Autumn’s in the air

Gozo is an island for all seasons but there is no doubt that it is a stunning Autumn destination.

As the scorching summer weather evaporates, Gozo breathes revival and after the first rain, the island’s countryside awakens, as in Spring. Once school children settle back at their desks, the idyllic and serene Autumn days are here.  The balmy weather still means days and weeks of sunshine – perfect not only for spending days in the countryside discovering new routes and footpaths but brilliant for photo-taking.

Whether you prefer a steep walk up a hillside, a moderate cycling route or a lazy day at the beach, Gozo will thrill you!    It’s also the ideal time to explore the villages and their main squares where you can enjoy local life as it unfolds unhurried in blissful daily routine, maybe over a glass of wine or a local ftira, hot from the traditional wood fired ovens. Those who love the sea cannot ignore the call of the fair skies, the blue water, the deserted beaches and the fact that the sea is still warm enough for a swim.

Autumn in Gozo is also a special time associated with several events and traditions. From the Qala International Folk Festival, the artisan market in San Lawrenz village square to the night of traditional Gozitan food and entertainment at Għasri, there’s a lot to enjoy.   If you’re intent in experiencing a typical rural Gozitan holiday, you might want to opt to book one of the many welcoming self-catering farmhouses that are scattered all over the island’s countryside.  Many of these cozy abodes are also very luxurious and comfortable!  But there are many other options when it comes to accommodation.

Beside the traditions and rural aspects, Autumn’s highlight must be the exciting opera season.  Gozo’s two theatres, located in the main street of Victoria, basking in the glow of the iconic Citadel, the Aurora and the Astra Theatres have ensured that over the years Gozo gains outstanding recognition in the operatic world.   This year marks the 40^th anniversary since the Aurora theatre held its first production and to celebrate this milestone, it will be staging two operas on the same night.  Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticana and Leoncavallo’s I Pagliacci will be presented on the 14^th of October!   Astra Theatre will present the opera production of Lucia di Lammermoor on the 26 and 28 October 2017.

Autumn holds the promise of a tranquil holiday and the glamour of an evening at the opera.    We know that it’s simply a delight to be out and about at this time of the year and a visit to the island is kind of … obligatory!