January is considered to be directly in the middle of winter for those visiting Lagos. But the weather is still undeniably good on the whole.
With average high temperatures of 15°C at this time of the year, it is amazing to think this is actually the coldest month of the year for this part of Portugal. But then, the whole region is known for providing an outstanding climate all year round.
Average lows in Lagos can fall down to 6°C at this time of the year, which is especially possible at night. But with the average temperature of the entire month remaining at a very attractive 11°C, there is plenty of good weather to be had.
The highest temperature ever recorded in January was an incredible 21°C. But with the lowest temperature ever experienced in recent history only -2°C, the chances of very cold weather in Lagos are minimal.
After the heaviest rainfall of the year experienced in December, January can still experience a fair bit of rain in Lagos. But even when there is a downpour, it never lasts very long. There is usually some rainfall during the month on 14 of the 30 days. And with 100mm of rain expected to fall during January, this is the second wettest month of the year. But when compared with neighbouring areas such as Gibraltar to the west and Porto in the North, Lagos is still considerably drier.
The cold weather does have a considerable impact on the sea temperatures at this time of the year. Though the 17°C experienced in January is positively bath-like for many visitors it is not until May that the temperature of the sea will experience any real improvement.
But with 6 hours of daily sunshine in January and humidity levels of only 77%, the climate in Lagos still brings very welcome relief from the cold winter weather experienced in other parts of the world.
For the ideal site to enjoy some winter sun, stay at Tivoli Lagos Hotel. As part of the chain of Tivoli hotels and restaurants, this is the place to stay for some refined luxury. Located directly in the centre of Lagos, the Tivoli Lagos Hotel offers spa and golf facilities for all its guests. And when the weather improves, free shuttle buses will take you to the number of beaches nearby. Enjoy the short walk to the large variety of local restaurants and amenities, or relax within the accommodation itself. There is something for everyone, whatever time of year it is.
The Sollagos Apartamentos Turisticos is the ideal place to stay in Lagos for families in January. With superior rooms accommodating up to four people, this very competitively priced accommodation provides the ideal get away. Fully equipped kitchen facilities and lots of amenities close by ensure you have everything you need to hand. And though the pool is not heated in the winter months, there is still plenty of access to hikes and walks to the beach to keep you entertained. With spacious, comfortable rooms and welcoming staff, Sollagos is always a great place to stay.
Though it can be a little hard to find Casa Arte in the hills above Lagos, when you do discover it, the rewards are bountiful. Beautiful architecture, a truly welcoming atmosphere and elegant style makes this boutique hotel a place to treasure. There is instant access to a range of hillside walks to take in some of the most breath-taking views of the Algarve. Or you can sit and relax in the tranquillity of the poolside tables. Thought Casa Arte is well away from the busy main town, it is still only a 10 minute drive to access all the local amenities. It is the perfect location for anyone that wants to get away from it all.
Whether you want to enjoy a warm cup of chocolate or experience some truly authentic local hospitality, Dona Ginja is a tavern with it all going on. The cosy atmosphere is very welcoming, especially in the winter months. And the combination of regular live music and a very personable team of waiting staff are ready to welcome you. For a traditional flavour of Lagos try the local Ginja. And once you get a taste for it, you can take a bottle home with you. But one thing is for sure, one visit to Dona Ginja never seems to be enough.
Delicious fresh fish and flavoursome meat dishes ensure everyone should take a trip to Chico Ze. For an economical lunch or a full blown meal, choose your meat or fish at the counter and then take a seat while the food hits the grill. Delicious side dishes make the meal even more irresistible, especially when the boiled potatoes and garlic are being served. A well flavoured local wine is also on offer, to provide the perfect way to wash it all down. Just make sure you call ahead to book a table, even in January Chico Ze is always popular.
Though Adega Tipica A Forja is not one of the larger restaurants in Lagos, it certainly makes a big impact. The freshly cooked prawns and sea bass are always very popular, while the carafes of local wine would be cheap at double the price. But for a true flavour of what Adega Tipica A Forja is about, choose from one of the two daily specials, and experience fresh food at its best. The service is friendly, but still exceptionally quick, ensuring Adega Tipica A Forja is a great place for a lunch on the run or a relaxing meal. And it all comes with a price tag that is sure to please.
While January may not offer the best time to sit on the beach, it is certainly a great time to go off and enjoy some Big Game Fishing with Blue Shark. Your team of expert fisherman will take you to areas where you have a chance of catching anything from red snappers and black sea bream to white marlin and hammer head sharks. Choose the length of excursion and the type of fish you want to catch. There will then be a trip tailored to meet your needs and ensure you have a truly memorable day out.
When visiting Lagos in January a trip to Sagres is a must. Its cliff top location and historical significance offers a truly wonderful place to visit. Watch the see bash into the cliffs walls to experience the sheer force of nature first hand. And then walk into one of the purpose built eco chambers to hear the sound of the wild sea amplified throughout the space. Explore the lighthouse or watch the incredible sunsets. On a clear day, it is said that you can see all the way to Morocco from Sagres.
