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| Blue hole, Dwejra Bay Gozo Island |
Collaborative post by another author
Why Every Parent Deserves a Break
Let’s be honest—parenting is a full-contact sport. Between school runs, snack negotiations and the never-ending “but why?” questions, sometimes the idea of a peaceful getaway feels like a fantasy. But what if I told you there’s a place where you can swap the chaos for sun, sea, and just a little bit of adventure? Enter Gozo, Malta’s little gem, reachable in under 45 minutes from the mainland with Gozo highspeed. Yes, that’s less time than it takes to convince a toddler to put on their shoes!
Getting to Gozo Without the Drama
If you’ve ever travelled with kids, you know that speed is everything. Long waits lead to boredom and boredom leads to mischief (or meltdowns, sometimes both). That’s why the Gozo highspeed ferry is an absolute game-changer for parents. No long queues, no dragging suitcases through endless terminals—just a smooth, quick ride across the sea.
| Travel Option | Duration | Kid Friendly? | Stress Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gozo Highspeed Ferry | 45 minutes | Yes, plenty of space and fresh air | Low |
| Traditional Ferry | 90 minutes | Can get crowded | Moderate |
| Private Boat | Varies | Fun, but pricey | Depends on budget |
What to Do in Gozo (That Won’t Make You Wish You Stayed Home)
Once you step off the ferry, Gozo welcomes you with open arms and stunning scenery. But let’s get real—if you’re travelling with kids, you need activities that are fun, easy and won’t result in a tantrum (yours or theirs). Here are some parent-approved picks:
1. Beach Bliss at Ramla Bay
Perfect for little ones who love digging in the sand while you actually sit down for five minutes. The shallow waters mean less worry and the golden beach makes for great holiday snaps (if you can get them to stand still). If you're feeling adventurous, you can explore the nearby Calypso Cave, which is said to be the inspiration for Homer’s Odyssey.
2. A Visit to the Citadel
This medieval fortress in Victoria offers breathtaking views and plenty of space for kids to run around pretending they’re knights. Plus, the climb up will burn off some of that boundless energy. The Citadel also has museums inside, offering a glimpse into Gozo’s history—perfect for those who want a bit of education with their sightseeing.
3. Gozo’s Playgrounds and Parks
If your kids need a good run-around, check out Villa Rundle Gardens—a green oasis where they can stretch their legs, and you can sip a much-needed coffee. The gardens are well-maintained and provide a quiet place to recharge before heading out for more adventures.
4. Boat Trip to the Blue Lagoon
Yes, it’s touristy, but there’s a reason for that—it’s absolutely stunning. Just pack plenty of snacks and be ready to bribe them with ice cream for good behavior. The crystal-clear waters and shallow swimming areas make it an excellent spot for families.
5. Exploring Gozo’s Traditional Villages
Gozo isn’t just about beaches and cliffs. The island is dotted with charming villages where you can get a taste of local life. Stop by Xagħra for a mix of history and culture, including the Ġgantija Temples, some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world.
6. Trying Local Delicacies
Gozo has its own culinary specialties and no trip is complete without sampling local dishes. Look out for ftira, a traditional Gozitan pizza-like bread, and pastizzi, flaky pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas. And of course, a visit to a local dairy farm for fresh ġbejna cheese is a must!
7. Visit Ta’ Pinu Basilica
Even if you’re not religious, the stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings of Ta’ Pinu Basilica make it worth a visit. The panoramic views from here are breathtaking, making it a great place to reflect and take in Gozo’s natural beauty.
8. Discovering Dwejra Bay
While the famous Azure Window may have collapsed, Dwejra Bay is still an incredible place to visit. You can take a boat tour through the sea caves, visit the Blue Hole (a popular diving site), or simply relax and enjoy the rugged coastline.
The Perfect Parent Getaway
Whether you’re escaping for a weekend or just a day trip from Malta, Gozo offers the ultimate balance of relaxation and adventure. The key to making the most of your trip is to keep things flexible—after all, kids and strict schedules don’t always mix. But with plenty of activities to choose from, you’ll find that Gozo has something for everyone, even the pickiest little travelers.
And with the Gozo highspeed ferry making travel a breeze, there’s really no excuse not to plan that much-needed break. Because let’s face it—sometimes, even superheroes (AKA parents) need a holiday!
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