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Marsalforn
Welcome to Marsalforn Bay, a charming resort town that offers everything a holidaymaker could ask for. Originally a small fishing village, the town has grown into a vibrant community that still maintains its roots, with a handful of local fishermen using the harbour as a base for their boats. As you explore the town, you'll discover a delightful church and a plethora of restaurants and lively bars, making it the perfect destination for foodies and nightlife enthusiasts alike. But the real star of Marsalforn Bay is the stunning bay itself, which provides a breathtaking backdrop for leisurely walks along the promenade. As the sun sets, the promenade comes alive with locals and visitors alike, who gather to enjoy the sea breeze and the stunning views. Whether you're looking to dine by the water's edge, sip a refreshing cocktail, or simply take a relaxing stroll, Marsalforn Bay is the perfect destination.
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With various swimming spots to choose from, you can start by relaxing on the sandy beach located in the inner mouth of the bay, or if you're feeling adventurous, dive into the refreshing water from the rocky foreshore along the western flank of the bay. If you prefer a more relaxed entry, ease yourself in using the ladders fixed to the shore for swimmers. Perhaps, the best swimming experience can be found at the scenic Ghar Qawqla located in the outer parts of the bay. This hidden gem offers a plateau of rock by the sea, backed by clayey slopes. One section of Ghar Qawqla forms a natural pool of shallow water, perfect for those who want to take a dip without worrying about deep waters. For ultimate relaxation, sun loungers and umbrellas are available for rent, making it the perfect spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the stunning views. You can easily reach Ghar Qawqla with a leisurely 600-meter walk from Murella Living. Get ready for a day of fun in the sun at the bay's ultimate swimming destination!
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Just a kilometer away lies a hidden gem called Qbajjar. It's a small, serene bay that offers a perfect alternative to the bustling Marsalforn bay. The pebbly beach, sandwiched between rocky plateaus, gives off a natural and untouched vibe. Qbajjar is also a haven for swimmers and snorkelers alike. The seabed, covered with posidonia, a type of seagrass which is a prime spawning ground for fish in the central Mediterranean. And if you're looking for an even more thrilling experience, just head around the peninsula to the west, and you'll find Xwejni Bay. Situated just 400 meters further from Qbajjar, this spot offers some of the best snorkelling opportunities in the area.
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West of Xwejni there are the famous salt pans – depressions pickaxed into the plateau, and used to harvest natural salt – the salt pans stretch west along the coast for 1.5km, creating abstract or regular patterns. A road stretches along the coast here, set back from the salt pans, and it makes a rewarding walk in the late afternoon when the sun sets down the horizon west of Gozo, creating dazzling corridor of light stretching to the horizon and romantic reflections of warm light on the still water of the salt pans. The salt pans eventually end at Wied Il-Ghasri, a mini-fjord cut into the body of the rocky land, hemmed in by fifty-metre-high cliffs: it’s an excellent spot for swimming and snorkeling (there is a steep flight of stairs that leads down to the pebbly shore at the inner part of the fjord).
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This stretch of coast – from Marsalforn to Wied Il-Ghasri – is also the most scenic walk. This 5km hike is the ultimate way to bask in the scenic beauty of the area, and it won't take more than 3 hours at a leisurely pace.
There are other awe-inspiring walks that start from Murella Living. One of these walks will take you east of the bay to Ghar Qawqla and beyond. The path skirts the coast, leading to the magnificent Ghajn Barrani cove. The contrast of the rocky boulders and light-grey clay plateau against the azure sea is a sight to behold. However, be warned; the path to Ghajn Barrani can be rugged, so it's crucial to wear good shoes and take care. The round-trip hike is 4km. If you're looking for more walking opportunities, the country roads that run inland along two valleys are just the thing. These are best tackled in the winter when the landscape is green and alive. There are various routes to choose from, and the reception will be more than happy to provide you with all the necessary information.
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