Gozo is a destination that has something to offer all year round. While the summer months tend to be the busiest on the island in terms of tourist activity, we believe that visiting in the off-peak months comes with a unique set of perks that summer cannot quite offer.
Let’s start with the weather.
The weather in autumn and spring is just warm and sunny enough for exploring the island on foot without getting uncomfortably hot. Following a hike or a walk amid nature, nothing is more invigorating than a refreshing dip in Gozo’s crystal-clear waters.
With an average surface temperature of 24°C, the sea in October is certainly still warm enough for a swim. Given that most locals would have put away their bathing suits in September, it is unlikely that you’ll have to share your bathing spot with many people. But we wouldn’t be totally honest if we did not tell you that October is also known for showers – so you’re equally likely to experience glorious weather one day and wet weather the next if you visit during this month.
While the sea is still cold in April and May, with the surface temperature not having yet reached the 20°C mark, mild air temperatures and around eight to 10 hours of glorious daily sunshine, set the perfect scenario for a picnic by the sea. Popular bays like Marsalforn and Ramla, which have many visitors during peak season, are much more tranquil in the off-peak months.
Visiting in the winter months will also allow you to bask in some sunshine and get a good dose of Vitamin D, before heading home to cooler climes. If you’d rather trade in a white Christmas for a golden one, then Gozo is the place to visit! December 2021 enjoyed 175 hours of sunshine and the month’s highest temperature almost nudged the 19°C mark on Boxing Day. December’s mild weather will also allow you to enjoy a number of outdoor Christmas in Gozo activities.
But there’s more to the island than good weather, right?
While good weather certainly allows you to make the most of your holiday, there are other things we love about Gozo, such as opera month.
Although Gozo appears to be a mere speck on a map, it is quite ambitious when it comes to opera productions. Every October – bar during the pandemic years – the island’s two main theatres, which are located just 200 metres apart on the capital’s main street, put up two spectacular opera productions.
From Puccini’s Madama Butterfly to Bizet’s Carmen, and Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor to Verdi’s Aida, the stages of the two opera houses have transformed again and again into the perfect backdrops for some of opera’s best-loved characters and reviled villains to come alive.
Have a browse through past productions by visiting Teatru Astra and Teatru Aurora.
But perhaps we’ve raved about October too much.
Okay, let’s move on to February now – the month that is associated with five days of colourful Carnival celebrations, which are bound to make your holiday on the island one to remember if you happen to be here during this period. While celebrations in the capital Victoria take place in the form of float parades and best costume and dance competitions, the Gozitan village of Nadur is known for its spontaneous Carnival. People who join the boisterous street celebrations tend to don scary masks and costumes, which often reflect the events the islands, and the world, would have been through in the preceding months.
Ask us for help
At Best of Gozo we’ve lived on the island of Gozo for most of our lives and we know most of its nooks and crannies. Do get in touch if you have any questions.
If you’re looking to book a holiday on the island, then look no further. Our farmhouses in Xagħra, Gozo, will guarantee a relaxing holiday in a traditional setting with a private pool for you to enjoy.
Have a look at some of the images below. You may also click here to get in touch to book your next holiday in Gozo.
