What's the Weather like in Elounda in January
Temperature
January is the coldest and the wettest month of the year in Elounda, Crete, with the average temperature at this time of the year only 110C. Temperatures can range from a day time high of 140C to a chilly overnight low of 80C. When planning a visit in this month, make sure to pack plenty of warm clothing and plan for indoor activities as this is not the best time of year to visit the beach. In the past, temperatures in this month have reached a high of 230C, but have dropped down to as low as 30C. Temperatures are fairly stable during this month and are similar to those seen in Lisbon, Portugal.
Average Sea Temperature
This is not a great month for those who are planning to get involved in water activities, as the sea temperatures only reach a cold 170C, but still warmer than sea temperatures seen in February.
Humidity
The humidity levels are not too high at this time of year, ranging from between 50%, which is mildly humid, to 85% and it becomes drier as the month progresses. Wind speeds are normally fairly light and range from 0 m/s to 9 m/s, a fresh breeze. Winds rarely exceed 15 m/s during this month, which is a strong breeze. There is hardly any chance of snow in winter in this resort as it does not get cold enough.
Rainfall
This is the wettest month of the year, with the amount of rainfall at around 137mm that falls over 14 days of the month. There is approximately a 50% chance of rain on any given day in January, and this can come in the form of light or moderate rain, so don't forget to pack an umbrella if visiting in this month. The wettest January recorded saw 144mm of rain fall during the month. All that rain means cloud cover is fairly constant and thick at around 73% on an average day.
Average Sunshine Hours
The sun shines for only around 7 hours per day, and the length of each day is gradually increasing. For less chance of rain and longer, sunnier days, plan to visit later in the year in the spring months in autumn. Look at the forecast for the resort before travelling to make the most of your visit.
Elounda Hotels in January
Elounda Vista Villas
During the cooler January month, stay at the well-appointed Elounda Vista Villas, located on different levels on the hillside, 5km outside Elounda and overlooking the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. Enjoy the landscaped gardens and swimming pool, while staying in comfortable villas with internet, TV, and a full kitchen with dishwasher. The hotel provides babysitting service, supermarket delivery service and a welcome basket is provided to all guests.
Elounda Garden Suites
Located close to the town centre, the Elounda Garden Suites are ideal for visitors hoping to explore the town and surrounding area. The tastefully decorated apartments offer furnished balconies with mountain views set amongst lush gardens, with kitchenette, on-site restaurant and bar and free Wifi throughout. Only 100 metres to the town with many dining options, there is also a mini-market nearby for guests who prefer self-catering.
Stella Mare
The Stella Mare resort is located in the fishing village of Plaka, 5km from Elounda and 300m to the beach. This is a good choice for a quiet and relaxing break during winter. The apartments have a kitchenette, fridge, veranda with garden views and flat screen TV. The resort is situated 50m from restaurants and bars in the village, and 100m from the harbour where boats regularly depart for Spinalonga Island. There is free parking and pets are welcome at this resort.
Bars and Restaurants
The Hope
The Hope is a great tavern up the hill at Elounda town with spectacular views over the bay. This small but friendly establishment has a great atmosphere and serves mezzes rather than larger main meals, so enjoy a selection of dishes to share with friends. There is a good selection of beers and local wines, the food is delicious, and the staff are friendly and helpful when deciding what to order. Well worth the walk up the hill for the great food and views at this taverna.
Porto Rino
The food at Porto Rino, situated at the harbour in Elounda, is delicious, with a great selection of meat, fish and vegetarian dishes to suit all. This is a friendly, clean, family-run Italian restaurant that is a good place to take the whole family. Serving pizza and pasta, as well as steaks and other traditional Italian dishes, there is plenty of choice for the kids as well as the adults. There is also a good wine and beer selection available and it is in a great location at the port.
Babel Bar
A great place for a night out with friends is the Babel bar in Elounda. This is a British pub that shows all the matches from home as well as serving English breakfasts and meals when feeling like some home comforts. It is also a great spot for a relaxing sunset cocktail overlooking the harbour, and is the perfect place to go with friends and family or meet new friends while enjoying a relaxing drink or two.
Things to do in Elounda in January
The Festival of Epiphany
Although it is still cold and wet in January in Elounda there are still plenty of activities to keep visitors busy. The festival of Epiphany is celebrated on 6th January every year, held throughout all of Greece and is the blessing of the water. On this day, the sea water and small boats are blessed by a priest. A cross is thrown into the sea and local men dive into the cold water to retrieve it. Whoever manages to get the cross is said to have good luck in the coming year. Music, dancing and celebrations continue all through the day and night.
Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos
On cold wintery days in January, go to the Archaeological museum of Agios Nikolaos. Located in nearby Agios Nikolaos town, this is a fascinating insight into Cretan history, from the Neolithic period, to Classical and Roman times. Situated at the hilltop of the town, this museum is set in beautiful surroundings and gardens. The exhibits are displayed chronologically and have many interesting archaeological finds, such as an Athlete's skull found in a Roman first century tomb, and pieces of art dating back to 2500BC.
