The Loire Valley's title as “The Garden of France” gives testiment to its beautiful mild climate, perfect for visitors discovering the region; never too hot or cold. There many activites provided in the Loire Valley which are suitable for all seasons.

The popular summer season provides magnificent weather for discovering the Loire by bike, boat or exploring the natural wildlife reserves by foot. However, as this is the peak tourist season, major tourist sites can become quite busy. Spring and autumn offer days which are still bright and warm and there are fewer visitors to contend with. During winter it is rare for temperatures to fall below freezing due to Atlantic influences, making it quite pleasant for visitors.

The average monthly temperatures are as follows:

SPRING
March, the end of winter and the beginning of spring, marks the reopening of many chateaux and the beginning of the busy tourist season. Visitors can appreciate the natural beauty of the flower meadows, the flowing waters of the Loire, and the migrations of birds.

SUMMER
Summer, the peek season in the Loire Valley, can get quite hot; however influences from the Atlantic moderate the temperature making it rather pleasant, often accompanied by pleasant breezes. The busy season creates crowded tourist sites, however during this time the Loire Valley is the perfect holiday destination to warm you up without boiling you. Towards the end of June, most of the famous chateaux ‘sound and lighting' (son et lumiére) performances begin, and during July and August many of the small towns and villages hold local fetes.

AUTUMN
Perhaps autumn is the most pleasant season to visit the Loire Valley, as the forests beam red and gold in the mild sunshine. This is the golden season of the grape harvest, and the events and celebrations associated with it. During this time there are less crowds to contend with when visiting the magnificent chateaux.

WINTER
Winter is a quiet season in the Loire Valley, when many of the chateaux and other tourist sites are closed. Visitors can experience a film festival and the festive beauty of Christmas markets This is also the timee of the sales, always very appreciated in the main cities such as Tours.