New on the UK market, it�s now possible to explore the Maltese island of Gozo by bike. More commonly known for gentle coastal hikes, and excellent diving in turquoise waters. The potential for cycling along its quiet country lanes has until now been overlooked.

Yet, Gozo is in many ways the perfect destination for a cycling break. Unlike many, more developed Mediterranean islands there�s no busy coastal highway to negotiate. The island capital, Victoria, (the only main town) has never known a real traffic jam! The gentle, undulating landscape of vineyards, almond orchards and poppy filled meadows offers some very flattering freewheels for the amateur cyclist. Another plus for those seeking gentle exercise, is that the routes are short (around 12 miles a day) so there�s plenty of time for lazy picnics and dips in the azure seas that fringe the island.

From September 06, Headwater will offer a 6 night cycling tour here. Cyclists will follow a circular itinerary from the exclusive ***** Hotel Ta Cenc that overlooks neighbouring Malta and Comino from its fragrant gardens. Next stop is the honey coloured, traditional village of Xaghra where they stay in a luxurious **** converted farmhouse. Then, after a �day off� exploring Calypso�s Cave (legend has it the nymph kept Odysseus captive here for seven years) it�s on past charming Marsalforn harbour where fishermen mend their nets on the jetty and the honeycomb of salt pans that line Gozo�s Northern shore to ***** Hotel San Lawrenz. Boasting one of Europe�s best spas (good news for those aching calves!) this is a great place to spend a lazy day. Then an exhilarating freewheel through Mediterranean garrigue gets you back to Hotel Ta Cenc in time for a relaxing massage in the spa or a swim in one of the panoramic pools before a final dinner on Gozo.

Headwater�s managing director, Catherine Crone commented, �Gozo has been perennially popular for us as a walking destination since we introduced it over seven years ago. We�re sure cycling holidays here will enjoy the same level of interest. The unspoilt nature of the island, the mild Mediterranean climate and the choice of high quality hotels make this a hard combination to beat when looking for a winter getaway.�

Headwater�s new Highlights of Gozo cycling holiday departs on selected dates between September 17th and May 27th 2007. Prices from �749, this includes: 6 nights accommodation on a HB basis in **** and ****** hotels, return flights to Malta and onward ferry transfer to Gozo, bike hire, all local transfers and bags moving service, cycling route notes and maps. To book call 01606 720199 or log on towww.headwater.com

Why not try it for yourself? Headwater is arranging a press trip here for 3 nights from the 12th October. For more information, or to request the new winter 2006/7 brochure contact Rachel Goldrick on 01606 720042, email: rachel.goldrick@headwater.com or Tina Delahunty on 01606 720041, email: tina.delahunty@headwater.com.