Travel Essentials: France

France enjoys a temperate, rather pleasant climate which is divided into four climatic zones.

Firstly an oceanic and humid climate with cooler summers to the west. Here the Atlantic is a big influencer on the climate with areas such as Biarritz enjoying mild and temperate weather all through the year. Summer temperatures reach 25°C with winters dropping to a high of 12°C and a low of 5°C. Rain usually occurs in short but sharp showers right through the year.

A semi-continental climate dominates the east with harsh winters and hot summers in regions such as Alsace, Lorraine, along the Rhone corridor, and in the mountainous massifs (Alps, Pyrenees and Massif Central). Here summer temperatures can be in the high 20’s or low thirties whilst in the winter months it gets very cold and can be rainy; this falls as snow in the mountains.

Thirdly there is an intermediate climate with cold winters and warm summers in the north, in Paris and in central regions. Paris lies in the midst of the region which has France's lowest rainfall, however as in the UK rain can fall at any time, often unexpectedly. Summer temperatures are warm - 25°C, while winters are very chilly with temperatures hovering around freezing point.

Lastly is the typically Mediterranean climate of the south with mild winters and very hot summers. Nice on the Mediterranean coast has hot summers with temperatures reaching 30°C and more, whilst winter temperatures are usually 10-15°C.

France is best visited during spring (flowers aplenty in the countryside), May and June, or the beginning of autumn - September and October (milder temperatures yet with the remnants of summer sun).

Summer holidays during July and August, are often the only choice for families, but this is the busiest time, often with overcrowding and hot temperatures – head to the seaside or for a river-based holidays along one of the famous waterways of France such as the Dordogne. Summer too is however perfect for those seeking mountain-based holidays as the hills are open for rafting, walking and biking - it’s a great time to get out and about.

Winter is all about the mountains too – skiing doesn’t need a mention but there are other snow-based sports, such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Head to the Pyrenees and Alps in winter.