Explore Xlendi Bay

The Xlendi reef is situated right in the middle of the bay, with the inner reef going around the headland at a maximum depth of 12 metres, whereas the outer reef extends underwater from the headland. Part of the outer reef forms a pinnacle, which reaches up almost to the surface. There you’ll get to see octopuses, moray eels and many other fish species, while the base of the reef itself is covered with large boulders where posidonia seagrass grows in abundance.

On the other hand, the tunnel’s walls are bursting with colour thanks to the golden zoanthids, red starfish, bristle worms and purple, as well as green algae that covers the area. Shoals of jacks and barracudas are often spotted here. Bristle worms can be found everywhere, while pink flabellina is also very common. The light penetrating through the crack along its ceiling together with that from the exit creates a mesmerising effect fit for a picture.

No trip to Gozo can take place without visiting the picturesque village of Xlendi in the south west of the island. Whether you’re interested in historical sites, nature and the village’s topography or you just want to take a brief stroll along the coast and sit in one of the many restaurants, you can do it all. A small tourist resort, it attracts both locals and tourists and can be quite busy during the summer months.

The scenery can be quite spectacular. The cliffs are separated by a valley that carries rainwater from the surrounding villages into the bay and it is here where the infamous Maltese Freshwater Crab lives. The valley has a clearly defined pathway you can trek, while taking in the panoramic views. Once you’ve crossed to the other side through a small stone bridge and ascended the cliff, you’ll come across Xlendi Tower, built to protect the bay from pirates and the Turks.

Other historical attractions include the Punic Tombs and Xlendi Mill. The cliff side on the right as you look out at sea is dotted with caves, the most famous one of all being Caroline’s cave. Named after a wealthy woman who founded the Augustinian sisters and donated her land and the cave to them, the sisters used to hide there from the public whenever they would go to the bay for a swim. The cave can be accessed via stairs.