Burmarrad vs Gharb
Side-by-side comparison of property prices, lifestyle, and practical info to help you choose the right area.
Summary
Burmarrad suits families seeking affordable larger properties in mainland Malta, while Gharb is the better choice for nature lovers, retirees, and tourists wanting a traditional Gozo farmhouse lifestyle. Burmarrad scores 8/10 for family living and safety, with property prices among the most affordable in the St. Paul's Bay area. A car is essential — the nearest amenities are a 5-minute drive away in St. Paul's Bay, and bus route 49 provides limited connections to Valletta. Malta International Airport is 30 minutes by car.
Gharb, located on Gozo's western hilltop, rates 9/10 for safety and offers sunset views from one of the island's oldest village squares. Property prices are among Gozo's lowest, with traditional farmhouses featuring courtyards. However, public transport is poor, with infrequent route 311 buses to Victoria requiring a 5-minute drive for most needs. Reaching Malta's airport takes over 90 minutes including the Ċirkewwa ferry crossing, which is 20 minutes north by car from Burmarrad.
Living in Burmarrad
Burmarrad is a small residential area on the inland edge of St. Paul's Bay — a flat, rural-feeling neighbourhood of modern houses and smallholdings that sits between the coast and the agricultural land of the Pwales Valley. It's not a traditional village with a church square; it's a spread-out residential community that grew as St. Paul's Bay expanded inland. The surrounding Pwales Valley is one of Malta's few remaining agricultural areas, with small farms producing vegetables, strawberries, and the tomatoes that go into Malta's famous sun-dried tomato paste. The valley floor is flat and green — a rarity in Malta — and the distant view of the Mellieha ridge provides a pleasant backdrop. Property in Burmarrad is among the most affordable in the St. Paul's Bay area. Buyers get larger properties with gardens — almost unheard of in coastal apartments — at prices well below the seafront. The trade-off is distance from the coast and a car-dependent lifestyle.
Highlights
- Pwales Valley — one of Malta's few agricultural areas
- Larger properties with gardens at affordable prices
- Flat terrain and open countryside views
- Part of the St. Paul's Bay area but quieter
- Close to Mistra Bay and Xemxija
Living in Gharb
Gharb is one of Gozo's oldest villages, perched on a hilltop in the far west of the island with views stretching to the sea on two sides. The name means 'west' in Arabic — an accurate description of its position at Gozo's western extreme. The village is tiny, conservative, and deeply traditional, with a picturesque square that's one of the most photographed in Gozo. The square is anchored by a charming church and a collection of historic buildings that include what's said to be the oldest freestanding house in Gozo. The Gharb Folklore Museum occupies a 300-year-old building and displays traditional Gozitan crafts, tools, and household items. The Ta' Dbiegi craft village nearby is where local artisans produce handmade glass, lace, and pottery. Property in Gharb includes some of Gozo's most charming traditional farmhouses, many with thick limestone walls, internal courtyards, and roof terraces with sunset views. Prices are low, and restoration projects are common. The village is very quiet — too quiet for some — but for buyers seeking the authentic Gozitan experience, Gharb is the genuine article.
Highlights
- One of Gozo's oldest and most photographed village squares
- Traditional farmhouses with courtyards and sunset views
- Gharb Folklore Museum in a 300-year-old building
- Ta' Dbiegi craft village with local artisans
- One of Gozo's most affordable locations
Lifestyle Comparison
Which Area Is Right For You?
Choose Burmarrad
Burmarrad comes out ahead in family, beaches .
Choose Gharb
Gharb comes out ahead in dining, safety .
