Explore Għarb, Gozo: The Madame Blanc Filming Locations, Top Attractions & Travel Tips

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Għarb, one of the oldest villages in Gozo, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its traditional Maltese charm and more recently for its role as the fictional French village of Sainte Victoire in The Madame Blanc Mysteries, Għarb offers visitors a unique blend of heritage and modern-day allure, as well as some excellent location spotting opportunities for Madame Blanc fans. From its fascinating past to its picturesque countryside, Għarb's peaceful charm and cultural attractions make it a must-visit destination! Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit.

• How to get to Għarb

• Where to stay in Għarb

• Where to eat in Gharb

• Things to do in Għarb

• How to get around Għarb

• When to visit Għarb

• Plan your trip to Għarb

How to Get to Għarb

Getting to Għarb starts with travelling to Gozo, Malta’s sister island. To do this you'll need to catch a ferry and you have a choice of two.

• Gozo Channel Ferry (Cirkewwa to Mgarr): A 25-minute ferry ride departing every 30-45 minutes. It accommodates both passengers and vehicles.

• Gozo Highspeed Ferry (Valletta to Mgarr): The 45-minute option for foot passengers only.

You read that correctly, the Highspeed Ferry takes almost twice as long as the Gozo Channel Ferry. However, as it departs from Valletta, it is quicker and easy to reach if you are travelling from the airport or are staying around the central area or in the south of the Island. For help on deciding which ferry is the best option for you, check out our How to Get to Gozo article.

Once in Gozo, you can reach Għarb from Mgarr Harbour:

By Car: A 20-minute drive through scenic countryside. Cars can be hired from the Gozo Channel Ferry Terminal.

By Bus: Unfortunately, there is no direct bus route to Għarb. You will need to the 301 to Victoria, then transfer to Route 311 or 312 (40-50 minutes total). The bus is a great way to get around Gozo and there are several options that make it really cost-effective.

By Taxi or Bolt: White Taxis can be found outside the Ferry Terminal, we recommend agreeing the price before you start the ride. A more convenient option could be to order a Bolt or Uber for the 20-minute trip.

Where to Stay in Għarb, Gozo

Għarb offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveller, whether you fancy a luxury hotel stay, a charming B&B or experiencing a Gozitan Farmhouse. There's plenty of options.

Traditional Farmhouses: Stay in beautiful farmhouses that combine rustic charm with modern comforts. Many feature private pools and stunning views of Gozo’s countryside. Farmhouses are a great choice if you are travelling as a larger group or family.

Ta' Pinu Bed & Breakfast: Located near the iconic Ta' Pinu Basilica, this cozy B&B offers warm hospitality and a convenient base for exploring the area. There are plenty of other lovely guesthouses and B&Bs in Għarb for you to choose from.

Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz: For those seeking luxury, this nearby 5-star resort provides world-class amenities and a serene atmosphere. It is a 10-minute walk to the centre of the village from the hotel

Where to Eat in Għarb

Għarb may be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to dining options. From more casual places that are perfect for a quick Pizza, to more refined dining experiences, like Il-Kunvent. Unfortunately, for fans of The Madame Blanc Mysteries, while you can see the sign for La Couronne, it is a fictional bar and not open. It is a great place to take a selfie though!

Il-Kunvent Restaurant: Situated in the village's band club, Il-Kunvent serves delicious Mediterranean and Gozitan dishes in an authentic setting. Booking is highly recommended.

Rangers Bar & Restaurant: A local favourite for Mediterranean cuisine paired with craft beers and single malts.

Grazie Mille Restaurant: Perfect for Italian flavours, offering fresh pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas.

Salvina Restaurant & Lounge Bar: A casual spot for traditional Gozitan dishes and relaxed dining.

Things to Do in Għarb

Don't be fooled by its quiet appearance. There's plenty to keep you entertained if you decide to stay or visit Għarb.

Ta' Pinu Basilica: the National Shrine is a truly stunning building and really is a must-visit. Featuring beautiful architecture and panoramic views of the countryside, it is an easy and enjoyable walk from Għarb village centre.

Għarb Folklore Museum: Step back in time and explore Gozitan rural life through fascinating exhibits giving a glimpse into the past. (Temporarily closed).

Ta' Dbiegi Crafts Village: One of our favourite places to visit on all of Gozo. Originally built to house the British military, it is now home to local artisans in a variety of workshops and it's easy to pass an hour so watching these skilled crafts people create glass and metalware, leather goods, jewellery and all sorts of other goods.

Wied il-Mielaħ Window: Take a scenic walk to this natural rock formation

Madame Blanc Mysteries filming locations: Fans of the show will recognise Għarb's charming village square, which doubles as the fictional French village of Sainte Victoire. Keep an eye out for the exterior of La Couronne and the exterior of the Sainte Victoire Police Station!

How to Get Around Għarb

Għarb is a small village, making it easy to explore on foot. However, if you want to venture further afield, there are several transportation options available:

Bus: Għarb is served by bus routes 301, 311, and 312, connecting it to Victoria (Rabat) and other parts of Gozo.

Car rental: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Gozo at your own pace. Just remember that driving is on the left side of the road.

Taxi services: Apps like Bolt offer convenient ride-hailing services on Gozo.

Bicycle: For the more adventurous, renting a bike is a great way to explore Għarb and its beautiful surroundings.

Check out our guide on how to get around Gozo to work out the best options for you!

When to Visit Għarb

Gozo enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit depends on your preferences:

Spring (March-April) and autumn (October-December) both offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Summer (May-September) is ideal for beach lovers, with hot sunny days and warm sea temperatures. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive season.

Winter (January - February) is mild and quiet, great for budget travellers and those who enjoy a more relaxed pace

Plan your trip to Għarb

Ready to experience the magic of Għarb for yourself? Here are some final tips to help you plan your trip:

• Book your Għarb accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.

• Pack comfortable walking shoes to explore the village and surrounding countryside.

• Bring a good camera to capture Għarb's stunning views and charming architecture.

• Check out Events in Gozo and find out what's happening in the village during your visit.

• Don't forget to try some local specialties like Gozitan cheese and wine.

With its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and warm hospitality, Għarb offers a truly unforgettable Gozitan experience. Whether you're a culture enthusiast, nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, this charming village has something for everyone. So why wait? Start planning your Għarb adventure today!

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