Ease your stress away and indulge in a holiday where you stay on the island of Gozo for at least seven nights at the participating properties. A longer holiday means you will have time to unwind and absorb the rural vibe of the island while taking the time to indulge in various adventures and tours to the prominent landmarks.  This season, bookings of 7 to 9 nights will be eligible for a discount of 20% off (up to a maximum of €200). The accommodation costs and stays of 10 nights or longer will have a better deal with discount savings of up to 30% (up to a maximum of €300).  These special offers are valid for stays between 2nd January and 15th March 2025, and reservations made from now to 1st March with any of the participating properties are eligible.    If you cannot get away for that long, maybe you can even consider a working holiday where you dedicate some time to your work remotely and spend the rest of the time soaking the island’s beauty in winter.

Winter bliss on a radiant island

If you land here on 2nd January, you can still bask in the last glowing events of the Christmas season, which typically ends on Epiphany (6th January).  Once the merry season is over, winter  in Gozo is a laid-back season where outdoor activities are a highlight.   While winter brings typically cold temperatures, it is nothing compared to the frigid northern hemisphere.  Indeed, most days bring the sun’s warm rays, and it is a joy to be out and about, discovering curious places, embarking on organised tours or charting a path on your own.  The country and the beaches await.

Create your itinerary

Nowhere is far away on the island, and planning your stay is straightforward. Make sure you spend a day discovering Victoria, Gozo’s capital city, which encapsulates a medieval Citadel, a Cathedral, and an amazing baroque Basilica (along with a string of chapels and churches). Wander through its narrow streets and stop at a café or a bistro for a quick stop or lunch.

Explore typical villages such as Xagħra, Ta’ Sannat and Għarb for a more down-to-earth vibe of the Gozitan way of life.    One cannot leave out Gozo’s most prominent landmarks and unique spots, such as Ġgantija Temples, Ta’ Pinu Shrine, the Inland Sea at Dwejra, Ramla Bay, the salt pans areas in Xwejni, Wied il-Mielaħ, Wied il-Għasri and Ta’ Ċenċ cliffs.

Outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling in the countryside should also be considered. Several exciting trails meander through countryside and coastal areas, passing by close to the coastal towers of which Gozo boasts quite a number.   You can consider Tuk-tuk or Segway adventures if hiking is off the cards.  Adrenalin seekers will appreciate that the island, despite its small size, is akin to an outdoor playground with a number of daring abseiling spots, kayaking and even extreme cycling routes.    Nature lovers will enjoy the sprawling countryside, the valleys and the hills and will seek out places like Lunzjata Valley and the Għammar Hill Trail.  If you’re into photography, winter in Gozo offers a vivid palette that literally needs no filter to embellish the captured memory.  Chasing sunset, but the equally poignant sunrise is truly rewarding and even stormy days will yield plenty of visually stimulating views of land and sea. For the ultimate raw island appeal, organise a trip to the island of Comino, which is usually like a forlorn spot during this time of the year.

Once you’re in Gozo for a seven- or more-day holiday, you cannot miss out on spending a day in Valletta. Malta’s capital is a unique European city full of treasures.

A laid-back holiday is also about the bliss of doing nothing, and you can organise your stay as a wellness retreat.   Gozo’s calendar of events is typically peppered with a variety of activities. Stay up to date by bookmarking this site www.eventsingozo.com.  One major highlight of the season is the Carnival celebration which in 2025 will be held at the beginning of March.

Gozo’s winter cuisine  is traditionally based on warming soups and hearty dishes.  Ask for the widow’s frugal soup (soppa tal-armla); the Gozitan minestrone (minestra), best described as Gozo’s fields bounty in one pot; or the fish soup (aljotta).  Wintertime is also typically associated with fresh cheeselets used in dishes like ravioli and homemade cheesecakes (a concoction of flaky pastry encasing a salty cheese filling).   Dining out can be a casual affair but equally a more refined experience.   Weekends are usually busy, so booking your table at popular restaurants would be recommended.

Booking your accommodation

To take advantage of this offer, you can stay at participating accommodation options.   Booking can be made through the property website or popular travel portals such as Booking.com, Airbnb, Expedia, and others.  Eligible bookings can be made from 24th October 2023 right up to 1st March 2025 and for a minimum of 7 nights at the same hotel or property.  The hotels and properties will directly offer discounts.

Whether you’re planning a romantic interlude with your loved one (after all, Valentine’s Day will fall within this period), a family holiday, or a getaway with your group of friends or comrades, winter in Gozo promises an extended holiday, leaving you with refreshed, energised, and inspiring memories.