Winning the TTG Top 50 Award secured me an automatic spot with the Malta Tourism Authority to join their Malta Academy 2024 educational trip. Having never visited Malta before, I was excited to explore this captivating destination.
Over four days and three nights, I embarked on a whirlwind adventure to Gozo, Malta’s enchanting sister island, with a quick dip into the vibrant Maltese capital, Valletta.
The journey began at Heathrow, where I met up with a group of fellow agents. After a breezy three-hour flight and a 45-minute transfer to Ċirkewwa, Malta’s northernmost point, we boarded the Gozo ferry. The crossing to Imgarr Harbour, Gozo’s port, took just 25 minutes, with ferries running every half hour, day and night.
The Hamlet
We stayed at The Hamlet, a perfectly situated countryside retreat featuring a collection of charming farmhouses, each with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, the village of Gharb and the beautiful Ta' Pinu Church.
Each farmhouse was fully equipped with a kitchen, lounge area, outdoor seating, utility room with a washing machine and separate bedrooms - some with en suites. To top it off, each farmhouse had its own pool, either indoor or outdoor.
While staying here, having a car is beneficial for exploring, though driving on the same side as in the UK makes it easy to get around.
We had some leisure time after our arrival to unwind and get to know our fellow housemates over a glass of Maltese wine, thoughtfully provided in a food hamper in each room.
The evening set a wonderful tone for the days ahead, with a dinner hosted by the Malta Tourism Authority at the nearby Peppina. The meal featured a generous variety of shared courses and free-flowing wine, making it a night to remember.
Gozo
Our time in Gozo was filled with adventure and a deep dive into the island’s cultural and natural treasures.
Gozo Adventures provided fantastic taster sessions of boccia ball, segway riding, archery and abseiling (though our group wisely decided to skip the abseiling!). This eco-friendly company also offers activities like biking, climbing, hiking and sea kayaking. I thoroughly enjoyed all the experiences, especially the segway ride.
Dwejra, with its dramatic coastal formations, was breathtaking. You can swim in the deep blue sea of the bay, in the tranquil shallows of the inland sea or in the foamy waters around the Blue Hole - one of Gozo’s top dive sites.
We also enjoyed a boat trip to some of Gozo’s most stunning swimming spots, basking in the sun and crystal-clear waters. The Blue Grotto, a complex of seven caves along the southern coast, was mesmerising.
A highlight was visiting the Ġgantija temples, the oldest of Malta’s megalithic temples, even older than the pyramids of Egypt. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these ancient structures are a remarkable archaeological landscape; and learning about their incredible history was truly astonishing.
Valletta
After bidding farewell to Gozo, we spent our final day exploring Malta’s historic capital, Valletta. Highlights included the Upper Barrakka Lift, offering breathtaking views and a quick route to the city centre, and a guided tour of St John’s Co-Cathedral, famed for its opulent interior and Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Beheading of St John.
Culinary Highlights
Pastizzi
Pastizzi, a beloved traditional Maltese pastry, is filled with either ricotta or curried peas. I had the pleasure of enjoying one in Independence Square, Victoria - an absolute treat!
one80 Kitchen at Mgarr Yacht Marina, Gozo
This restaurant, located right at the ferry terminal, combined a fantastic setting with equally fantastic food. The set menu was a true taste sensation!
Ta’ Philip, Gozo
A fantastic spot known for its traditional Gozitan dishes, popular with locals. We began with a cooking demonstration, learning to prepare a classic dish with a modern twist.
Chef Philip then challenged us with an inter-farmhouse competition to create the best-stuffed zucchini. He even visited our houses to judge the dishes before returning to the restaurant. The results were revealed during a sumptuous dinner later that evening (sadly, I didn’t win!).
Al Sale, Victoria Square, Xaghra, Gozo
A prestigious Michelin-starred restaurant, renowned for its locally sourced ingredients and exquisite offerings of fresh Gozo seafood and quality meats. The set menu was simply delicious.
Caffe Cordina, Valletta
Founded in 1837, Caffe Cordina is a historic family-run business located in a stunning palazzo. Our trip concluded perfectly with a delightful lunch here.
My time with Malta Academy 2024 was truly enriching. Gozo’s unique blend of adventure, gastronomy, culture and natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable getaway. I can’t wait to help you discover the magic of Gozo for yourselves.
A special thanks to Visit Malta, Frank’s Garage Ltd and Zarb Chauffeur Ltd for expertly transporting us around Gozo and Malta.
