Dwejra Cliffs

Gozo's geological showpiece

Dwejra is an extensive clifftop coastline at the western tip of Gozo, home to some of Malta's most spectacular geological formations. Within a compact area you find the Blue Hole, Inland Sea, Fungus Rock, the former Azure Window site, and rock layers documenting millions of years of geological history. Upper coralline limestone forms sheer walls, with softer Globigerina layers exposed below.

Fungus Rock

Just offshore stands an isolated rock known as Fungus Rock (Il-Gebla tal-General). It hosted Cynomorium coccineum, a parasitic plant that the Knights of Malta considered a miraculous remedy for wounds, haemorrhage, and dysentery. Grand Master Pinto in the 18th century restricted access to the rock and punished anyone who dared pick it without permission with a sentence to the galleys.

Nature reserve

The entire Dwejra area is protected under the Natura 2000 network and is among Malta's most ecologically valuable sites. Rare seabird species nest on the cliffs, including shearwaters and storm petrels.

Practical tip: Dwejra is perfect for a 90-minute sunset walk. Start at the Inland Sea, pass the Blue Hole, and finish at the former Azure Window viewpoint.