Villa Happy

Gozo means joy and a visit to Malta’s smaller, quieter, and greener sister should bring exactly that! Separated by 5km of sea and taking 1.5 to 2 hours from Malta Airport, Gozo is connected by frequent ferry services from Cirkewwa Port on the North side of Malta and fast boats from Malta’s capital city, Valetta.

Villa Happy is in an area of natural beauty, and Sannat is the gateway to the Ta’ Cenc plateau and Cliffs which is Gozo’s primary birding site. The tiny village has mini market to pick up essentials and a handful of restaurants and bars where you can watch the world go by.

Gozo is a historical mystical Island with dramatic scenery which is believed to have been the Isle of Calypso in Homer’s Odyssey.

The property is a short drive from the historical capital city of Victoria and rising above it, the Citadel, which is visible from almost all the island. The ancient fortified town has witnessed many historical moments yet has stood the test of time and is rich in history with the magnificent baroque Cathedral of Gozo, dungeons, battlements and museums to visit. Set on one of the most central hilltops on the island you will find amazing views in all directions.

Victoria has plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from and is home to Gozo’s only shopping Mall. There is a daily bustling market. Don’t leave Victoria without sampling pastizzi, Malta’s best-loved snack!

Gozo is blessed with some beautiful sandy beaches, many still undeveloped, and is surrounded by some of the cleanest waters in the Mediterranean. Ramla Bay is the largest beach on the Island, Nestled amongst unspoilt countryside with a dramatic coastline, the long, wide beach has a reddish hue next to shallow clear waters and is a glorious place to swim, snorkel, play games or just laze in the sun.

Dwejra Bay is only a short drive away and is a magical place with its dramatic coastal formations and sea spilling over the rocks. It’s an enthralling experience to swim in the stunning deep sea of the bay, or in the foamy waters around the Blue Hole which is a world renowned diving site. Other attractions at the bay are Fungus Rock, a 60-metre-high rock feature!

Foodies will be happy as Gozo offers some of the best restaurants of the Maltese Islands. There are wonderful seafood restaurants in Xlendi Bay and Mgarr Harbour is the place to sample fine dining.

A delightful way to sample local cuisine and wines is to visit Ta’Mena in Xaghra. Ta’Mena produces DOK wines, virgin olive oil, sweet tomato paste, Jams, liqueurs and organises wonderful food tastings and tours of the vineyards.

Read more about Gozo

Experience the diverse coastline, rich history and stunning landscapes of this beautiful island, often referred to as the quieter little sister of Malta. Gozo is reached by ferry from Cirkewwa, the northernmost point of Malta, or from Valletta’s port on a highspeed ferry service to Mgarr.

Although Gozo is a small island, there is so much to see and do whether you are seeking sunny beaches and snorkelling spots or hoping to learn about Gozo’s cultural heritage and rich history. The gastronomic scene will also excite you with a wealth of delicious local products. Try the traditional ftira usually baked in a wood-fired oven, served with Gozitan cheese or anchovies, possibly accompanied by a glass of wine produced from vines by the sea or craft beer inspired by the island.

Crystal-clear water will draw you to Gozo’s array of beaches from the wild yet popular Ramla Bay, so loved for its red-hued sand and natural surroundings, to the remote gorge at Wied il-Ghasri reached via a staircase cut into the cliffs. What’s more, the island attracts divers from across the world who come to experience some of Europe’s finest diving sites.

Outdoor adventurists will adore the range of cycling and biking trails, walking paths, horse-riding opportunities and watersports. Meanwhile, boat trips allow you to appreciate Gozo from a different point of view and visit yet more spectacular attractions including the little island of Comino and its Blue Lagoon.   

Step back in time as you explore the fortified city, Cittadella, with its baroque cathedral and museums, before heading to the pre-historic Ġgantija Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. To soak up yet more culture, spend time in the historic village of Xewkija with its magnificent limestone church and iconic dome.       

When planning your luxury getaway on the island, bear in mind that Gozo is a delightful destination to enjoy throughout the seasons. Bask in the mild winter sunshine, hike through the spring flowers, embrace vibrant summer festivities or swim in the warm turquoise sea as autumn gently approaches.