Ta'Cenc Hotel & Spa ★★★★★

As the inhabitants of Gozo may tell you, it is on their island that the nymph Calypso seduced Ulysses and kept him prisoner for seven long years. But, when I step off the ferry and catch my first glimpse of the magnificent wild scenery and crystal-clear waters, I’m not sure Ulysses had much reason to resist.

Arriving at Ta ‘Cenc, I am surprised by its charm and simplicity; the architecture of the main building, which combines stone, wood, and glass, blends harmoniously with the ornate surrounding garden. Spread amongst the bougainvillea, lemon, and jasmine, the 74 guest rooms are housed in picturesque stone bungalows, forming a small village. The serenity here, is almost palpable.

My room boasts a beautiful private terrace, bound by a dry stone wall and offering views over the vibrant garden. It is spacious and light, decorated with modern furniture without the frills, and the walls are hung with pretty watercolours depicting natural scenes from Gozo. This goes hand in hand with the temporary art exhibits by local artists that line the lounges. Outside, two pools twinkle away under the sun. The tennis courts await the more active traveller, while for others, the hotel spa is the perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate.

The hotel’s Il Carrubo restaurant is an intimate affair with a charming, shaded patio overlook by a 400-year-old carob tree. Buffet breakfasts and delicious Mediterranean meals are eaten amongst the chic décor, characterised by white-clothed tables and braided chairs. At lunch time, Il Terrazzo pergola provides a slice of shade where visitors can tuck into grilled meat and fish whilst revelling in the amazing views.

Gozo, full of small, traditional villages and paradise beaches, is not lacking in things to do. On one day, the hotel shuttle took me to Kantra creek, an exquisite rocky beach set on shimmering waters with incredible snorkelling. Then there’s the citadel, the warm streets of the capital, Victoria, the Archaeological Museum, and the popular Folklore Museum. At night Victoria comes alive, with families pouring out onto the streets and generations coming festively together.

Gozo has many different sides; nature, history, and relaxing charm, to name just a few, and the Hotel Ta ‘Cenc & Spa is a welcoming point to start exploring it all from. Even so, I am sure seven years would not be long enough to discover every secret.