In today’s stressful lifestyle, taking time to wind down and just be has become an absolute necessity. For those who wish to switch off and regenerate, Gozo is the place to be.

Historically, the Island has always been distinct from mainland Malta; different milestones, traditions, happenings and topography have distinguished the Island both on a national scale and as a travel destination. A lower population density and the slower process of urbanisation have contributed to conserving the Island’s characteristic aura, which wins over the traveller who is looking to slow down.

Wherever you look, the sea is never more than a stone’s throw away and it’s Gozo’s remarkable coastline that stimulates the imagination so strongly: tiny creeks, beaches of red sand, turquoise bays, stretches of limestone criss-crossed with tiny saltpans and majestic high cliffs falling in a sheer drop into the clear waters.

While there are a variety of good hotels to choose from, Gozo offers the exclusive experience of farmhouse and villa renting. Most come with their private pool and the choices are attractive; opt for an authentic 400-year old restored farmhouse or for a stylishly rustic villa.

Farmhouse and villa holidays offer privacy as well as a home environment that can’t be achieved in hotels. Most of these properties are located in the villages, offering holidaymakers the opportunity to interact with the locals and live in rhythm of the Island – experiencing the village ambience with afternoon lulls, fresh produce, church celebrations and colourful local characters, who are always happy to welcome visitors to their villages.

Food and drink are a big part of daily life in Gozo. A hilly, fertile Island surrounded by the Mediterranean, it is in an excellent location for healthy and tasty produce.

There are a wide variety of restaurants that offer both fine dining as well as more casual eateries offering traditional food. Gozo is host to some of the best award-winning restaurants on the Islands and with picturesque views of harbours and bays, it’s easy to find a restaurant in a spectacular setting.

Restaurants abound in Rabat, Mgarr and in the fishing villages of Marsalforn and Xlendi.

Off-the-beaten track gastronomy jeep tours are available, including olive oil and wine tasting. In October, there is the Olive Oil Harvest Festival, ideal for those truly interested in gastronomy.

Village bars open early in the morning for the early risers who attend the first mass of the day and close fairly late at night, catering to the socialising needs of locals and visitors.

For those looking for some exercise or just wish to revive and relax, spa and wellness is available on a highly professional level. Gozo holds two of the Islands’ most popular and proficient spas, which are in constant upgrade, with state of the art equipment and highly qualified staff.

For those active holidaymakers who are seeking adventure and exploration, Gozo offers rugged landscape and a spectacular coastline. The Island’s terrain is ideal for walking and trekking, cycling and rock climbing. The coastline and surrounding waters offer opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, snorkelling, kayaking, fishing and diving.

There is some exceptional scuba diving in Gozo (with 11 diving schools) as a result of the calm waters, high visibility and diversity of underwater caves, wrecks and reefs. An incredible diving experience, the spectacular Blue Hole, beneath the Azure Window is a must for the diving lovers.

There are various ancient sites available to see in Gozo, but the most fascinating is Ggantija – the oldest freestanding temples in the world. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ggantija Temples are worth going to visit at least once.

Gozo offers various unspoilt bays, alcoves and sandy beaches that make for wonderful sunbathing or water sports.

To discover the true magic of swimming, diving and enjoying all the activities the sea has to offer, Comino is the Island that must be explored. The Island’s Blue Lagoon, with its safe bathing in bright turquoise waters, makes an idyllic day out by boat.

The Island is tiny in size, with just one hotel, but it is otherwise uninhabited and is surrounded by the most scintillating and transparent waters in the Mediterranean. A natural swimming pool, many snorkel, scuba dive and anchor their yachts for a day of swimming and relaxing.

In winter, Comino is great for walkers and photographers. Without urban areas or cars, there is no pollution or noise – just quiet and serenity.