Experience Gozo like a local. Learn everything you need to know about the quirky village of Qala.

Getting to Qala

Qala is one of the oldest villages on Gozo Island, located in the easternmost part of the island. Famous for its buzzy square, which offers a small selection of bars and restaurants, and entertainment through the summer months. It is also minutes from the wonderful Hondoq Bay Beach, a stunning, untouched oasis with views over the channel, Comino’s Blue Lagoon, and Malta. Qala takes just 5 minutes from the Gozo Ferry Terminal by car and is well connected by bus. Take route 303 from the ferry or from Victoria the other way.

Staying In Qala

Staying in Qala makes sense if you love being able to walk along the cliffs, taking in picturesque sea views, and lapping up the atmosphere of a traditional village square, filled with locals and tourists alike. Qala has a particular feel and unites creatives, musicians and food lovers in one quirky, lovely place. There are plenty of B&Bs in the area, see our favourites below.

Beaches 

If you are in Qala, head to Ħondoq ir-Rummien. A small sandy and pebbly beach with crystal clear waters and a fabulous beach cafe and kiosk. It is located at the bottom of a winding, steep hil,l which may be a lot for many, but the rewards of walking are plenty when you drink in the views over the channel. By car during the summer, it’s best to park on the hill as the car park fills up. Discover the ultimate list of Gozo’s beaches here.

The Gallery

Eat In Qala

Breakfast

From May to October, head to Hondoq to the beach cafe and sample their breakfast and brunch menu, which includes everything from healthy fresh smoothies to an indulgent English breakfast. They also serve the most delicious and slightly naughty iced coffee.

Lunch

Head to D Bar for lunch, which sits adjacent to the church on the square – perfect for people-watching. A super-established local eatery, really popular with the locals. The menu is filled with homemade goodies, and their steaks are to die for.

Dinner

For dinner, head to Mulino. A modern, casual-dining restaurant located on the ground floor of Villa di Venti Boutique Hotel. Expect seasonal fare cooked brilliantly, the odd amuse bouche, which are always memorable and a super wine list.

Things To Do And See In Qala

Hire a Segway

Qala boasts some of the best scenery on the island, so taking to the streets on a Segway is the best way to experience it. Sunrise is a great time to do this tour as the sun rises in front of your eyes on this corner of Gozo, and you will be guided to the perfect viewing spots.

Take A Boat Trip To Comino

Hire a self-drive boat or take a tour from Gozo to Comino from Hondoq Beach with Joyride Watersports. For just €10, they will zip you over to the Blue Lagoon to explore, swim, snorkel and enjoy a drink or a snack, then pick you up when you are ready to return.

Don’t miss these 5 things to see and do in Qala

1. Hire a quad for the afternoon and zip around the island.
2. Visit the old bakery and taste some of the best freshly baked bread on the island.
3. Walk to the Windmill.
4. Hike your way around the cliff edges – you will find numerous trails if you look hard enough.
5. Go to Zeppi’s on a Sunday night for live jamming.
6. Take a yoga class in Ta Dar Zeppi’s B&B.
7. Check out the walls in the Stoneage Bar – they are quite something!

Author: GITH