A land of four seasons

We are blessed with a great climate with defined contrast between the seasons.

Spring
Spring time is a personal favourite – crisp mornings, warm afternoons, the countryside awash with colour of wild flowers, oil seed rape, and alive with wildlife. It is a wonderful season for those who like the outdoors – walking, riding, cycling, golf etc are great.

Summer
Summers are hot, and during this period people tend to live outside – covered terraces and pools come into their own. Old stone construction and shutters over windows are of great benefit in keeping indoors cool. It is a lazy season – sunflowers fill the countryside, the grapes are growing on the vines, and the squares are filled with markets and café’s. The young particularly and enjoying the water activities available – swimming, water parks, canoeing etc.

Autumn
The autumn is also a great season, with temperatures ideally suited to outdoor activities, with a lovely array of autumn colours from the numerous species of trees – oak, chestnut, beach, poplar amongst the most plentiful.

Winter
Winters are characterised by cold nights but clear days. Central heating is highly recommended for this period. It is a season for brisk walks, before returning to roaring fires.

The Big Toe Test
People with swimming pools will keep tend to open them in April / May, and close them down in October for the winter – particularly if they benefit from some form if heating. With no form of heating or protection, the season starts in June and will end in September as a general rule.