Gozo is small, but it is not simple. If you stick to the obvious stops, you will still have a lovely time. You will also miss the bits that make the island feel like an insider’s place, the quiet corners where the landscape does its best work without an audience.

This is a shortlist of “you would not stumble here by accident” locations, plus practical notes so your day does not unravel on a hot bus stop with no water.

Before you go

Many of these places have limited shade, no facilities, and no lifeguards. Wear proper shoes, take water, and do not treat cliff edges like they are a photo studio. Wied il-Għasri in particular is known for steep steps and no services. 

1) Wied il-Għasri: The secret sea canyon

A narrow sea inlet carved into the coast, with a staircase down to a tiny pebbly “beach” wedged between rock walls. It feels like a hidden cut in the island. Go early or late, and only swim if the sea is calm. It is popular with divers and snorkellers because of the nearby caves. 

Do not expect cafés, toilets, or easy access. This is part of the deal.

2) Xwejni Salt Pans: The chequerboard coastline

Just past Qbajjar Bay, the coast turns into an extraordinary grid of rock-cut pans where sea salt has been produced for generations. It is one of those places that looks “designed”, but it is pure tradition carved into stone. The pans stretch for kilometres along the north coast, and the walking is simple if you keep your footing on uneven rock. 

Best time: golden hour, when the geometry pops and the sea goes metallic.

3) Ta’ Ċenċ Cliffs: Gozo’s quiet drama

These cliffs deliver the sort of wide-open, end-of-the-world feeling people expect from famous viewpoints, except with far fewer people. It is a strong sunset option, but also worth doing in daylight when you can see the layers of limestone and the drop properly. Stick to the paths and stay sensible near the edge.

4) San Dimitri Chapel: A tiny chapel, big atmosphere

This is Gozo at its most understated: a small rural chapel on a promontory outside Għarb, wrapped in myth and legend, and known as Gozo’s westernmost chapel. It is not a “pop in for ten seconds” stop. It is a slow one. Park, walk up, and let the quiet do its thing. 

If you like places with narrative attached, read the legend before you go. The setting makes more sense once you know the story. 

5) Wied il-Mielaħ Window: The natural arch that stayed standing

After the Azure Window collapsed in 2017, more people started seeking out Gozo’s other coastal arch. Wied il-Mielaħ is still in excellent shape, and it is relatively easy to reach by road. You can view it from above, or carefully make your way down for a closer look if conditions allow. 

This is a strong “pairing” with Wied il-Għasri and the salt pans if you are doing the north coast properly.

6) Mixta Cave: The Ramla Bay viewpoint people forget to do

Everyone knows Ramla Bay. Fewer people do the lookout that makes Ramla feel cinematic. Mixta Cave sits above the bay and opens into a wide view that looks unreal in the best way. It has become more popular in recent years, so timing matters. 

Tip: go early, take your photos, then go down to Ramla once the day warms up.

7) Mġarr ix-Xini: The tucked-away inlet with proper swim energy

This is a secluded bay set in a gorge, with clear water and a calmer feel than some of the more obvious spots. It has a real history too, including use as a harbour in the past. It is also known as a good swimming and diving location. 

If you want “quiet beach day” without going full remote, this is one of the safest bets.

A simple “Hidden Gozo” half-day route

If you want a realistic plan that does not involve zig-zagging the island:

1. Wied il-Għasri (early) 

2. Xwejni Salt Pans (walk and photos) 

3. Wied il-Mielaħ Window (late morning) 

4. Għarb lunch, then San Dimitri Chapel (late afternoon) 

Swap in Ta’ Ċenċ for sunset if you are on the south side.