Xaghra has been selected as the 2015 Winner in the Tourism and Local Gastronomy category of European Destinations of Excellence (EDEN).

EDEN, aims to promote sustainable tourism development models across the EU. The initiative is based on national competitions and promotional campaigns that result in the selection and promotion of a tourist destination of excellence' for each participating country.

The European Commission website describes the village as follows: "The name Xaghra, on the island of Gozo, derives from a rocky plateau which was mainly used by hunters and as a recreational place. Nowadays, the Local Council still organises recreational activities, such as the Fig and Traditional Food Festival, where both locals and guests participate.

"Visitors can mingle easily with the local population in the various bars, restaurants and clubs in the area. During the summer season, visit the Ramla Bay for a dip in the Mediterranean Sea, and enjoy the shining sun throughout the year. Local gastronomy

"Every year the Figs Festival is organised by the Xaghra Local Council. Interest in the festival has been increasing ever since it was held for the first time. Providing both locals and foreign visitors with unique insight on Gozitan tradition, it also familiarises people with a healthy fruit which for many people would be beneficial as part of the daily diet.

"The Figs Festival is a traditional event which exposes Gozo's heritage, while at the same time giving visitors the chance to taste and buy fig-based products. The event is held on the main square of Gozo with the Church of Xaghra as the backdrop, enabling tourists to enjoy the beautiful architectural monuments located in Xaghra. The festival also includes traditional Maltese music and other activities," the European Commission description concluded.

Through the selection and promotion of destinations, EDEN effectively achieves the objective of drawing attention to the values, diversity and common features of European tourist destinations. It enhances the visibility of emerging, non-traditional European destinations, creates a platform for sharing good practices across Europe and promotes networking between awarded destinations.

This European quest for excellence in tourism is developed around an annual theme, chosen by the European Commission in conjunction with the national tourism bodies.

The key feature of the selected destinations is their commitment to social, cultural and environmental sustainability of tourism. The recipients of the award are emerging, little-known destinations located in the 28 EU countries and candidate countries. The EDEN initiative helps to spread the sustainable practices used in the awarded destinations across the EU.

The EDEN initiative was launched in 2006 by the European Commission, which plays a crucial coordinating role in administering the competition. Its tasks include encouraging dialogue among stakeholders, co-financing the national selection procedures and awareness-raising campaigns, organising the award ceremony and coordinating a comprehensive communication campaign.

Previous winners in Gozo and Malta were: Nadur in 2007, Hamlet of Santa Lucija in 2008, Hamlet of Maikata in 2009, Isla (Senglea) 2010 and Gharb in 2011.

Photographs: Alain Salvary

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