Malta & Gozo Hotels & Resorts

Malta is actually an archipelago and its two smaller inhabited islands, Gozo and Comino, have distinctive personalities that are well worth discovering. See Gozo at its authentic self on a 4x4 safari that will take you to the heart of its unspoiled rural landscapes, along winding lanes and off-road tracks. The jam-packed itinerary includes visits to a host of sites, from architectural marvels such as the charming fortified capital, Victoria, to natural wonders including caves, salt pans and an inland sea. From here, you’ll take to the water for a sailing trip around diminutive Comino, whose natural landscapes make it a popular day-trip destination for the Maltese as well as foreign visitors. You’ll pause to swim and snorkel in the limpid waters of the famous Blue Lagoon, explore the caves and bays around the island, and fit in another swim-and-snorkel session before returning to the mainland.

• Duration: full day
• Time: 10am to 5pm
• Departs on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday
• Operates May to Oct only
• Group experience

Good to know
There’s a freshwater shower on board the boat, so you won’t have to sail home with salt-encrusted hair.

A tuk tuk may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Gozo, but these nippy little open-sided vehicles turn out to be perfect for exploring its enchanting landscapes and historic sights. You’ll spend a happy day zipping along quiet lanes, visiting a dizzying range of highlights. When it comes to natural wonders, there are rock formations created the same way as the now-vanished Azure Window, sweeps of red-sand beach and caves that inspired Homer - not to mention several viewpoints with panoramas to die for. As for the manmade attractions, there are historic churches of all sizes, signal towers and salt pans, plus the delightful capital, Victoria, an ancient fortified city perched on a rocky outcrop in the heart of the island. Many of the places on the itinerary are not accessible on mainstream tours or by public transport, so this is a fabulous way to get under the skin of this captivating island.

• Duration: full day
• Time: 10.30am to 4.30pm
• Monday to Saturday departures
• Operates April to December
• Group experience

Good to know
Lunch is not included, but there’s a 45-minute stop at Marsalforn Bay where there are plenty of small restaurants and cafés.