What's the Weather like in Costa Dorada in January?
The year begins in Costa Dorada with some fairly chilly temperatures. In January, temperatures both in the morning and afternoon are cool enough to require a jacket and long sleeves. Additionally, sea surface temperatures are generally too cool for a swim in the nearby ocean.
Temperature
Overall, the average daily temperature for this time of the year is a cool 11°C (52°F). The overnight low temperature will fall to a chilly 6°C (43°F). This is cold enough for a jacket and long pants as well as a scarf if the wind is blowing. Temperatures will rebound in the afternoon, but still come in at a cool 16°C (61°F).
Rain
While it may be cool at this time of the year, it is almost always dry so vacationers can leave much of their rain gear at home. This is despite January being tied as the wettest month of the year alongside October. The region receives an average of 50mm of precipitation for the month with that rain coming over a 6-day period. With temperatures remaining above freezing, there is little chance of seeing any snow, but a cool rain can be expected if the precipitation happens later in the evening. The overall chance of rain is a slim 20 percent.
Sunshine Hours
Meanwhile, vacationers can still expect to see an average of 7 hours of sunshine each day. The chance of seeing a sunny day is at 100 percent. Therefore, when it does rain, it is usually short-lived and the sun will soon reappear.
Sea Temperature
While it might be nice enough to take in the sites on land, it may be too cold for vacationers to take advantage of numerous water sports. With an average sea surface temperature of 13°C (55°F) for the first month of the year, it is too cold to enjoy the water. Only the heartiest of souls may want to dive in and that will only be possible with the help of a wetsuit and only for a short period of time.
Hotels in Costa Dorada in January
Mercure Atenea Aventura
The 4-star Mercure Atenea Aventura hotel is one of the best for enjoying all that the region has to offer in January or any time of the year. The hotel is within minutes of the local theme park and within a short distance to the nearest beach. Guests can choose from 94 different rooms with types ranging from Standard and Superior rooms to Apartments and Suites. All rooms are tastefully appointed and fully equipped. The hotel also features a swimming pool, free transfer to the beach, restaurant, bar and swimming pool.
SunClub Salou Aparthotel
Set near the beach, the SunClub Salou Aparthotel is the perfect choice for those who want to be close to all the area attractions. Guests can take advantage of the swimming pool and rooftop terrace along with table tennis and billiards for more entertainment. There are also numerous restaurants, bars and shopping all within an easy walking distance. This is a great choice to be close to the action, but stay on a budget at the same time.
Hotel Termes de Montbrio Resort Spa and Park
For those looking for a luxurious setting, the Hotel Termes de Montbrio Resort Spa and Park might just be the answer. The hotel features a breakfast buffet and dinner restaurant specializing in local cuisine. Additionally, the hotel has six different room styles for every budget and guests can take advantage of the on-site spa and pool to spend time relaxing and getting away from the world.
Bars and Restaurant
Oliver's Restaurant and Grill
Oliver's Restaurant and Grill offers guests a comfortable atmosphere akin to an Irish pub, but located just off the Mediterranean coast. A wide array of chef's specials includes fish as well as chicken and BBQ ribs. Other dishes include homemade Italian meals and authentic Italian pizza. This is a great place to sit and stay while enjoying a few beverages and a great meal.
Can Bosch Restaurant
Those looking for fine dining in the area will find it at Can Bosch Restaurant. The recipient of a Michelin Star in 1984 is just one of the many accolades that the restaurant has achieved in the last 36 years. Dishes include some of the freshest seafood found in the area as well as locally grown fruits and vegetables. The restaurant is an experience not to be missed.
Koko Beach Club
With stunning views from the terrace, Koko Beach Club is one of the best places in Salou to wind down at the end of the day with a large cocktail and delicious dishes including some of the best hamburgers in town. There is also a nightclub downstairs for when the sun goes down and guests want to party the night away.
Things to do in Costa Dorada in January
Roman Aqueduct in Tarragona
Step back in time and visit the Roman Aqueduct in Tarragona for a look at ancient history. Used to transport water to the city of Tarragona from ancient times until recently, the aqueduct is now a walkway for tourists and other pedestrians. This 2,000 year old perfectly preserved bridge is a great place to stop and enjoy plenty of sunny January conditions and temperatures that are around 16°C (61°F). Be sure to admire the work from both the ground and from the top and take plenty of pictures to return home with.
Gaudi Centre Reus
If the weather happens to be on the chilly side, a visit to a museum may be in order. Located nearby is the Gaudi Centre Reus that pays homage to the life and the works of Gaudi. This new facility is fully equipped with the latest technology to bring the works to life and guide visitors through the museum without missing a single detail. The entire experience will allow visitors to delve into his work and the building also includes a tourist office, shop and restaurant.
Events
Tres Tombs
Despite the cooler conditions, this time of the year is busy with numerous festivals. It would be a great time to visit this side of Spain because of their town fiestas. Tres Tombs is a fiesta that is celebrated around the feast day of the 17th of the month of St. Anthony, the patron saint of animals. In Catalan "Tres" means three while "Tombs" means tour, so nothing Halloween like about this fiesta. This is actually a week-long celebration depending on what the town has planned but the highlight of the festivities is the procession of carriages and horses.
Falset the Encamisada de Sant Antoni
Falset the Encamisada de Sant Antoni is also celebrated annually during this time period wherein the villagers commemorate the difficulties they suffered during the War of Succession and they also rejoice surviving it.
The Festa de la Calcotada
Ever heard of a place where the entire village celebrates onions? In Valls, Tarragona they celebrate their onions with a passion. The Festa de la Calcotada is held annually during this time of the year, usually on the last Sunday of the month. Valls grows Calcots, a type of spring onion that is grilled and enjoyed with romesco sauce and wine. It is a gastronomical event that you should not miss.
