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The Gozo coastal walk from Xwejni Bay to Ghasri Valley isn’t just a path. It’s a trip through stunning Gozo scenes. This 5 km round trip is easy and perfect for nature lovers.
Since 2011, I’ve lived in Malta and explored every bit of it. The Gozo coast, with its salt pans and cliffs, is my top pick. The views of the Mediterranean there are amazing.
Each step on this walk shows you a scene worth capturing. You can even swim in the sea. It’s nature at its best.
Want to see Gozo’s coast? This post will guide you. Discover Gozo’s hidden spots with me.
- Distance: 4.54 km
- Walking Time: 1 h 10 mins
- Level: Easy
- Uphill: 40 m
- Downhill: 40 m
- Highest Point: 30 m
Best time to go: anytime, but avoid mid-day heat between June and September
Gozo Coastal Walk Map
This hike follows Gozo’s northern coastline and it passes through limestone cliffs, hidden bays, salt pans till it reaches canyon-like Ghasri valley.
Gozo Coastal Walk Starting Point: Xwejni Bay
The hike starts in Xwejni Bay, known as Il-Bajja tax-Xwejni, in Maltese. The bay is in the north of Gozo, close to the towns of Zebbug and Marsalforn.
There is a shallow pebbled beach, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. On the western side of the bay, there is an underwater double arch and a cave famous for scuba diving.
Salt Pans and Billinghurst Cave
From Xwejni Bay, head north, and you will soon see the salt pans. The salt pans in Gozo are unlike anything you will see anywhere else. They are the result of a centuries-old traditional process for harvesting salt.
The pans are split into rectangular pools filled with seawater. The water is then left to evaporate using the sun’s heat. Salt harvesting starts in April and lasts till August.
Not only are the salt pans a fascinating part of the island’s history, but they also look beautiful. They glisten in the sunshine, creating a moon-like landscape.
Continue the Gozo coastal walk by following the road or head down and walk on the coast. When walking on the limestone, look under your foot to see different fossils. Fossils are the traces of plants and animals from a distant past. Limestone is almost entirely made of fossils. On this hike, you can find shells but also sea urchin fossils.
After 20 mins walking from Xwejni Bay, you will see a hidden bay called Billinghurst Cave. It is an amazing deep cave, a fantastic spot for diving, swimming and snorkelling.
But what makes it unique is the deep blue colours and surrounding underwater caves. The blue is particularly vivid when the sun is out and the sea is calm.
If you walk during the summer, I recommend having a quick dip. But don’t swim in rough seas. The rocks are very sharp, so it gets quite dangerous.
Keep walking along the coastline till it starts turning inwards. Then, the cliffs will become higher, reaching 30 meters above sea level.
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Gozo Coastal Walk Landmark: The Għasri Valley
While looking inland you will see a Ta’ Ġurdan Lighthouse. Ta’ Ġurdan Lighthouse is 161 metres above sea level.
Construction of the lighthouse commenced in 1851 when the region was under British rule. It was built to meet the requirements of the growing maritime traffic in the vicinity. The lighthouse became operational on October 15, 1853.
The lighthouse had 21 oil lamps, seven lamps on each of its three sides. The brass reflectors were silver-plated. The light could be seen 38 miles from the coast.
After 5 minutes of hiking inland, you will reach a small parking area. It’s on the top of the cliffs surrounding the sea canyon. Head down the stairs on your left to Wied il-Għasri. This is our end point of the hike before we turn back.
Wied il-Għasri Valley is a gorge-like valley surrounded by high limestone walls. It is known for its tiny pebbly beach, which is 300 metres away from the sea.
It’s a quiet bathing area beloved by swimmers, snorkelers, and divers. It is not difficult to understand why it is so popular. The gorge is lengthy and slender, making the waters tranquil. On windy days, this place is especially remarkable. You can listen to the noise of the sea crashing against the high cliffs.
After you enjoy the Wied il-Għasri Valley, go up the stairs and continue your Gozo coastal walk back to Xwejni Bay in the same way. If you still have time and energy, you can walk to Wied il Mielah Arch, a few kilometres away. Check my trekking guide on how to get there.
It is a must-do for nature lovers and adventurers. So, don’t skip it. You will be amazed by the beauty of the sea, cliffs and the surrounding nature.
Here are some more Gozo places to visit and hiking trails you should check out:
- Hike from the Mgarr Harbour to Xlendi
- Hike to Wied il-Mielah Arch
- Ghasri Valley guide
- Mgarr Ix-Xini – insider tips
- A guide to Xlendi town and its surroundings
- A hike from Mgarr Harbour to Hondoq Bay
If you’re planning your vacation and want to be sure you don’t miss out on the best sites, check out our exclusive Malta guide for a curated list of must-visit attractions and things to do.
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2 comments
Is this 1 hr 40 one way, or there and back? Thanks
Hello! The journey to and from there takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes on foot. Plan for a total of around 2 hours, including breaks and moments for taking photos.