It’s well known that Gozo is a sun-worshipper’s paradise in the hot summer months. But did you know that thanks to its mild Mediterranean winters, Gozo has a lot to offer visitors from October to May?
So, if you’re looking for a winter getaway with a difference, or a fun and healthy family activity in the February school holidays (average temperatures on Gozo during February are around 17C) – why not get on your bike and head to the picturesque and safe roads and tracks on Gozo for a cycling holiday?
Cycling in a group can be fun on Gozo. Photo credit: cyclemaltandgozo.com
Cycling holidays have become enormously popular in recent years, reflecting the upsurge in cycling for leisure and commuting. According to British Cycling more than two million people in the UK now cycle at least once a week and this trend is being seen right across Europe. It’s good for your health, good for the environment and, and suitable for all ages – you don’t have to be a Laura Trott, or Bradley Wiggins to enjoy a spin on two wheels.
One of the wonderful things about cycling in Gozo is that it’s a great way to explore all 67 km sq (26 square miles) of the island. You can choose how far you go in a day and can stop to sightsee whenever you like.
But don’t worry – you don’t have to bring your own bikes! If you’re booking your holiday on Gozo with Baron Holiday Homes, you can click here and we’d be delighted to help you rent mountain bikes – we can even deliver rental bikes to our guests’ front door!
Alternatively, we can put you in touch with one of our trusted local partner organisations who offer a range of guided cycle tours suited for all ages and ability, and which provide an insight into the cultural heritage of the island.
Enjoying the view while cycling on Gozo. Photo credit: bikenewportbeach.org
Range of cycling routes on Gozo
Gozo offers a range of different great cycling experiences – from gentle winding country roads, picturesque villages, and old alleyways, to more strenuous off-road coastal and inland tracks which offer a physical challenge to more experienced cyclists.
Whichever route you take you’re never too far from a local cafe, bar or restaurant and just about everywhere on the island offers great views of Gozo’s beautiful green countryside, baroque churches, and dramatic coastline.
Gozo also now has a new cycle route that goes all the way round the island – simply follow the signs for the SIBIT (Sustainable Interregional Bike Tourism) project. This comprises a network of cycle routes run jointly by the Maltese islands and Sicily. Gozo’s SIBIT routes take in most of the island’s main landmarks and 14 villages.
Self-guided cycling tours of Gozo
Tackling a coastal track at the Xwejni salt pans, Gozo. Photo credit: visitgozo.com
If you are planning to explore Gozo under your own steam while you are on holiday you might find the ebook Cycling in Gozo, published by GreatCyclingMalta.com, and available to download for €6, to be helpful. The book comprises five suggested routes and is packed with fascinating details on Gozo’s history, culture and natural environment. You can get a taste of the ebook content here.
For a personal account of a weekend cycling around Gozo, check out this blog post by Goatsontheroad.com.
Challenging cycling on Gozo
As well as catering for cycling as a holiday activity, Gozo also offers the chance for endurance sports fanatics to tackle a seriously challenging route. Every year in May sees the increasingly popular Gozo Trail Run event on Gozo. This offers runners a choice of 55km and 21 km distances and cycling enthusiasts can also tackle the same coast-hugging route via the Gozo MTB (mountain bike) Challenge.
This short video clip gives you a bikes-eye view of a section of the MTB trail:
The Gozo Trail Run and the MTB Challenge is scheduled for Saturday 6 May 2017, starting at Bethlehem Square in Ghajnsielem. In 2016 competitors from more than 20 countries participated in the races, which are rapidly becoming an international attraction for Gozo.
Ask us for help
Baron Holiday Homes is happy to organise bicycle hire, cycle tours of Gozo and many other special activities for our guests, including connecting you with trusted local partner organisations. Just get in touch and we’ll tell you all you need to know about what’s available. We recommend that helmets are worn on all bike trails and guidance can be given as to the suitability of each bike route for children.
Posted in Activity, Adventure, Cycling, Family, Fun, Things to do
View all blog posts