It’s a blissful (and affordable) sanctuary for those yearning to avoid the swarming hordes and tourist mayhem of other popular European sunshine hotspots.
There’s something for every type of traveller on this breathtaking island(Image: Getty)
A breathtaking island boasting a fascinating history and spectacular scenery is being championed as a ‘deserted paradise’ – ideal for UK residents seeking a peaceful retreat in February or March to flee the miserable winter weather (and heaving masses at other popular holiday hotspots).
Having established itself as the ‘sister island’ to another well-known destination, this European holiday gem is genuinely distinctive and celebrated for its untouched appeal.
Spanning merely 3.5 square kilometres, this obscure island within the Maltese Archipelago is practically uninhabited, with just two permanent residents living there.
In that sense, it’s genuinely a ‘deserted paradise’ – a perfect escape for those yearning to avoid the bustling crowds and tourist mayhem of other European sunshine destinations.
February and March bring average temperatures between 16C and 18C to this secluded island, making it a perfect spot for those wanting to bask in the winter sunshine without getting burnt, reports the Express.
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Regarded as a sanctuary for swimmers, snorkellers, walkers and photographers – visitors are known to journey from across the globe simply to savour a taste of life in this deserted paradise.
Comino, renowned for its absolutely stunning Blue Lagoon, is a treasure hiding in plain sight just begging to be discovered. With no towns – and therefore no vehicles – experiencing Comino is genuinely an adventure unlike any other.
A dramatic limestone terrain, impossibly blue crystalline waters, secluded bays and breathtaking vistas are merely some of the features that set this tiny European isle apart from the crowd.
Delivering both excitement and serenity, Comino boasts a captivating landscape, ideal for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature – all whilst keeping costs pleasantly manageable.
Getting to Comino from the UK is remarkably simple – visitors can fly into Malta International Airport, which serves as the sole major commercial aviation hub in the Maltese islands.
At the time of writing, a one-way ticket from London Stansted Airport to Malta on February 26 would cost holidaymakers just £35, including one complimentary cabin bag.
From there, travellers on mainland Malta can hop aboard one of the regular ferries departing from Ċirkewwa ferry terminal, which will transport you to Comino in approximately 35 minutes.
Meanwhile, those already on Malta’s sister island of Gozo can complete the brief journey to Comino from Mġarr Harbour in a swift 15 minutes using water taxis or compact ferries.
If the balmy weather and budget-friendly flights weren’t enticing enough – Comino, despite being largely uninhabited, provides reasonably priced drinks.
While the island itself doesn’t offer a huge amount of food and drink options – a small price to pay for absolute tranquillity – the few available spots (food and drink kiosks near popular snorkelling and hiking areas) are known to sell pints ranging from £2.60 to £4.
However, holidaymakers seeking a wider variety of culinary choices need not worry, as Comino’s neighbouring sister islands, Malta and Gozo, have plenty to offer.
An island steeped in history
As of 2026, the island is inhabited by just one family, the globally recognised Vella family, who hold the distinction of being the last people on Comino within the Maltese archipelago.
Despite its diminutive size, Comino has a rich and complex history that belies its physical dimensions. The sun-drenched island was once a favoured hideout for pirates during the medieval period, owing to its numerous sea caves.
In 1618, the Knights of St. John fortified the island by constructing the still-standing Santa Marija Tower, which served as both a guard station and a signalling point between the Maltese islands.
The island’s name, Comino, derives from ‘kemmuna’, meaning cumin, a spice that was once harvested extensively on the island. Historically, the island has also functioned as a quarantine station during the Napoleonic era and was renowned for being a game reserve abundant with wild boar and hares.
Today, Comino is celebrated for its pristine landscapes and historical sites, drawing day-trippers from Malta and Gozo seeking the perfect natural retreat steeped in peace and quiet.
Things to do in Comino
Despite its modest size, Comino boasts an impressively diverse range of activities and attractions, guaranteeing something to captivate every visitor who arrives on its compact coastline.
The island’s crowning glory – and arguably that of the entire Maltese archipelago – is the world-famous Blue Lagoon, which lives up to its reputation as a jewel in Comino’s crown, luring visitors to its strikingly white sands and sparkling turquoise waters throughout the year.
Nestled between Comino and the tiny islet of Cominotto, it’s an idyllic destination for snorkellers and swimmers, offering unparalleled glimpses of the exotic marine life inhabiting this shallow bay.
By contrast, Santa Marija Bay sits on Comino’s more peaceful side, presenting a tranquil beach and gentle waters – minus the throngs of tourists found at the Blue Lagoon.
The Santa Marija Caves also rank among Comino’s must-see attractions, showcasing a complex system of sea caves and striking underwater rock formations that delight snorkellers and divers alike.
History enthusiasts and hiking aficionados can make the journey up to the iconic Santa Marija Tower, or St Mary’s Tower, the magnificent 17th-century stone fortress constructed by the Knights of St John. Cinema lovers might recognise this famous tower as the Château d’If from The Count of Monte Cristo.
The whole of Comino can be traversed on foot in roughly three hours, establishing it as a prime destination for walkers as they navigate thyme-bordered wilderness trails, catching glimpses of exotic migratory birds, remarkable lizards and stunning coastal vistas.
