What's the weather like in Gumbet in January
The first month of the year is typically the coldest overall, however despite that statement, you won't really be needing a hat, scarf and gloves! Gumbet's weather averages around 12°C throughout the month, with the mercury rising slightly to 15°C on good days, before falling to a chilly 8°C as an average evening low so you will be needing a coat for those evening walks around the resort. It may be winter, but it isn't the usual winter image you may have in your mind, thanks to that Mediterranean influence.
Sunshine Hours
Despite the cooler temperatures, the sun still shines more per day than many countries surrounding Turkey at this time, with an average of 5 hours of bright sunshine per day enough to help you get out and about throughout the daylight hours. Swimming in the sea however should probably be reserved for the summer months, as although the clear sea may look inviting, it averages only around 18°C throughout the month, making swimming and water-sports a little chilly to say the least.
Rainfall
One issue you may need to take into account if you're exploring the region is that most of the year's rain does tend to fall in the winter months, and although January certainly isn't the wettest month of the year, compared to March, it does experience around 90mm of precipitation throughout the month on average, which can affect around 9 days to some degree. The answer? Remember your umbrella, as downpours may be sharp, although don't generally last for hours at a time.
The resort may be known for its vibrant night-life and beach fun, however the winter months will show you a more laid-back side to the area, allowing you to visit some of the surrounding towns, experience Turkish culture, and get to know the friendly locals in the resort itself. Winter storms do bring rain, as we've mentioned, but keeping an eye on usually very accurate forecasts should bring you peace of mind before you set off.
Gumbet Hotels for January
Despite the fact January is clearly the coldest winter month of the year in Gumbet, and the heart of the off-season away from tourism, there are still many hotels and apartment complexes open during this time, catering for those who want to see a more authentic side to this purpose built resort, and the surrounding area. It is often during this time that people prefer a home away from home base, and in that case Ozukara 1 Apartments offer just that, as well as a B&B option for those who want to be spoilt a little. This is a family-run apartment block, which was recently refurbished to high standards, close to the resort's amenities and the beach.
If you prefer to be spoilt a little without needing to cook, then Serhan Hotel ticks those boxes, with a half board option on offer. There is an on-site café and kids' club, and it is located just a short stroll from the beach, with free Wi-Fi for those wanting to stay connected back home. Alternatively, Bodrum Beach Resort is located very close to Gumbet and Bodrum, and offers an upmarket base for your winter break, just five minutes from the centre of town.
Bars and Restaurants
Whilst Gumbet is famous for its nightlife, the pace of evening life is certainly a lot slower during the first month of the year. January may not be the neon-lit rave that June, July, and August can be, but it does offer a more authentic overview of life in the resort, which is what travel is all about.
Peter's Place is a great in-between restaurant, in that it is Turkish in origin, but has a more British feel too, so visitors won't feel like they are too out of their comfort zone. Run by Turkish and Irish owners, this restaurant has a large menu, and as it is family run, you can expect fresh and home cooked dishes as standard. Alternatively, Annalivia Restaurant is good value for money with its set menus, which means you can enjoy more for less money. The staff are renowned for being friendly and attentive, and the large wine selection will certainly help pass your evening in style.
If however you're feeling the need for some seriously international food then The Royal Restaurant will cater for your needs. Here you will find everything from Chinese, Indian, Turkish, and British dishes basically if you are a fussy eater then you will certainly find something here!
Things to do in Gumbet in January
The fact that January is the coldest month of the year should not stop you heading out and exploring Gumbet and the surrounding area. The weather may be cooler, but it is certainly not freezing, so simply throw on a coat and head out. Gumbet is mostly closed attraction-wise at this time of year, but is blessed to be within close proximity to many other towns and cities, such as Bodrum. This cosmopolitan city should certainly be explored, and the first month of the year is an ideal time to do just that.
The views from the top of the castle in Bodrum are simply stunning and certainly one for the camera. On top of this, the castle houses the very famous Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology, where you can explore objects salvaged from the sea and various wrecks around the area. This is an interesting way to spend a couple of hours, and is popular for a good reason.
Bodrum itself is a vibrant city, with many shops and places to stop for a coffee or refreshment. Bodrum Barlar Sokagi is a great place to visit, and this is an area of winding streets where you will find small clothes shops, restaurants and cafes. This is quite a cheap part of the city too, which is always a bonus! If you want something more mainstream however, head to Midtown Mall, where you will find Starbucks and big named stores to spend a few lira.
At the end of your day in Bodrum, head to Port Bodrum Yalikavak, and check out the expensive yachts. This is a port city, and the views across the water are stunning.
