October 25, 2023

Pack your bags quickly and head out to Gozo, a perfect destination in the Mediterranean, particularly during the autumn season. Those who visit the island can quickly sense the enchanting influence of the four key elements.

Antiquity’s learned scholars and philosophers were just as awestruck as present-day scientists since earth, water, air, and fire have captivated humanity for countless years. To experience the potency and enchantment of these four elements daily, there’s no better destination in autumn than Gozo. Upon arrival on the Mediterranean isle, visitors soon realise that no two days are alike – a refreshing deviation from the usual routine back home. Explore the rugged terrain on a bike ride or leisurely stroll, take a dip in the comfortably warm Mediterranean Sea until November, hike up the rolling hills for a stunning panoramic view, or lounge in the sun – on Għawdex, as the locals fondly refer to their island, the elements harmoniously unite to offer a sublime experience.

Fire

But don’t fret at the sound of the term “fire“. In Gozo, this actually pertains to the sun, the most significant celestial fireball. It cannot be emphasised enough that Gozo and its sister island, Malta, typically receive approximately 300 days of sunshine annually. This perk alone is a determining factor for travellers who crave warmth and light. The Mediterranean autumn can persist on both islands until the Christmas holidays. Besides, let’s not neglect the manifold positive effects, unequivocally associated with the four elements, that a trip to Gozo can offer. It’s worth examining these aspects more closely and, most importantly, their abundance.

Earth

Because there is a lot of power in the soil: Farmer Giovan is now harvesting fresh vegetables and fruit again in the autumn.

Moving on to the earth, which produces a considerable amount of crunchy fruit and vegetables on our sunny island. Currently, in the Gozitan autumn months, the farmers are diligently reaping the final harvest of 2023. Among these growers stands our esteemed friend, Giovan Buttigieg, who not only excels as a fisherman but also possesses a remarkable talent for cultivating the fields. It’s evident that the soil here possesses an immense potency. Giovan presents us with a diverse range of delectable, sun-ripened produce, including luscious olives, bright red peppers, aubergines, pumpkins, figs, pomegranates and the first lemons and oranges. Practically everything that forms part of the renowned Mediterranean diet grows in Giovan’s sunny fields. We have an extensive array of southern fruits and delightful vegetables eagerly awaiting their harvest.

My recommendation: Experience firsthand the bountiful and vibrant Mediterranean fruits grown in the terraced fields during your autumn break in Gozo.

Because there is a great deal of power in the soil: Giovan Buttigieg and the autumn produce of Gozo.

A handy tip for those visiting Gozo: numerous small, rural businesses utilise their personal delivery lorries to transport their agricultural goods to nearby villages. Should you spot one of these vehicles parked in the alleys, queue up and make your selection – payment in euros is accepted throughout Malta and Gozo. Additionally, various local supermarkets such as “Daily Fresh” in Xewkija (do check out their Facebook page) not only offer imported goods but also a plethora of local fruits and vegetables. After purchasing fresh produce, it can be quickly prepared in the fully equipped kitchens of the apartments at Villa Marni. This ensures the produce is delivered straight to the table with minimal delay.

Air

Further and further up into the air - until the colourful kite is kissing the sky

Go all the way up with your kite and touch the sky at the Kite & Wind Festival in Għarb, which takes place in the autumn on the island of Gozo.

Kissing the deep blue sky with a kite at a lofty height is precisely what many enthusiastic kite pilots do at the famous Kite & Wind Festival. Happening only in the autumn, this event adds a special touch to the time spent on Gozo. The festival is held in the northernmost part of the island, close to the San Dimitri Chapel, near the village of Għarb. Participants attend from far and wide, including China, Mexico, Italy, the UK, Australia, Japan, the USA, and Brazil. The event is also popular with German kite enthusiasts.

Each participant releases their stunning, mostly self-constructed, and uniquely designed kite on the line. The wind then carries the constructions at lightning speed to extraordinary heights throughout the two-day event. Over 700 kites of various colours and shapes launch into the air, creating an unparalleled spectacle for onlookers, even visible from a long distance with the sea in the background.

Make a note in your mobile phone calendar and promptly search for the upcoming dates. Rest assured that the Kite & Wind Festival in Għarb will occur in autumn 2024.

Climbing the Way of the Cross opposite the Ta’ Pinu pilgrimage church rewards you with a breathtaking view from the top.

To experience the element of air, here is an entirely different tip: directly opposite the pilgrimage church of Ta’ Pinu (visited by Pope Francis in April 2022), which is absolutely sacred to Gozitans, there is a Way of the Cross that leads up to one of the highest points on the island. As is appropriate for a Via Crucis, the Passion of Christ is depicted on the way up with an impressive sequence of sculptures, which are definitely worth viewing for any visitor, even if they are not themselves connected to Christian churches. The artistic value of the sculptures in the Stations of the Cross – coupled with the stunning panorama of the island from its peak – justifies the slightly challenging ascent, as I have come to realise on multiple occasions…

Water

Bathing fun in October 2023: Gozo makes it possible with a water temperature of 26 degrees Celsius.

Once you reach the top, the Mediterranean glistens on the horizon, one of Gozo’s distinguishing features, just like the many beautiful church buildings or the breathtaking sunsets. Just today, on the 19th of October, I went for a swim in Xlendi Bay again. Several other holidaymakers had the same plan. Overhearing conversations, I learned that the individuals came from Scandinavia, Italy, Spain, and, I am unsure, possibly the Czech Republic for a day of bathing enjoyment. Before any readers ask, the water temperature remains at a pleasant 26°C throughout October. The photos I captured today depict the small diving tower situated at the end of Xlendi Bay. During summer, visitors often queue for a while before it’s their turn to jump into the clear waters of the Mediterranean.

Jumping into the Mediterranean Sea at a pleasant 26 degrees Celsius presents no obstacle at Xlendi Bay during October 2023.

However, swimming in October or not, if you are reading my October blog now, Christmas is fast approaching. This is a significant time of year for international visitors to Gozo. Of course, when the time comes, I will tell you about all the exciting events and happenings in the Christmas blog for December. Nevertheless, this much is certain: there are bigger islands than Gozo, but few with a Christmas programme as attractive as Gozo’s.

PS: Finally, something entirely different for your information today – upon arrival in Gozo, regardless of the season, a handwritten postcard remains a great way to send a heartfelt greeting to your homeland. You will undoubtedly find the perfect postcard image on this island, as countless possibilities are available. However, exercise careful judgement when selecting stamps, which are available for purchase at “Malta Post” and various souvenir shops. In a recent philatelic contest between 13 European countries, Malta – and, by extension, Gozo – triumphed with two notably successful stamps.

The stamps depict two motifs that epitomise the culture and identity of Malta and Gozo. The first design showcases a small bottle of “Kinnie“. This is the most popular local soft drink here on the islands. Very tasty, it is brewed from bitter orange and wormwood extracts with a bit of carbonation. The second award-winning stamp presents the Luzzu, a colourful wooden fishing boat, one of the Gozitan and Maltese landmarks.

If you arrive soon, you’ll spot numerous Luzzus in the harbour basins and out on the sea.
To set the scene for this iconic sight, take a look at the final photo here…