a more adventurous edge, with the possibility of light climbing during exploration. Mġarr ix-Xini valley is a rugged gorge marked by gaping crevic- es in the cliff face that attracts the abseiling crowd. Similarly striking is the Xlendi Valley, which starts off with a charm- ing pastoral view and gradually spirals down into a more prim- itive landscape of smooth white cliff face enveloping what feels like a reed forest. Other dra- matic valleys, like Wied il-Mie- laħ and Wied il-Għasri, offer a different spectacle, ending abruptly at the sea and reveal- ing breathtaking coastal views. On the other hand, San Blas valley is a fruit-growing basin. The views are pleasant, but be prepared for a walk character- ised by a very steep descent. At Lunzjata, a valley close to Vic- toria, even families with a light pushchair can enjoy a beautiful walk. Lunzjata, originally a hunt- ing ground for the Knights of Malta, has a uniquely medieval character, with a spring that ir- rigates the fertile fields, a foun- tain used by farmers to wash their produce before taking it to market, and a historic chapel built into the cliff wall. While not always in season, the sea is a vital part of the natural experience. Outside the summer season, the emp- ty beaches and coves offer the luxury of solitude and clari- ty. A leisurely walk along the red shoreline of Ramla, a quick jog, or simply sitting down to gaze at the horizon while being lulled by the rhythmic waves rushing to shore, shifts per- spective and restores balance. Ramla is not the only beach; San Blas, Ħondoq ir-Rummien, Qbajjar, and certain parts of Marsalforn can also suit the mood. Some might seek a deep- er connection through a cold dip, weather permitting. Kay- aking opens another dimen- sion, allowing coastal explora- tion from the sea itself, while underwater diving unveils yet another dimension. In Gozo, the diving season runs from April to October, but some diving schools offer exclusive winter off-season diving stints. Gozo is about connecting with nature in a mosaic of mo- ments, each of which, wheth- er landlocked or sea-kissed, is about a simple gesture: taking a breath, stopping to pause, and gently reconnecting to your true self. Gozo offers several hiking paths around most villages, such as Gharb, Ghasri, Qala, Xewkija and Xaghra