December is a lovely month to visit Mogan, with much warmer temperatures than in northern Europe, and similar conditions to Bermuda. Days are around the same length each day, with 8 hours of sunshine per day, the shortest of the year. The sunrise is at around 7.35am at the beginning of this month and sunset is at 6pm. Cloud cover is approximately 50% throughout the month and does not vary a great deal. The chance of rain falling on any given day is 22%, usually as moderate rain or light drizzle. This is one of the wettest months of the year with average rainfall 21mm over 6 days in the month. As this is not a substantial amount of rain, it is unlikely that rain will ruin your holiday.
Temperatures are gradually falling now, and the average temperature is 20°C, mild compared to other European countries. Daily high and low temperatures range from 22°C at the warmest point of the day to 17°C at night. Sea temperatures are 20°C at this time of year, which is still warm enough for a swim for those keen enough to brave the falling temperatures. Visitors wanting warmer temperatures should plan their visit for earlier in the year, such as September, when air and sea temperatures are higher. The highest recorded temperature at this resort for this month was in 1996 when it got as hot as 29°C. The coldest recorded day at this time of year was in 1958 when the temperature dropped to a cold 9°C. Humidity levels continue to vary from 55%, mildly humid, to 85%, humid, but are kept comfortable by the wind. Wind speeds are lower than in the summer months and are between 1 m/s, light breeze, to 8 m/s, fresh breeze, rarely getting stronger than 12 m/s. The weather forecast is available to check up to date weather conditions.
Where to Stay
When escaping the cold winter weather in December, Mogan is a lovely spot to enjoy a family Christmas, and a holiday home allows the whole family to have a wonderful time. Los Naranjos holiday homes are set in a peaceful area, just 10 minutes drive to the beach and marina, and offers free parking, free Wi-Fi, a garden with sun loungers and a pool. This is a complex of eight houses, all with three bedrooms, a flat-screen TV in the lounge, fully equipped kitchen and dining area. Set close to local shops and services, this is ideal for a relaxing self-catering break in winter.
Keen golfers will love to stay at the luxurious 5* Sheraton Gran Canaria Salobre golf resort in the nearby Salobre, around 8 miles from Mogan. This stunning resort features six outdoor swimming pools, a spa with an indoor heated pool for cooler December days, a Finnish sauna, Hammam, steam baths, sauna and 24-hour gymnasium. The spa also offers massage therapies and a range of spa treatments. This resort is set on the 36-hole Salobre golf course so will suit active visitors who are looking to unwind on their winter holiday. Rooms have a private terrace with mountain or golf course views and plasma TV. A free shuttle bus operates to Maspalomas beach.
Visitors who are looking to travel on a tighter budget should stay at the 2* Apartamentos Lara, close to Puerto Rico beach and conveniently located near restaurants, shops and bars. This self-catering option with one-bedroom apartments would suit a couple looking for a great value Christmas break. The resort features a sun terrace, swimming pool (if the temperatures are warm enough) and an English style bar and restaurant on-site. Apartments have a kitchen with all you need to self-cater, and a lounge-dining area for relaxing in the evening.
Restaurants and Nightlife
Enjoy local cuisine in an authentic atmosphere at the Orillas del Mar restaurant in Mogan. Open for 30 years and run by a local fisherman's son, this restaurant serves fantastic locally caught fresh fish and seafood, including fish not found on many restaurant menus, such as moray, conga, as well as beautiful tuna, red mullet and fish soups. A selection of meats is on offer for those not wanting fish. Enjoy this with a glass of local wine and local singing and folk music in the longest established restaurant in Mogan.
Clipper is an Italian restaurant situated in Puerto de Mogan. A place that is ideal for a special meal, the food is authentic Italian and well prepared and presented. Open for lunch and dinner, dishes include pizza, pasta, gnocchi and desserts served in a friendly atmosphere by attentive staff. Choose to sit inside on colder December days or outside if the sun is shining and make the most of the surroundings while you enjoy your delicious meal.
When staying in Puerto de Mogan, go to Caravaggio restaurant pizza and lounge bar. Enjoy delicious starters, mains and desserts in a warm and ambient setting. The friendly and welcoming staff are knowledgeable and this is a busy yet relaxing venue ideal for lunch or dinner. Visitors can sit at tables outside or stay in the warm inside and soak up the atmosphere of this authentic Italian restaurant. The wine menu is varied and the staff can help you choose which wine suits your choice of dish. Many guests make sure they visit here more than once during their holiday.
Things To Do
The beautiful Salobre golf club is the only course on Gran Canaria with 36 holes and offers and old and a new course. The old course, an 18-hole PAR 71 course, was established in 1999 and the new course, an 18-hole PAR 70, in 2008. There is a performance centre for serious golfers to improve their game, golfing workshops and an extensive practise area. Situated in the lovely Salobre, close to Maspalomas, and with the luxurious Sheraton on-site, this golf course is a must-go for serious golf enthusiasts.
Spoil yourself while on holiday in December and spend the day at the Thalasso spa in Amadores. This hotel spa has an indoor pool, hydro massage station, water jets, a fitness pool and 2 dynamic pools with and aqua gym. Relax with ocean views while you swim in the warm pool or enjoy a sauna to relax those muscles. The spa includes many therapies such as massage, acupuncture and Ayurveda treatments and peels and body wraps help you feel amazing.
