Overview
What's included?
- Transfers: Return airport transfer to/from ferry terminal, ferry ticket (only needed for return journey), return transfers between the ferry terminal and hotel, all transfers during photography days
- Accommodation: 7 nights in hotel rooms based on two sharing a twin or double room. A choice of two hotels is available (see the accommodation section for details)
- Meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 picnic lunches, 1 dinner
- Experienced photography tutor will provide guidance and coaching from day two to seven
- You will experience the highlights of both Gozo and Malta - the exact agenda is determined by the group's preferences but will include cultural delights, the most scenic landscapes and ancient heritage sites. Your return ferry ticket to Malta on day seven is also included
Professional photographer Pete Bullen is your guide and tutor for seven days of inspiring active learning, covering your favourite and even your most feared aspects of photography.
In a small group of up to 6 people (beginners and experienced photographers), you'll bring your own equipment and join Pete to focus your individual interests in this fantastic and photogenic location. You will see parts of Malta and Gozo at their very best as you'll be there on either side of the peak summer months.
We haven't forgotten that this week is still a holiday for you and so your photography days out are tailored to meet your preferred pace whilst ensuring the best photographic opportunities.
Around Gozo, highlights include an early morning start to capture the sunrise over the harbour and a sunset stroll to get the views from the cliff tops. You will also explore the wilder parts of the island, learning how to capture the unusual prehistoric cart ruts or the narrow lanes of Rabat's old town and the ancient citadel.
Read moreYour day trip to Malta includes a visit to Valetta, the current capital, and a chance to photograph the beautifully restored old capital of Medina now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The magnificent buildings and tiny winding back streets make perfect studies through your lens.
On this photography holiday Pete will challenge you to consider composition, the rules (and when to break them), help you escape the Auto and Programme modes so you can take full control of your photography. He can also teach you about editing RAW camera files using Adobe Lightroom if you so wish. These valuable skills will improve the pictures you take and how you produce them in future.
Pete Bullen, your photographic guide and coach for the week
Pete fell in love with photography at the age of six when he took his first photograph. A multi-award-winning photographer with work published in magazines and books all over the world, he moved to Gozo five years ago to indulge his three passions: scuba diving, underwater photography and landscape photography. He immerses himself in island life, its culture and history.
Image credits Pete Bullen
Key facts
Duration: | 7 nights |
Pace: | Balanced |
Suitable for: | Anybody over the age of 15. See our terms for further information. |
Dates & Prices
We include more, no hidden costs
Prices
Dates | ||
---|---|---|
Fri 04 Oct 2024
to Fri 13 Dec 2024 |
Adults £ 1,125 To £ 1,260 | |
Sat 01 Mar 2025
to Sat 28 Jun 2025 |
Adults £ 1,125 To £ 1,260 | |
Sat 04 Oct 2025
to Sat 13 Dec 2025 |
Adults £ 1,125 To £ 1,260 |
Next season’s dates and prices
Dates | ||
---|---|---|
Sun 01 Mar 2026
to Sun 28 Jun 2026 |
Adults £ 1,245 To £ 1,385 | |
Sun 04 Oct 2026
to Sun 13 Dec 2026 |
Adults £ 1,245 To £ 1,385 |
Terms
For our full booking terms and conditions please click here
The Specifics
Group Size
We always try to provide an approximation of the group size you can expect to be with for the duration of each of our holidays. It may be that you are joined by others for parts of your holiday (such as transfers and particular activities) but the above number reflects those you can normally expect to be with from beginning to end. If group size is something which is particularly important to you, please speak to our Travel Experts and they can suggest the best holidays for you.
Tailor-made holiday group sizes will vary for all activities as will the group size for any additional activities you book.
Minimum and maximum age
If a specific minimum age applies to this holiday, it can be found in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page.
Unless otherwise stated in the in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page, the minimum age for participation in an Artisan holiday is typically 8 years old (there may be younger children in some destinations who have booked with other companies). If an adult-only environment is important to you, then please contact our Travel Experts and they will advise on the best dates and destinations for you. If you are looking for a holiday designed specifically for families then please see our sister company www.activitiesabroad.com
Itinerary amendments
The order of activities listed in this agenda is provided for guidance only, your final and detailed itinerary will be provided either with your final travel documents (which are uploaded into your online account around a week prior to departure) or upon arrival.
Medical History and Advice
We want our holidays to be accessible as they can be and will do our best to accommodate any special requests and requirements where possible. We have a wide range of holidays and destinations and so our travel experts will help find the best holiday for you.
In order to give us the best possible chance to do this we ask that if you or any member of your party has any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or has any special requirements, that you tell us at the time of enquiry or booking. You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed. You may need to provide a doctor’s note and proof of insurance in some cases as the health and safety of our clients is absolutely paramount.
In providing this information you are allowing us to work with our expert local partners to ensure that your whole party can enjoy the holiday. By letting us know in advance we can discreetly work with you to adapt any part of the holiday which may potentially be challenging. Being able to prepare for this in advance makes an incredible difference to what we can offer and minimises any impact on your party and the rest of the group.
Unfortunately, if you choose not to share this information with us in advance then it may limit some or all of the itinerary you have booked, and we cannot be held accountable for any additional costs or missed activities resulting from this.
Insurance
Insurance is not included in your holiday, but it is a pre-requisite to travelling with us. You will need to ensure that you have cover for all the activities that you will be participating in during your holiday.
It is extremely important that you take out a suitable travel insurance policy at the time of booking. Plans do sometimes change, and you will need this policy should you need to cancel your holiday.
If you are struggling to find a suitable policy then details of our preferred provider, who will cover you for all the activities we offer, can be found on our website by clicking here. Please note that this policy is available to EU residents under the age of 75 only.
The UK Foreign Office Advice
Our clients’ safety is at the centre of everything we do, and our operations team continually assesses and monitors the destinations we feature. We carry out thorough risk assessments and work closely with all of our suppliers to continually follow best practice. For up to date travel advice the UK government offers its Travel Aware website as well as the advice detailed below.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice
We receive all updates from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) with regards to travel advice and we always ensure that we follow this advice in our operations. The FCO issues travel advisories for countries based on a very wide range of factors. They may provide notification about things as simple as a football match and crowds, or they may go so far as to advise against all travel to a region. We ask all our clients to refer to the relevant Travel Advice by Country for the destinations they are visiting in order to make an informed decision on the safety of the destination based on the details provided. It also provides vital information regarding entry requirements, embassy information, local laws and customs as well as specific safety and health. Guests should take responsibility for keeping themselves up to date with this advice. Please also ensure that, if you are transiting through another country, you have read the advice and meet the entry requirements for that destination too.
The FCO travel advice is applicable to British Passport Holders. Most governments will issue their own travel advice for a region and, if you are not a UK resident then you can find some helpful links below:
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
Canadian Consular Affairs Bureau http://voyage.gc.ca/
The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english.html
If the FCO deems that there is an unacceptable level of risk for UK citizens then, together with the government, they may issue an advisory against all travel to a region or country. If such an advisory is published, then we will act accordingly, and this may require the cancellation, curtailment or amendment of a holiday itinerary. These decisions are made on the basis of ensuring our clients’ safety and will affect all clients on the holiday, regardless of their nationality.
If one of our local experts suggests an amendment due to a situation which develops locally then we may also take the decision to amend an itinerary appropriately.
If we have to cancel your holiday prior to departure you will be offered the option of an alternative trip (where any price difference will either be refunded to or covered by you) or a full refund of the monies paid.
If we have to curtail a holiday, then you will be refunded for any costs for the elements we have been unable to deliver, where we have been able to secure a refund from our suppliers. If we must reroute a holiday, then any basis for refund is determined on a case by case basis and dependent on whether the central holiday experience was provided or not.
Booking activities locally
Additional activities can be booked locally in almost all our destinations. However, as per our booking conditions, we cannot be held responsible for any injury or loss incurred through participation in activities which are booked at your destination outside of our holiday itinerary (see our ‘Terms and Conditions’ for further details).
When arranging any such activity please always ensure that safety is your primary concern.
In some of our destinations, you can borrow or hire equipment for use in your free time. You do so entirely at your own risk. You must ensure that you are properly prepared, have the necessary equipment and knowledge (maps, etc) and ensure that where applicable, you follow marked routes. We recommend discussing your plans with the local teams who will be able to advise on the most suitable options for you.
Always let the reception/guide know where you are planning to go and take a torch and mobile phone (with the hotel/guide’s phone number stored). It is also a good idea to leave your contact number and the time you expect to return to the hotel should the hotel need to contact you.
Brexit information for British Passport holders
For the most up to date information on how the UK’s departure from the EU may affect your holiday please click here to view our Brexit information for British Passport holders.
Flight schedule changes and connecting transportation
On your documentation, we will confirm your flight schedule. Sometimes the flight number, routing and timings might change prior to your departure. If the change is classed as a significant change then we will contact you to discuss this. Please see our booking conditions for details.
Flight schedule changes can impact on your pre and post-holiday travel arrangements if these have been booked separately to your holiday. We strongly recommend that you do not book transport (such as trains or transfers), car parking or non-connecting flights to the departure point for your holiday until you have received your final confirmed travel times when your final travel documents are issued. We are not responsible for the effect of any schedule change on your pre or post travel arrangements. We strongly recommend that you do not purchase non-flexible or non-refundable tickets to avoid cancellation and penalty charges.
Booking your own flights - cancellation disclaimer
If you have chosen to book your own flights, then you will need to wait until we confirm to you that the holiday departure has met the minimum numbers required to run (if applicable to your chosen holiday). Once the holiday is guaranteed to run, you will be informed and you can then make your arrangements.
If transfers are included in your holiday, please ensure that any potential flights will be met by our standard transfers (speak to one of our Travel Experts for advice) otherwise private transfer supplements may be applicable. Once your flights are booked, please send us a copy of your detailed flight itinerary.
Please be aware that most tickets are non-refundable in the case of cancellation. For this reason, we strongly advise you check the rules of the ticket and check the limitations of your cancellation insurance before booking. We cannot be held liable, in the unlikely eventuality that we should be forced to cancel or amend your trip, for losses incurred relating to any flight booking you have made.
Terms and Conditions
Our full booking terms and conditions can be found on our website: https://www.artisantravel.co.uk/booking-conditions
Minimum travellers 10, Maximum travellers 20
Agenda
Agenda
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DAY 1
Arrival in Gozo
You will be collected at Malta International Airport (Luqa) for the two-hour transfer to your hotel on Gozo.
The transfer includes a taxi to the ferry port for the 25-minute crossing and another taxi that will take you to your chosen accommodation at either the Cornucopia Hotel or the Ta'Cenc Hotel & Spa, each a fine place to stay.
You can check into your hotel and will enjoy dinner in the restaurant tonight.
Included Meals: Dinner -
DAY 2
Meet the Expert and Introduction to Gozo
After breakfast, your photographer, guide and tutor, Pete Bullen, will meet you at your hotel. He will introduce Gozo and discuss your particular interests in order to tailor the week ahead according to everyone's wishes.
On this first day, you may visit Mgarr Harbour, known as the 'Gateway to Gozo', famous for its picturesque fishing boats and pleasure craft. Qala Point (Arabic and Maltese for sheltered haven or bay), with its wild landscape and unobstructed views of Malta and Comino, is a good picnic spot for lunch and more photo opportunities.
It's time then to head to the red sandy beach of San Blas for a walking tour before the day ends with fabulous sunset views from Dwejra.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch -
DAY 3
Sunrise and Seascapes
You'll start out early today to catch the sunrise over the harbour. The group will then set off to see Gozo's capital Victoria, also known as Rabat. The old town and the goings on in the lively market square, It-Tokk, are always fascinating. The Citadel is visible from almost all of the island, rising up above the surrounding countryside.
After a picnic lunch, you head to the secluded Ix Xhatt l'Ahmar meaning 'Red Bay'. Within sight of the guard post of Fort Chambray, this beach is accessible through a narrow road winding from the village of Ghajnsielem. It's ideal for swimming and for diving, with the wreck of the Malta-Gozo Ferryboat "Xlendi" lying just offshore.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch -
DAY 4
The Wonders of Gozo
The group can arrange with Pete to do a sunrise or sunset trip to the island's ancient ruins on the Ta'Cenc plateau.
The Ggantija "Giant's Temples" in Xaghra are a world heritage site pre-dating The Great Pyramid Of Giza and Stonehenge. They are the oldest freestanding temples in the world. There's plenty of scope around this area for flower, insect and macro photography. You can try out some new skills and techniques here in a place that many believe to be very spiritual.
After a picnic lunch, you will head to the northern shores of Gozo for more awe-inspiring seascapes and the dramatic geological formations of this tiny, surprising island.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch -
DAY 5
Gozo Your Own Way
Today is free for you to spend at leisure, completely your own way.
You may wish to return to one of the spots Pete has shown you or prefer to seek out your own new location. You might like to try something completely different, with or without your camera in hand!
Gozo has a staggering choice of activities for an island of just 9 x 5 miles. Traditional life carries on as visitors zip through tiny towns on Segway tours or cycling trips, mixing a flash of modern life with the old ways.
The exciting coastline of tall rock cliffs and sea caves is a playground for climbers and abseilers, kayakers, scuba divers and snorkellers. All year round, there's plenty to see and do - details of all of the available options can be found in the 'Personalise' section of the holiday page.
Included Meals: Breakfast -
DAY 6
Marsalforn Salt Pans and the Punic Temple
The ancient salt pans at Marsalforn are still in use today, producing sea salt for the islanders and for export. Together with Pete, your group will decide whether to view them at sunrise or sunset as their glistening appearance makes for magical photographs.
The architecture and art collections set in the serene surroundings of Gozo's many churches and shrines are excellent photographic subjects too. The marble Basilica of St. George's in Victoria dates back before 1450 and Gozo Cathedral is a stunning study for your own style of shots, inside and out.
After lunch, there will be time to discuss and edit your images before a trip to the mysterious Punic Temple which is cut into the hillside and offers jaw-dropping cliff-top vistas.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch -
DAY 7
Malta's Highlights
Today you ferry across to the beautiful sister isle of Malta to visit the ancient capital Medina with cathedrals, churches, chapels and stunning architecture at every turn.
Above the narrow streets and mysterious alleyways of "The Silent City", the bastions provide an almost 360-degree panoramic view of the island. There are catacombs, cliffs, botanical gardens and the famous dome at Mosta to see, one of the largest standing unsupported domes in Europe.
After lunch, you will explore the lively streets of today's capital, Valletta, on Malta's south coast. You'll have plenty of opportunities to photograph unusual buildings and beautiful locations like the Barracca Gardens built by the Knights of St.John which has incredible views of the Grand Harbour and the fortified Three Cities.
You will be transferred back to your accommodation in time to enjoy your final evening on Gozo.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch -
DAY 8
Departure
Time to return home with lots of new ideas to try and hopefully some new friends to keep in touch with.
Now you have seen Gozo in all her glory, at sunrise and sunset, you will no doubt miss this wonderful location, its delicious cuisine and friendly locals. We hope you look back fondly on your time spent here with Pete Bullen. You can probably understand why he decided to make Gozo his home, now that you have looked at the island with a photographer's eye.
A taxi will take you to the ferry terminal where you obtain the ticket to board the ferry. When you arrive in Malta, another taxi will bring you to the airport for your flight back home.
Please note: The itinerary is for guidance only, subject to clients' preferences and changes due to weather.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
Accommodation
Included in price
Cornucopia Hotel
Nights: 1-7
An extended converted traditional farmhouse full of character and tranquillity the Cornucopia Hotel waits to welcome you. A family-run hotel which is a real home away from home but with the added luxuries of two swimming pools & a Jacuzzi. With a warm Mediterranean feel running throughout the hotel you will feel like you are in the heart of traditional Gozo.
Located only a short walk away from the main village of Xaghra you will not be too far away from the local shops and restaurants. If you would prefer to enjoy the peace and quiet that the hotel has to offer there are plenty of on-site facilities to keep you entertained.
Facilities:
- Two swimming pools, surrounded by mature gardens and plants providing the ideal location to sit back and relax (sunbeds, umbrellas and towels are available)
- A separate children's pool to keep the younger ones entertained
- A Jacuzzi on the upper deck, pool area
- For those quiet moments - a reading room, a TV room and various sun terraces
- A hotel restaurant with an à la carte menu serving some great food with local fresh ingredients
Room types
Double/Twin Rooms: Your stay here will be in a charming rustic style double or twin en-suite bedroom. Your room will offer either a pool view or a side valley view. There are 20 standard rooms all furnished in the characteristic rustic style typical of the hotel. The rooms are comfortable and decorated in warm Mediterranean style with natural wood furniture and cool tiled floors. All rooms have a balcony or terrace, en-suite bathroom, minibar, trouser press, direct dial telephone, cable LCD TV, hairdryer, ceiling fans and individually controlled central heating/air-conditioning.
Other options
Ta' Cenc Spa Hotel
During your stay on Gozo, you may wish to upgrade the Ta' Cenc Spa hotel. This beautiful hotel is situated on the outskirts of the village and is built on the islands highest point. It offers stunning views over the islands of Malta and Comino as well as the magnificent cliffs as far as you can look. It is surrounded by over 100 hectares of nature and harmonises perfectly with the surrounding countryside where you can just relax or enjoy the beautiful views.
The hotel is a hideaway resort known for its calm, comfort, friendly service and welcoming staff. You will enjoy a unique holiday in a Gozitan atmosphere and escape into the beautiful nature with its flora and fauna and the clear blue sea. General use of the pool, jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and gym is included for the whole stay. It is also a good starting point to explore the sights of Gozo.
Facilities:
- Spa which includes heated sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, hydrotherapy bath, indoor and outdoor lagoon pool and offers treatments
- The pools are situated in the garden and are a good place to relax. The main pool is a family pool with a Jacuzzi and the other one is quieter and for adults only
- Sun terraces on the poolside
- Fully equipped gym overlooking the swimming pool. A consultation with a personal trainer is also possible
- The hotel has got its own private rocky beach and during the warmer months, you can expect umbrellas, sunbeds, showers and toilet facilities
- A concierge team
- The business centre with internet access, fax and photocopying machine and office supplies
- Two restaurants:
In the Il-Carubo they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner and you can eat under a 400-year old carob tree. Italian-inspired food and local specialities are served
The Il-Terrazzo is known for its exquisite dishes and has a terrace
- Bar
Room types
Double/Twin rooms: All of the room are on the ground level. They are spacious and have either a private patio or a terrace. Facilities include an en-suite bathroom, hairdryer, telephone, radio, cable TV, minibar, trouser press, a safe, heating and air-conditioning as well as teas and coffee making facilities.
Family rooms: These rooms are specially designed for families and offer enough space for everyone. There is a main bedroom with a seating area and a second room with two single beds. Each has either a patio or a terrace. The facilities include an en-suite bathroom, hairdryer, telephone, radio & cable TV, minibar, a trouser press, a safe, heating & air-conditioning as well as tea and coffee making facilities.
Trullo: These detached bungalows are circular and offer a unique place to stay. Each Trullo has a beehive style roof, a spacious seating area with a cable TV, an en-suite bathroom, hairdryer, telephone & radio, minibar, a trouser press, heating & air-conditioning, a safe and private patio.
Personalise
Personalise this tour
Our pick
E-biking
Gozo has a great deal to offer a cyclist. Our guides aim to avoid major hills and travel down the country roads and along sea cliffs to make the most of the spectacular views and quaint villages. Our guide will adapt to the level of the guests and offer a balance of easy, fun and technical riding.
This activity is available year-round but some may find it more strenuous in the hot summer months, mid-June to Mid-September.
Other options
Activities
Hiking
The local guides know every corner of the island and so once you have discussed your interests and fitness, they’ll guide you on a suitable hike. All routes are designed to take you into quieter areas with the best scenery.
Discover Scuba Diving (DSD), 1 or 2 dives
Gozo is renowned for its dive sites so what better place for you to discover scuba diving? Rather than take the plunge with a certification course, this introduction to diving will help you explore the underwater world without any prior experience.
You have the option of a one or two dive experience of the underwater world surrounding Gozo – supplements apply.
Sea kayaks
Sea kayaking allows you to marvel at the stunning views from a completely different perspective and explore Gozo's beautiful coastline. You can see wonderful beaches, sea caves and imposing cliffs. During paddling breaks, you can also snorkel and take a look at the underwater world.
It is possible to do this activity year-round but it is weather dependent. The main season runs from April to October.
Climbing and Abseiling
Experience the fun and thrill of climbing and abseiling the side of one of Gozo’s great cliffs. Expert guides will take you to the best locations on the island to suit your experience and climbing ability. You will learn safety techniques and as your confidence grows, so will your climbs and descents!
It is possible throughout the whole year, however, the main season is from October to May.
Segway tour
Segway tours are a unique, memorable and fun way to explore the island. They are eco-friendly, self-balancing, electric transportation vehicles and it is easy to learn how to ride them. Enjoy Gozo's hidden treasures by 'gliding' through the beautiful scenery without getting tired feet on this two-and-a-half-hour trip.
Extensions
Extend your stay at Cornucopia
If you don't want to leave Gozo just yet then we can arrange for you to extend your stay in order to take advantage of the other activities on offer here. Your extra night or nights will be spent in one of the double/twin rooms (based on two people sharing) and includes breakfast.
Extend your stay at Ta' Cenc
If you don't want to leave Gozo just yet then we can arrange for you to extend your stay in order to take advantage of the other activities on offer here. Your extra night or nights will be spent in one of the double/twin rooms (based on two people sharing) and includes breakfast.
Reviews
Traveller Reviews
Variety of photographic locations chosen by the guide throughout the week were excellent and kept us fully engaged. Local guide's knowledge of history, culture and geography was excellent and enhanced our experience. We appreciated the Gozo Adventure rep, Cornille, making the time and effort to meet us for coffee - he was extremely personable and a great ambassador.