What's the weather like in Gumbert in December
Whilst you won't find much in the way of Christmas celebrations in Gumbet, other than from ex-pats who live there all year around, perhaps in Bodrum, you will experience a very chilled-out vibe around the resort, which is perfect for a festive break away from it all.
It is now winter in this part of Turkey, and although this does mean cooler temperatures and more in the way of rain, it doesn't mean ice, snow, and freezing cold weather, as is often the case with many other nearby European destinations at this time of year. Perhaps those seeking mild temperatures and simply a chance to see somewhere else, will enjoy this destination for a complete change.
Temperature
The average temperature throughout the month is around 13°C, although good days can see an average high reaching around 16°C. The main change is that evenings are certainly colder, with a low of around 9°C; you will see a marked difference between the day and night, especially as the temperatures drop around early evening, usually around 4pm or 5pm; so simply bear this in mind if you are out for the day and take a jacket.
Rainfall
The sun still shines in abundance, at around 5 hours per day on average, although rain can be more of an issue than previously. Most of the resort's rain falls during the winter months, and December sees around 110mm of rain on average throughout the month, which can affect around 10 days to a degree. Downpours can be sharp and they can occasionally be prolonged, however you will have prior warning of this if you check forecasts locals will always tell you when 'big rain' is coming!
Sea Temperature
Beach time is practically over until the warmer months arrive, with an average sea temperature of only 19°C now the cooler temperatures have arrived, meaning swimming is probably best kept until spring arrives. Despite that, a walk along the beach on a sunny, crisp day is a wonderful activity to enjoy at this time of year.
Gumbert Hotels for December
A laid-back holiday in Gumbet is very easily achievable in December, and this means you can explore, relax, and enjoy the slow pace of life which seeps into the resort now the main tourist hotspots are closed. You can still find plenty of accommodation available, including Aura Residence, which has a private beach with stunning views, and a terrace for sitting and soaking up those long sunny hours, despite the time of year.
Alternatively, Olivias Group Hotel is a comfortable budget choice, with free Wi-Fi and a bar for evenings where you simply want a few drinks in peace and quiet. Isiksay Apart Hotel is another good option, located around 300 from the beach, with a sea view terrace to enjoy a coffee or a cocktail. The on-site sauna and Turkish bath are great for relaxing, and the breakfast buffet will certainly set you up for the day.
Bars and Restaurants
If you are visiting Gumbet during the Christmas period, be aware that you obviously won't find many restaurants putting on the usual large Christmas meal, however there will be some establishments which cater for ex-pats and will have some kind of function on the big day this is really a case of asking around at the time, as there is no set rule in place. Despite this, there are many restaurants in which you can enjoy a delicious meal during December, and Mumtaz Mahal will certainly cater for your Indian food cravings, with a huge menu to choose from, and seriously delicious dishes on offer.
Baba Hotel Restaurant is part of the Baba Hotel and serves food on the beach or inside their restaurant. You can enjoy snacks during the day, or Turkish and British meals at night, with fresh pizzas made to order.
Alternatively, Bronze Corner has every kind of dish you could want on their large menu, and their cocktails are famous, including the delicious strawberry daiquiri, which despite the cooler temperatures should certainly be indulged in!
Things to do in Gumbet in December
December in Gumbet is a laid-back affair, and activities at this time of year are totally diverse and different compared to what you would normally get up to during the peak summer season, when life is generally about the great outdoors, particularly the beach, thanks to the higher temperatures. Despite December being the winter season, that shouldn't mean you will be bored!
You will find locals sipping traditional Turkish coffee or cay (tea) in cafes around the town, and this is a traditional laid-back pastime during the winter months.
If you're a cooking enthusiast, or you simply fancy giving it a go, how about a cookery class day out? Cooking Classes Bodrum offer day classes in Turkish cuisine, which is much easier than it looks to master! The spices contained in some traditional Turkish dishes are very finely balanced, and learning how to master such dishes will set you up for life, and really give you something to impress the folks back home with! Classes generally include a visit to the Bodrum Farmers' Market too, to collect fresh ingredients.
If you want to learn a different skill whilst you're away then Gokpinar Retreat Centre should be on your list. Here you visit a traditional Turkish village and learn skills such as Turkish rug weaving, the language itself, belly dancing, and more cookery. This is a great place to learn more about culture and traditions overall.
On a totally different trip, head to Escape Quest in Bodrum. This is a great activity if you're visiting with friends or as a family, as it is a group game. You are basically locked in a room and you have to solve puzzles and mysteries in order to escape! The activity lasts for an hour and is a fun way to spend the day, especially if you are caught in a shower, as can occasionally happen during this time of the year.
