In October in Mellieha, the weather begins to cool down and the rain gets more frequent as autumn begins. This is still a lovely time of the year to visit the area, as the summer crowds have gone, the days are not as hot and humid, and outdoor activities are still a good option. The days are getting shorter, with around 7 hours of sunshine each day, and the length of days decreasing by approximately one hour from the beginning of the month to the end. Daylight saving ends in October, so the clocks go back one hour and sunrise and sunset are an hour earlier at the end of this month.
With temperatures similar to those seen in Naples in Italy, the average temperature at this time of year is gradually decreasing and is now 210C, while the high temperature for the month is 240C and the average low is 170C. The temperature has got as high as 330C in previous years, and dropped as low as 110C. For visitors who are keen for a swim, the sea temperature is still a warm 230C, so on the warmer days of the month, there are still opportunities for a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean.
October days are still fairly clear and the cloud cover varies from 35% to 45%, increasing in cover by around 10% over the course of the month. The amount of rainfall is increasing over this month, with around 90mm of rain falling over 10 days during this month. Rain is most likely to occur at the end of the month, occurring on 50% of days compared to just 35% of days earlier on in the month. Most of the rain will be moderate showers, with occasional thunderstorms.
The humidity is becoming less of a problem, as the cooler temperatures mean even the more humid days are not too unpleasant. Humidity ranges from 55% to 95% and often gets more humid towards the end of the month. Wind speeds are generally quite light and vary between 0 m/s to 6 m/s with some windier days with stronger breezes of 10 m/s. Make sure to have a look at the forecast before travelling to decide what to pack for your holiday.
Where to stay
For those who prefer self-catering on their holiday, the Seaside apartments are centrally located in Mellieha, only a 10-minute walk from the Ghadira beach and close to all the surrounding facilities of the village such as shops, restaurants and bars. The apartment is decorated in a modern style, and has a balcony and terrace. There is a fully equipped kitchen, and living room with flat screen TV and cable channels. The property is close to the bus stop with links to the harbour and surrounding towns and an airport shuttle service can be arranged.
The lovely Garden View apartment is situated in Mellieha, with stunning views over the Ghadira Bay and Gozo island. With two bedrooms, one with en-suite, a fully-equipped kitchen, a large living and dining area and terrace as well as a balcony, this is a great property to base yourself when visiting in the autumn. There is also a lift, so elderly guests or those with young children will find it easy to access. There are many things to do in the area, with shops, restaurants and bars nearby, while exploring the local village markets and churches are within easy reach.
The 3* Mellieha Holiday Centre is a great hotel for anyone visiting the resort, with a variety of lovely bungalows on offer that sleep up to five adults. Set in extensive gardens, with a rooftop terrace overlooking the sandy bay, several restaurants, and a large swimming pool, other activities on offer are tennis courts, children's playground and a mini golf course. The bungalows are spacious and well-equipped with a lounge, kitchen and separate bedrooms. They all have a fridge, TV, and coffee making facilities. The amenities of the town are close by and there is plenty to do both on and off the resort.
Things to do
For visitors interested in history, the De Redin Coastal Towers are fortifications that are all around Malta and Gozo. Built over a sixty-year period from 1601-1660, these towers were built as either watchtowers or for strength and armed defence against invaders. The most famous of these includes the Red Tower at Mellieha and the nearby Wignacourt Tower at St Paul's Bay. The Red Tower, also known as St Agatha's tower, was built in 1647 and manned with 30 soldiers and a cannon ready for potential invasion. It continued to act as a defence tower during the British period of Maltese history.
During the cooler months is the best time to get active and what better way to see the island and keep active than to hire a bike? Rent high quality mountain bikes that are well-maintained and serviced regularly so you can be sure of a safe and fun experience. Rent a bike for the day or longer and get out and have a look around the local area while taking in the beautiful scenery, or go with a group bike tour and get the inside information about where to go and what to see when out on the bikes.
Eating and drinking out
For a special dinner, go to the Arches restaurant and wine cellar in the town of Mellieha. This award winning restaurant serves delicious food in a fine dining setting. There is wine tasting on offer, as well as beautifully prepared and presented dishes, with an extensive wine list, a varied menu, and delicious desserts. The service is attentive and high quality, and the choice of a set menu gives diners the opportunity to try some fantastic dishes. Make this the place to go to when visiting the resort and looking for something a bit special.
For a welcoming atmosphere at a friendly pub/restaurant head to Ta Kanani bar in Mellieha. This restaurant serves great value and tasty international dishes such as pizza, pasta and a fantastic Sunday roast dinner. The portions are large and are perfect for a family lunch or dinner out of your hotel. The English owners will make you feel at home when you come down for something to eat or drink with family or friends, and you will make new friends here with the regulars over a few pints.
A lovely little restaurant for a quiet lunch or dinner is the Zefferino restaurant. This family run restaurant in Mellieha serves great food for lunch and dinner, with dishes including fish platters, rabbit, salads, breads and desserts. The portion sizes are generous and the atmosphere is warm, welcoming and inviting as diners enjoy the views from the veranda, while meeting the hosts. The meals are good value for money, making this restaurant well worth the visit.
