Mgarr Harbour, Gozo: Your Visit’s Starting Point
Your journey to the Island of Gozo begins when you set foot at Mgarr Harbour. We're here to tell you that it's not just a transit point but a destination, ready to be discovered once you arrive or at the end of your visit.
In this article, we'll unveil why you should explore this port village. From panoramic views to historical landmarks, there's plenty of experience waiting for you at Mgarr Harbour. Discover how you can maximise the advantages of your visit by engaging yourself in the charm and attractions this port offers.
Where is Mgarr Gozo Harbour
Upon your arrival in Gozo, you'll find yourself at the southeastern Mgarr Harbour, the first point of entry from Malta. This harbour is situated between the villages of Qala and Ghajnsielem on the southeast coast of Gozo.
How to Reach Mgarr Harbour
Whether taking the Ferry from Cirkewwa, Malta or the Gozo fast ferry from the Grand Harbour in Valletta, Malta, your journey will take you to the terminal in Mgarr in less than 45 minutes.
Access to transport is convenient for reaching Mgarr, with bus number 301 and bus number 323.
Driving to the harbour and securing parking is hassle-free with navigation apps such as Google Maps or Waze. Additionally, taxi and cab services are readily available across the island, providing an excellent option.
Ferry Terminal
The ferry terminal houses various ferry services, including Gozo Channel Ferry, Gozo Fast Ferry, and private companies like Yippee Malta. For your convenience, you'll find restrooms, dining options, and an information centre.
Things to do in Mgarr Gozo
Marina Promenade
Take a stroll along the Mgarr Marina Promenade to savour the beauty of the surrounding landscape, allowing you to appreciate the tranquil surroundings of the Marina and offering the perfect opportunity to relax on the wooden benches.
Dghajsa Tal-Latini
The "Dghajsa Tal-Latini", also known as "The Latins Boat," represents the last surviving traditional Gozitan boat that once operated the ferry route between Malta and Gozo in the era predating steam-powered vessels until the 1970s.
The Tragedy Monument
Explore the 1948 Tragedy Monument, a memorial commemorating a maritime tragedy on October 30, 1948. It was a heart-wrenching event in which Gozo lost 23 lives, and it was attributed to severe weather conditions.
Enjoy a Terrace Meal
Enjoy a lovely terrace meal or savour a refreshing drink at Gleneagles Bar, just a few steps from the Ferry Terminal. This well-known establishment on the Maltese islands has been under the masterful two brothers since the early 1960s, providing a view of the Mediterranean Sea from its fantastic terrace. The atmosphere at Gleneagles Bar exudes a charming local touch, with Gozitan tiles and history-adorned walls, making you feel right at home.
Beaches
When you're in Mgarr, make the most of the panoramic (but secluded) Gorgun Beach or enjoy a refreshing swim at Zewwieqa Bay, easily accessible via a convenient wooden bridge.
Lourdes Chapel
You can easily reach the Lourdes Chapel on foot, just a 10-minute stroll from the Harbour or the village of Ghajnsielem. The Chapel is devoted to Our Lady of Lourdes and provides spectacular views of the Harbour, making it one of the most important landmarks of Mgarr Harbour.
The Coastal Walk to Ix-Xatt L-Ahmar
One of the most beloved coastal walks among locals is the 15-minute leisurely hike spanning 1.2km to Ix-Xatt L-Ahmar.
An Extraordinary Day Tour with Yippee Tours
Are you tight on time, or would you like to make the most of your day? Consider one of the day tours with Yippee Malta that are all-inclusive to see Gozo in a single day, assuring you get the most out of your visit.
But what’s included? Your adventure starts and ends at the Mgarr Harbour, where you'll discover Comino and the Blue Lagoon. You'll enjoy a traditional Gozitan lunch with local wine during your tour. Yippee Tours offers diverse options, including Gozo Quad Bike tours and Tuk Tuk tours, allowing you to explore iconic spots like Xewkija Rotunda, Tal-Mixta cave, The Sanap Cliffs, The Citadel, Wied il-Mielah Window, Dwejra Bay, Xwejni Salt Pans, Xlendi Bay, and Marsalforn Bay.
Yippee Tours is well-known for delivering a unique experience with state-of-the-art 570cc Quad Bikes (ATV) and colourful Tuk Tuks with typical Gozitan designs and colours, boasting excellent reviews with a multilingual team of experts catering to couples, friends, and families.
History of Mgarr Harbour
The town of Mgarr grew around a shallow harbour and established its fishing and ferry operations by 1241. Despite slow development in the surrounding area over centuries, the port was rebuilt for €9.3 million, with a seven-year construction process started in 2001, leading to the terminal's opening in February 2008. Now, with facilities for 600 passengers and 200 cars, the redesigned port minimises its visual impact on the surrounding landscape.
Author: Norbert Bezzina
