Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea between Malta and Gozo is an enchanting island, Comino. Known for its famous blue lagoon, it is a small island in the Maltese Archipelago and is the tiniest of the three main islands—Malta, Gozo, and Comino. Locally known as ‘Kemmuna’ it covers just 3.5 square kilometers. Although most of the island is uninhabited, it is known for its beautiful landscapes and peaceful environment. Its rocky land and limited plant life make it quite different from the busy cities of Malta and Gozo. With only two permanent residents, this island has a quiet atmosphere that many people enjoy.
Climate and The Best Time to Visit
This island experiences a typical Mediterranean climate, so it is mostly sunny for most of the year and the temperature can range from 20ºC to 40ºC. The best time to visit is between April to May and October to November. During these months, you can take a ferry or boat trip and enjoy a more relaxing vacation as there will be less crowd. If you’re thinking about visiting between December and March, keep in mind that it can be windy and rainy, and it usually gets too cold for swimming.
The Rich History
Comino has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It has been inhabited since at least 218 BC, primarily by farming communities. During the Roman era, it was used for its natural resources and strategic position. In the 1500s, the island came under the control of the Knights of St. John, who used it as a hunting ground and fiercely protected its wildlife, particularly wild boars and hares. The Knights also constructed a watchtower on the island, which served as a lookout point to communicate with Malta and Gozo using smoke and fire signals. In the 19th century, under British rule, it was repurposed as a quarantine station during outbreaks of infectious diseases.
Today, this island is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for tourists. Despite its small size, with only a few permanent residents, it attracts visitors for its beaches and nature reserves.
Exploring the Maltese Culture
The culture is deeply influenced by the wider Maltese culture, which is made up of many traditions, beliefs, and practices. Over time, this culture has grown by mixing different influences, including those from the Romans, Arabs, and British. Local traditions, like fishing techniques and salt production, have been handed down through the years.
The island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities such as snorkeling, diving, and hiking are popular, thanks to the island’s stunning landscapes and clear waters. The Blue Lagoon is particularly famous for its vibrant blue waters, attracting visitors for swimming and sunbathing. Some of the places to explore the culture and beauty of this stunning island are,
1. Blue Lagoon
As mentioned before in this article, Blue Lagoon is a beautiful spot and one of the best beaches in Malta. Its bright turquoise water attracts visitors from all over the world. This beach becomes very popular during summer because of its clear water and soft white sand, making it a great place for a beach vacation. It is sheltered from waves, offering a gorgeous view of the turquoise water and inviting white sand, creating a lovely atmosphere.
2. Crystal Lagoon
It gets its name from its clear, sparkling waters and is often overshadowed by the more popular Blue Lagoon. However, the Crystal Lagoon is just as beautiful as its famous neighbor. The clean waters are surrounded by cliffs, so the only way to get there is by boat. Because it’s quieter and less well-known, it is a peaceful spot for swimming and snorkeling in the cool waters.
3. Santa Marija Bay
This bay is a 30-minute walk from the well-known Blue Lagoon. It has a small sandy beach and provides a peaceful getaway for visitors. You can discover small sea caves and impressive limestone cliffs that stand out against the blue water here.
4. Comino Caves
One of the natural wonders of this Island is the stunning Comino Caves. These deep caves were formed over many years by the strong waves of the Mediterranean Sea. They are popular with locals from Malta and Gozo, as well as tourists, and visiting them is an unforgettable experience. You can explore well-known caves like Lovers Cave, Popeye Cave, Santa Marija Caves, Crystal Lagoon Tunnel Cave, Blue Lagoon Cominotto Cave, and Monte Cristo Cave. Each of these caves has beautiful clear blue waters and amazing rock formations.
5. St. Mary’s Tower
One of the most impressive, and smallest man-made structures on this island is St. Mary’s Tower, known locally as “It-Torri ta’ Santa Marija.” This watchtower was built in the early 17th century by the Knights of the Order of Saint John to protect against pirates. While there are similar towers around Malta, St. Mary’s Tower is a significant piece of history.
6. Santa Marija Chapel of Our Lady’s Return From Egypt
The only religious building on this Island is a Roman Catholic chapel dedicated to Our Lady’s Return From Egypt. This 400-year-old chapel overlooks Santa Marija Bay and features three bells displayed in archways at the top. While the outside of the chapel looks simple and old, the inside has a beautiful Neo-Gothic style with pointed arches. Although there are no set opening hours, the chapel is worth seeing, even from the outside.
7. Il-Batterija ta’ Santa Marija
The Battery of Santa Marija locally known as Il-Batterija ta’ Santa Marija, was built in 1715 by The Knights of St. John to protect against a possible Ottoman invasion, along with other coastal defenses around Malta. It was designed to hold four 6-pounder guns and had an opening wall facing the sea.
How to Reach This Island?
The easiest way to visit Comino and the Blue Lagoon from Malta is to take a boat trip with Comino Ferries. You have two popular choices: a small local ferry that leaves from the Cirkewwa Ferry Terminal, near the Gozo Channel Ferry, or a motorboat that departs from Marfa.
Tips for Travellers
- Make sure to protect yourself from the sun by packing important items like sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and an umbrella for the hot summer days when the sun can be scorching.
- Think about the weather and your plans for the day when visiting Comino. Comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes are a must, especially if you plan to explore the island’s trails.
- Ferries and boat trips can get crowded, especially during the busy tourist season. To avoid long lines and delays, it’s a good idea to buy your tickets in advance.
- Ferries and boats run on a schedule, so make sure to get to the meeting point at least 20 minutes before your departure time. This will give you enough time to board without rushing.
- While there are kiosks and snack bars on the island, prices can be high. Consider bringing your own snacks and drinks to save money and have more choices.
Comino, Malta is a hidden gem with rich natural beauty, history, and culture. Its serene landscapes and vibrant marine life make it heaven for adventure seekers and people who are looking to relax. You can hike around the island, swim in the beautiful Blue Lagoon, and learn about its interesting history. This island feels like a calm escape from the busy world, giving you a chance to enjoy the nature this hidden gem offers.
