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Għajn Barrani Cliffs (Gozo)

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Għajn Barrani is a remote and ecologically significant coastal area on the northern shore of Gozo, situated between Marsalforn and Ramla Bay. Its name translates to 'Foreigner's Spring', referring to the natural freshwater springs that emerge from the underlying clay layers. The landscape is characterized by ancient terraced fields perched on unstable Blue Clay slopes that drop dramatically toward the sea. This geological composition leads to frequent minor landslides, giving the coastline a rugged and constantly evolving appearance. The area is only accessible on foot via narrow trails, making it a sanctuary for hikers seeking solitude away from developed areas. Botanically, the site is of great importance as the constant water supply from the springs supports flora that is uncommon in the typically arid Gozitan environment. From the cliff tops, visitors can enjoy expansive views across the azure northern waters toward the neighboring island of Comino.

Location: Malta
Top sights: Mixta Cave · Tal-Mixta Cave · San Blas
Nearby: Għajnsielem (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	15	14	15	16	19	23	26	27	25	23	20	16
Rain mm	74	65	51	33	17	11	4	10	63	82	95	82

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

These untouched clay cliffs offer a wild, unfenced natural area to wander through. You can explore the undulating slopes and enjoy undisturbed views over the deep blue sea.

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Typical hours

Always open, but visiting is strongly recommended only during the dry daylight hours. The clay soil becomes dangerously slippery and virtually impassable in the dark or rain.

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Photography

The rugged, terraced clay formations provide unique, abstract textures for landscape photography. Late afternoon light beautifully highlights the golden hues of the rocks and clay.

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Time needed

A typical hike traversing this coastal section usually takes about two hours, depending on how frequently you stop to take photographs or simply absorb the profound silence.

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Combine with

This hike is best integrated into a longer coastal trek linking the popular, red-sanded Ramla Bay to the bustling seaside resort town of Marsalforn for a full day out.

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Getting there

The area is accessible exclusively on foot via the coastal trails starting from either Xagħra, Ramla Bay, or Marsalforn. There are no paved roads leading directly to these cliffs.

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Insider tip

Avoid this route completely during or immediately after rainfall; the distinct blue clay that forms these cliffs turns into a thick, highly slippery mud that is dangerous to walk on.

Geography

Coordinates

36.06400, 14.29500

Facts

The area is located on Gozo's northern coast between Marsalforn and Ramla.
The name 'Għajn Barrani' means 'Spring of the Stranger' in Maltese.
It is one of the few places in Gozo with active natural freshwater springs.
The cliffs are largely composed of unstable Blue Clay formations.
Natural landslides frequently alter the physical shape of the coastline.
The site is highly valued for its unique botanical and ecological diversity.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Tal-Mixta Cave (Gozo)<1 km · WExplore →

Ta' Mena Estate (Gozo)2 km · SWExplore →

Ta' Kenuna Tower3 km · SExplore →

Marsalforn3 km · WExplore →

Xewkija Industrial Estate (Gozo)4 km · SWExplore →

Gozo Cottage Products4 km · SWExplore →

Mgarr Harbour (Gozo)4 km · SExplore →

Marsalforn Salt Pans5 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Għajn Barrani Cliffs (Gozo) (10)

Mixta Cave

Cave in Malta, located in the cliffs of Gozo, overlooking Ramla Bay.

Tal-Mixta Cave

Viewpoint at Mixta Cave with panoramic views over Ramla Bay and the sea.

San Blas

Beach on Gozo, Malta, a smaller sandy beach on the north coast.

Ir-Ramla l-Ħamra

Bay on the north coast of Gozo, known for its red sandy beach.

Il-Bajja tar-Ramla l-Ħamra

Bay on the north coast of Gozo, encompassing the red sand Ramla Bay.

Ramla bay Roman villa

Archaeological site of a Roman villa near Ramla Bay on Gozo.

Belancourt battery

Monument of a historic battery, part of the coastal fortifications on Gozo.

Abandoned complex

Abandoned building complex near the cliffs of Gozo, a derelict structure.

Calypso's Cave (closed)

Cave in Malta, legendary home of the nymph Calypso, currently closed.

Sopu Tower🏰 castle

Watchtower in Malta, part of the island's historic coastal defense.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is special about Għajn Barrani?

It is a remote coastal area featuring clay slopes and flat rock plateaus.

How do I get there?

You reach it via hiking trails from Marsalforn or Xagħra; there is no direct road for cars.

Is it an official swimming beach?

No, it is a very natural area mainly visited by hikers.

What wildlife can be found there?

The area is rich in flora and a sanctuary for many local bird species.

Should I wear sturdy shoes?

Yes, the paths are steep, often slippery (especially on clay), and uneven.

Għajn Barrani Cliffs (Gozo): where is it located?

Għajn Barrani Cliffs (Gozo) is located in Malta.

Għajn Barrani Cliffs (Gozo): what is there to see?

Highlights include Mixta Cave, Tal-Mixta Cave, San Blas.

Għajn Barrani Cliffs (Gozo): when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.

Għajn Barrani Cliffs (Gozo): why is it worth visiting?

Għajn Barrani is a remote and ecologically significant coastal area on the northern shore of Gozo, situated between Marsalforn and Ramla Bay.

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