The beautiful European island that's a balmy 22C in November

If you're chasing some late-year sunshine, the Mediterranean island of Gozo might just be your perfect escape. Often described as "what Malta used to be like," Gozo offers a slower, more laid-back alternative to its busier sister island, combining breathtaking natural beauty, ancient history, and year-round warmth.

Just a 25-minute ferry ride from Malta, Gozo is the second-largest of the five Maltese islands, yet it covers only 26 square miles. Despite its small size, the island is packed with hidden gems,from red sandy beaches and rugged cliffs to tranquil villages and scenic hills. Gozo's waters have been praised as "mesmerising bluish" by visitors on TripAdvisor, while others call the island a haven of "peace and tranquillity."

History is woven into every corner of Gozo.

The island is home to some of the world's oldest temples, including the Neolithic Ggantija Temples, constructed around 3600 BC, predating the Egyptian pyramids.

Victoria, the island's capital, locally known as Rabat, boasts the Citadel, a medieval fortress with panoramic views across the island. Gozo is also steeped in mythological lore, believed to be the home of Calypso, the nymph who, according to Homer's Odyssey, held Odysseus captive in a cave for seven years.

While the cave itself at Ramla Bay is now closed due to geological concerns, the island's legends continue to enchant visitors.

For adventurers and divers, Gozo has plenty to explore beneath the waves.

The Blue Hole, a vertical underwater chimney, connects to the open sea and offers a dramatic dive site featuring the remnants of the once-famous Azure Window, a limestone arch that collapsed during a storm in 2017 but remains a popular diving attraction.

Getting to Gozo is simple, though indirect. There are no direct flights to the island itself, but ferries depart every 30-45 minutes from Cirkewwa in northern Malta, arriving at Mgarr port.

The journey takes around 25-45 minutes and operates safely year-round, even when the Mediterranean waters get choppy. Malta is just over three hours from London by plane, with one-way fares starting from £29 in November.

Gozo enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with temperatures hovering around 22-23C in November.

While summer months bring the warmest weather and highest tourist numbers, the shoulder seasons offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, ideal for exploring beaches, walking the hills, or immersing yourself in the island's history.

Winters remain mild, with daytime highs of 16- 17 °C, and occasional light showers.

From its ancient temples and medieval fortresses to its stunning coastline and tranquil atmosphere, Gozo is a hidden gem in Europe, perfect for travellers seeking culture, adventure, and a touch of serenity.