In our last blog, we traced the path through lush valleys and walked down roads less travelled that took us past a medieval chapel and a British-era lighthouse. Since spring is the perfect time to explore the Gozitan countryside and its rugged face, we have put together another three hike ideas that will allow you to discover some of the island’s best-kept secrets.
Ta’ Għammar Hill: The Perfect Meditation Spot
Ta' Ghammar Hill, opposite Ta' Pinu Sanctuary. Photo: Baron Holiday Homes
Our first walk is inspired by the proximity of Holy Week and its importance to the Gozitan faithful. Located just opposite the Ta’ Pinu sanctuary in Għarb, Ta’ Għammar Hill is lined with imposing marble statues representing the stations of the cross. Even before these statues were erected in the 1980s, Ta’ Għammar had attracted local devotees, who would walk up the hill as an act of penance. The 14 statues were produced in Pietra Santa – also known as Italy’s city of marble, based on the designs of one of Gozo’s foremost sculptors, Alfred Camilleri Cauchi. It is important to note that the first statue, depicting the Last Supper, is found on the Ta’ Pinu church parvis.
While the uphill walk is no piece of cake, the peace and the views one can enjoy from the top certainly make up for the effort. From the peak, one can see the beautiful Ta’ Pinu sanctuary from a different perspective, the Ta’ Ġurdan Lighthouse in the distance, and swathes of soothing green countryside. Perhaps the most surprising thing about this hill is the large amphitheatre just across from the last statue, which is generally used for religious functions. Here, you can sit and catch your breath in preparation for the descent.
Sanap Cliffs: A Most Spectacular Sunset Experience
Sanap Cliffs offer some breathtaking views. Photo: Baron Holiday Homes
Sanap Cliffs are located on Gozo’s southern coastline, providing a front-row seat to watch the sun set into the sea. While the sheer drop into the sea is spectacular at any time of day, the late afternoon glow that lights up the cliff face as the sun goes down is particularly magical. The cliffs take their name from the word ‘senapa’ for mustard, which is said to have grown abundantly in the area in the past. Today, tufts of hardy indigenous vegetation that defy the unforgiving elements dot the rugged landscape.
The Sanap hike can start either from the small village of Munxar and end in Xlendi Bay, or vice-versa. Whichever starting point you choose, do not to miss the Xlendi watchtower along the way. Built in 1650 during the reign of Grand Master Lascaris, this is the oldest free-standing watchtower in Gozo, and recently underwent extensive restoration works.
Beneath the tower, some 103 metres below sea level, lies a treasure trove of Punic archaeological artefacts. The 67,000 m2 area was declared the world’s first underwater archaeological park in 2023, with sections of it being made accessible to technical divers. If you are not a technical, you can still learn more about this park by visiting the permanent exhibition housed inside the Xlendi Tower.
Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs: An Ecological Paradise
Sunset time is always a magical time to be at Ta' Cenc Cliffs. Photo: Baron Holiday Homes
Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs, which are also located on the island’s southern coast, can be reached from the village of Sannat. From here, one can see the village of Xewkija on the opposite side, with the beautiful Ta’ Ħanżira Valley separating the two villages.
At a height of 150 metres above sea level, Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs are the tallest in Gozo, and are home to rich biodiversity that has earned the area Natura 2000 status. Malta’s national yet rare flower, the magenta-coloured Widnet il-Baħar, is known to grow here, with its flowers typically blooming in May and June. This is not the only rare plant to call Ta’ Ċenċ home, but perhaps it is the most easily recognisable due to the flower’s distinctive colour. The area is also important as it supports a wide variety of bird life, most notably the largest colony of Cory’s Shearwaters on the Maltese Islands.
And if these weren’t good enough reasons to discover Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs, it is also worth noting the area’s archaeological significance due to the presence of criss-crossing cart ruts, the remains of l-Imramma Temple and the remains of three dolmens.
Brave hikers can venture on beyond Ta’ Ċenċ to reach Mġarr ix-Xini Bay, which is guarded by a watchtower built by the Knights in 1661. The bay also served as the filming location for the film By The Sea.
Posted in Activity, Adventure, Fun, Relaxation, Spring, Things to do, Walk
View all blog posts