Xlendi Bay at sunset, with boats moored in the harbour.

Xlendi, Gozo: The Local’s Guide

By Kerry Gaffney | Last Updated 08/06/2026

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Why Visit Xlendi, Gozo?

Xlendi, pronounced SHLEN-dee, is a bay that people visit once and start planning a return trip before they’ve left. A narrow inlet between tall limestone cliffs, a promenade lined with restaurants, and water clear enough to see the bottom from the quayside. We walked there on our first Christmas on the island and sat with beers at the water’s edge, which tells you something about the weather and everything about why we stayed.

The bay has layers if you know where to look. The Il-Kantra bridge, connecting the two sides of the inlet, looks like something from a fairy tale — the kind of structure you half expect to find a troll living underneath. Xlendi Tower, built by the Knights of St John in 1650, sits above the bay on the western cliffs and is worth the walk up, especially if the flag is flying and it’s open. The walk along the cliff path from here toward Sannat is one of Gozo’s better scrambles.

The filming connections are genuine and specific. Sean Connery shot scenes here for The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen in 2003 — his last on-screen role before retiring. The Madame Blanc Mysteries used the bay in Series 2, and the wonderful Maltese movie Żejtune had some key scenes on the promenade. The annual greasy pole competition during the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in late August is, quite honestly, better entertainment than most of what’s on television.

For eating, Ta’ Karolina for fresh fish, Il-Terrazzo for the view — we had Christmas lunch there once, bumped into more friends that evening, and the day entirely took on a life of its own. Luqa wine bar, which replaced the much-missed Diamond, does generous free snacks as the sun goes down and is the right place to be at that hour.

Where to Stay in Xlendi 

Xlendi offers accommodations for every traveller, from boutique hotels to family-friendly apartments and charming B&Bs. If you like the look of Xlendi but would prefer a traditional farmhouse or villa, check out nearby Munxar.

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  • Block: Not even two minutes from Xlendi’s seafront this modern hotel offers a mix of rooms and apartments, and has a couple of great bars.

  • Hotel San Andrea: 5 metres from the sea and with an amazing view of the bay, this cozy seafront hotel perfect for couples.

  • Arzella Apartments: Spacious units ideal for families or groups.

  • SeaView Apartments: Modern spaces with balconies overlooking the bay.

  • San Antonio Guesthouse: Known for its warm hospitality, two swimming pools and convenient location.

Things to Do in Xlendi

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There’s so much more to Xlendi than its gorgeous bay! Here are some activities that should be on your list:

  • Swim or Snorkel in Xlendi Bay: The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming or exploring underwater life with a snorkel. For something different, rent a kayak or paddleboard and glide along the cliffs!

  • Visit Xlendi Tower: Built in 1650 by the Order of St John, this historic watchtower offers panoramic views of the bay and surrounding cliffs. It’s an easy walk from the village centre and well worth it for history buffs and photographers alike! If the flag is up, it’s open to have a look around inside.

  • Hiking Adventures: The rugged cliffs around Xlendi are crisscrossed with hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea—ideal for nature lovers and keen walkers.

  • Catch a Sunset: There’s nothing quite like watching the sun dip below the horizon over Xlendi Bay, it’s pure magic! Head up to Il-Terrazzo or find your own quiet spot along the cliffs for an unforgettable view.

  • Discover Filming Locations: Xlendi is one of the most popular filming spots on Gozo, and holds the dubious honour of being one of the last locations Sean Connery filmed at, before retiring from on-screen performances.

    • The film in question was The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003) which
      brought Hollywood glamour to Xlendi’s dramatic cliffs. Unfortunately the scenes were shot on the cliff tops to give the impression of being at sea, so you can’t see any of Gozo in the final movie.

    • The Madame Blanc Mysteries (2021 – onwards) In the opening episode of season 2, Jeremy staggers out of a nightclub and after receiving increasingly frosty voicemails from his wife, Judith, heads off to sleep on board his boat. The night club entrance is actually a hairdressers which can be found a minute from Xlendi Bay. Rita, Jeremy And Judith’s cabin cruiser was also anchored in Xlendi Bay. Discover more actual locations for The Madame Blanc Mysteries with our ultimate guide.

    • Gozo (2015), an award-winning indie film that beautifully captures the island’s charm, also featured scenes shot in this picturesque bay.

The water around the island is Gozo, so you should spend some part of your visit either on the sea, or in it. These are a top recommendations to explore the island from a different perspective.

Dining in Xlendi

One of the highlights of visiting Xlendi is its fantastic restaurants! Many of them are right on the water’s edge, and all offer gorgeous views of the bay. Here are some must-visit spots for a delicious meal:

  • Mal Moll: Located along the promenade, it offers a mix of international and local dishes with views that are just as good as the food!
  • Il-Terrazzo: Perched on the cliffs overlooking the bay, this restaurant offers unbeatable views and mouthwatering dishes. Fresh seafood is their speciality, and it’s the perfect spot for a romantic sunset dinner or a leisurely lunch with friends. Make sure to book to get a table with the best view.
  • Ta’ Karolina: Nestled right by the water’s edge, this cosy restaurant is known for its fresh fish and Mediterranean cuisine. A true gem!
  • The Boathouse Restaurant: A favourite among locals and visitors alike, this spot serves traditional Gozitan dishes with a modern twist in a welcoming atmosphere.

How to Get to and Around Xlendi, Gozo

Xlendi is small and easy to explore, but here are some tips for getting around. You can also check out our recommendations on How to Get Around Gozo.

  • On Foot: Most of Xlendi’s attractions are within walking distance, so lace up your shoes and enjoy wandering through its charming streets and along its scenic coastline.
  • By Bus: Route 306 connects Xlendi with Victoria and other parts of Gozo—an affordable and eco-friendly way to get around.
  • Car Rentals: If you’re planning to explore beyond Xlendi, renting a car is a great option for visiting nearby villages or hidden beaches at your own pace.

Xlendi is one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left, its natural beauty, warm hospitality and relaxed atmosphere make it truly special. Whether you’re here for an adventure-filled holiday or simply looking for peace and quiet by the sea, this little village has something for everyone.

Start planning your trip today with our Gozo Guides, you won’t regret it!

FAQ

If you want to use public transport, you’ll need to take a bus to Gozo’s capital, Victoria first and then take a second bus to Xlendi. You can catch the 301, 303 or 323 from outside the Gozo Channel Ferry terminal, then you need the 306 or 330.

Alternatively, you can hire a car or book a taxi with Uber, Bolt or eCabs apps.

The best thing to do all year is visit Xlendi when it is celebrating its Festa and watch people of all ages, shapes and sizes try to run up a greasy pole. Wonderful entertainment.

If that’s not happening, a cool drink as you watch the sunset is a wonderful substitute.

Xlendi is great for families. There’s plenty of family-friendly accommodation, a small beach, waterports and plenty of cliffs to explore.

I’ve had some of the most amazing fresh fish at several restaurants in Xlendi, you really can’t go wrong with any of the eateries that line the bay. That said, if you want a meal with the best view, then Il-Terrazzo is the one you should head to.

There’s plenty of special events that take place in Xlendi, obviously there is the feast of Lady of Mount Carmel, which takes place in late August or early September. Then throughout the summer, there’s plenty of live music and different celebrations. Including a weekend long ceramics festival.

Yes, the promenade is pedestrianised and there is a lovely waterside path that you can follow up the cliffs. Be aware that if you want to walk or cycle along the road, there is a lot of up.

Xlendi is beautiful year-round, but here’s what you can expect depending on when you visit:

Winter (January – February: A quieter time when you’ll have much of the village to yourself but keep in mind that many restaurants close during winter months, and heavy rains can occasionally cause flooding.

Spring (March–April): Perfect weather for hiking, exploring, and dining outdoors without the summer crowds.

Summer (May–September): Ideal for swimming and water activities but expect it to be busier with tourists.

Autumn (October- December): Warm seas make it great for swimming while enjoying cooler evenings.

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