port
Mgarr (Victoria), Gozo, Malta
activityLevel
Strenuous Activity
excursionType
All
wheelchairAccessible
No
startingAtPrice
$160
minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
duration
Approximately 4 Hours
mealsIncluded
Meals included
The small island of Gozo is an entirely unique destination with a huge historical footprint. It has open spaces, magical seascapes, and some of the oldest freestanding man-made structures in the world. One of the best ways to discover all of this is by open-top 4x4 vehicle.
Dramatic photo opportunities abound as you journey through the hilltop villages of Qala and Gozo's easternmost village, Nadur. The latter is home to many emigrants from the USA and is good-naturedly nicknamed 'the 51st state'.
Next is lively Xaghra, whose name means 'wilderness'. Oddly, it is in fact Gozo's largest town and boasts a very pleasant atmosphere. It also the proud custodian of Ggantija -- one of the world's oldest and most extraordinary temple buildings. Cross the Ramla Valley and head up to viewing platform at Calypso's Cave to take in the panoramic view over Gozo's most beautiful beach, Ramla Bay meaning literally the Red Sand with the white Madonna shining against the red sand and the dark line of the Knights' defensive reef running through the blue sea.
At Dwejra, stop and take in the view of the natural seascapes. Spot Fungus Rock - it is said that the fungus which grows on the rock has medicinal qualities and was used by the Knights of St John. They valued the fungus so highly that anyone caught stealing it was sentenced to death or, worse, to a lifetime of rowing the Knights' galleys.
From here, head to the north coast along small bumpy roads until you reach the centuries-old saltpans at Xwejni. This formed part of the island’s first industry when salt was bartering currency for goods not available locally. They make a splendid backdrop for photos. Depending on the season, you may even meet the family that has been working the pans for more than 40 years. They are happy to chat if they are not busy harvesting.
You will stop in Gozo's capital, Victoria, for some free time before returning to the pier.
Please note: The vehicles used for this tour are basic Maruti 4x4s, which are open-top. They are not water- or air-tight. Not suitable for guests with back conditions. This is a non-guided tour. Due to vehicle capacity and configuration, guests in larger groups may be separated.