Giordan Lighthouse

What makes it special

Ta' Ġurdan, as the lighthouse is called locally, stands on the summit of Ġurdan Hill. Its tower dominates Għasri, the village below, and the hilltop is one of the island's most recognisable viewpoints.

From the flat summit the view runs all the way round the island. It takes in the Gozitan countryside and the coastline, and on clear days Malta shows in the distance across the water.

The light first shone in October 1853, from clusters of oil lamps set along each face of the tower, to guide ships through the island's northern waters. It is now fully automated, and what you come for is the open hilltop around it.

Visiting

Getting there starts with Għasri, the village at the foot of the hill. Bus 308 makes the short run from Victoria.

Drivers can reach the lower part of the hill by car. From there, or on foot from the village, the rest of the way is a moderately steep walk uphill.

At the summit, the flat ground around the tower is open to wander, so take your time with the view from the open ground before you head back down.

Tips

Wied il-Għasri, a narrow, fjord-like inlet below the village, is good for swimming, snorkelling and diving; allow a couple more hours for the walk down and time at the water.

Wear good shoes for the stairs down to the inlet and water shoes for the pebbles, and take water and something to eat. The coastal path to Marsalforn past the salt pans also starts from Għasri.