Why Visit San Lawrenz
A tranquil, picturesque village in western Gozo, San Lawrenz is famed for its dramatic coastal scenery, rural charm, and authentic Maltese character. The village is uniquely positioned near some of Gozo’s most iconic natural sites, including Dwejra Bay, the Blue Hole, Inland Sea, and Fungus Rock.
Unsurprisingly, San Lawrenz is Gozo’s most popular filming location. Before it collapsed in 2017, the Azure Window served as a backdrop for numerous international film and TV productions, such as Game of Thrones, The Count of Monte Cristo, and Clash of the Titans. Dwerja Tower, Fungus Rock and the Inland Sea have also appeared in multiple productions, including The Madame Blanc Mysteries, Byron, The Sweeney 2 and plenty more. If you’re interested in the rising trend of Setjetting, then Dwerja Bay is the perfect place to visit on Gozo.
San Lawrenz derives its name from Lawrence of Rome, the patron saint of the village. The area was originally known as Ta’ Ċangura before becoming a parish in 1893, when the community built its own church dedicated to Saint Lawrence. The relic of Saint Lawrence was placed under the foundation stone, and the village feast in his honour is celebrated every August.
How to Get to San Lawrenz
To get to Gozo, you first need to travel to Malta and then catch a ferry to this sister island. You have a few options, so we recommend reading taking our quick quiz on which Gozo Ferry is the best one for you.
Once you arrive in Mgarr, Gozo, you can either drive, take public transport or take a taxi..
- By Public Transport: Buses run regularly from the harbour to Victoria, once there you’ll need to catch the 311.
- By Car: Renting a car is ideal for exploring Gozo’s rural areas at your own pace. There are several car rental offices at Gozo harbour. Alternatively, Bolt and Uber both operate on Gozo.
Where to Stay in San Lawrenz
San Lawrenz offers a diverse range of accommodation, from luxury hotels to charming farmhouses and boutique guesthouses:
- Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz: A five-star resort featuring elegant rooms, suites, and apartments, six restaurants and lounges, a full-service spa, pools, tennis courts, and an authentic Ayurveda Centre. This is Gozo’s premier luxury hotel, perfect for travellers seeking comfort and style.
- Shanti Ghar Gozo: A highly rated boutique guesthouse within walking distance of the village square and local attractions.
- Farmhouses: The village and its surroundings are dotted with beautifully restored farmhouses, many with private pools, gardens, and countryside views. Options like Tas Suplu and Dwejra Peak House cater to larger groups and families, offering traditional charm with modern amenities.
- Self-Catering Apartments: Ideal for families or those seeking flexibility, with options throughout the village and nearby countryside, and there are plenty of options available.
Where to Eat in San Lawrenz
San Lawrenz is home to a selection of excellent restaurants.
- L-Istorja: Mediterranean and Italian-inspired cuisine, renowned for its fresh ingredients and inviting atmosphere.
- Azure Window Restaurant: Popular for seafood and traditional Maltese dishes, with views of Dwejra Bay. Highly recommended if you want to watch a stunningsunset.
- Il-Baldakkin Bistro & Lounge: Located in the Kempinski Hotel, serving Italian and international fare in a stylish setting.
- Tatitas By Verve: A local favourite for Sicilian and Italian cuisine.
Things to Do in San Lawrenz
- Dwejra Bay: Explore this UNESCO-listed site, famous for its geological wonders, the Blue Hole, Inland Sea, and Fungus Rock. It’s a hotspot for swimming, diving, and boat trips.
- Diving & Snorkelling: The Blue Hole is one of the Mediterranean’s most renowned dive sites, attracting divers worldwide.
- Inland Sea Boat Ride: Take a traditional boat through the tunnel to the open sea, enjoying spectacular cliff and cave views.
- Dwejra Tower: Visit this 17th-century watchtower for panoramic views and a glimpse into Malta’s coastal defences.
- Saint Lawrence Parish Church: Admire the beautiful baroque church, the heart of village life and home to significant artworks.
- Ta’ Dbiegi Craft Village: Discover local artisans producing pottery, glass, and lace,
- Walking & Cycling: Enjoy scenic trails around the hills and coastline, including mysterious cart ruts near Dwejra
- Star spotting: Dwerja is a dark sky haven and a great spot to watch the Perseid meteor showers every August.
San Lawrenz: Gozo’s Filming Location Hub
If you’re interested in spotting where famous films and TV productions have been shot, Dwerja is an unmissable spot. From the earliest days of Gozo’s forays on to the silver screen, in The Sailor of the King, this bay has proved popular with filmmakers from all over the world. The famous, and now-collapsed Azure Window, served as a backdrop for a remarkable number of film and TV productions. Notable examples include:
- Game of Thrones: Backdrop to Khal Drogo and Daenerys’ wedding.
- The Count of Monte Cristo: Part of the fabled island full of treasure.
- Clash of the Titans: The Azure Window dominates as the Kraken is bested.
Even though the Azure Window is now gone, there’s plenty of other productions that have made the most of the area’s dramatic landscapes, unique rock formations, and atmospheric coastline. From the BBC’s 1980s mini-series, Byron, which shot around the boathouses of the Inland Sea, to the recent Swedish move, Syndabocken (Shame on Dry Land). I often joke that when I discover a new production that has shot, or is being shot on Gozo. That the answer to where the exact location is will usually be Dwerja. Take a look out our filming locations page and you’ll see what I mean.
Seasonal Guide: San Lawrenz
| Season | Weather & Activities | Events & Tips |
| Spring | Mild, ideal for countryside walks | Wildflowers in bloom, fewer tourists |
| Summer | Hot, perfect for swimming and diving | Village feast in early August; peak tourist and festival season |
| Autumn | Warm, quieter beaches, great for hiking | Harvest festivals, fewer crowds |
| Winter | Cooler, peaceful atmosphere | Off-peak prices, ideal for relaxation |
- Best Time to Visit: June to September for beach and diving; spring and autumn for a quieter, more relaxed experience.
- Village Feast: The Festa of San Lawrenz is held in the first week of August, with processions, music, and fireworks.
Ready to Plan Your Trip to San Lawrenz?
San Lawrenz offers dramatic natural beauty, authentic village life, and a warm welcome year-round. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local culture, this charming village is the perfect base for exploring Gozo’s wild west coast and its cinematic landscapes. Book your stay, pack your walking shoes, and discover why San Lawrenz is truly unforgettable.
