Provence lights up with colours and scents with the arrival of spring and until late autumn retains a charm that is unique in Europe. Each month has its own colours and secrets to discover, from autumn walks among blueberries and raspberries, purple gentians and red leaves, to the mimosas in bloom in February.
Late spring and summer are certainly the best times to visit Provence and admire it in all its splendour.
In particular, May and June, swept by winds that leave a clear, bright sky, are rich in wildflowers and see a smaller concentration of tourists flocking to the villages, while July is the jubilation of the lavender bloom. An incredible spectacle, a palette of all variations of purple and lilac that is accompanied by a succession of local festivals and village fairs.
August, on the other hand, is dedicated to lovers of the sea and the liveliness of the coastal areas, thanks to the warm, crystal-clear waters, the possibility of doing outdoor activities and enjoying the many cultural and folkloric initiatives.
Below are the weather forecasts for the next days for the main tourist destinations.
Provence enjoys a wonderful Mediterranean climate, temperate and mild: it is no coincidence that it is home to olive trees and lavender.
Because of the mountains immediately behind the coast, the climate, especially in summer, varies greatly from area to area. On the coast in the summer season the climate is generally hot and in some areas even sultry, such as the Camargue, while others such as the Valensole plateaus see temperatures cool down in the evenings.
In general, however, the climate in Provence is ideal for those wishing to explore these lands rich in flavours, colours and scents.
The mid-seasons in Provence see an alternation of dry months and copious rainfall, although fine days are frequent thanks to the proximity of the sea, especially in May and early autumn.
Both the Provençal countryside and the sunny coasts provide travellers with a scorching sun that makes them appreciate the shade of the pine forests and the beaches so famous for their beauty. Temperatures very often exceed 30° at the peak of the day and the nights are pleasant, with temperatures around 20°.
In the Southern Alps, on the other hand, although it is warm during the day, the air becomes cooler as you move deeper into the mountains.
In any case, you will be fascinated and amazed by the gold and blue of the sun and sea, unmistakable features of this region.
Beware, however, of the sudden summer thunderstorms that often hit the more inland regions: hot, sunny summer days see unexpected and often violent downpours.
If you are planning a hike along the many paths that Provence offers, be prepared for a possible change in the weather forecast.
Despite the cold season, Provence is normally very sunny and on the coasts temperatures often reach 20° on sunny days without wind.
However, the mistral, the cold wind that comes from the north and makes the sky so clear and blue, causes temperatures to drop suddenly. It should be remembered that mountain areas experience heavy snowfall and sub-zero temperatures.