Collioure is an old picturesque town to the South of France, along the Spanish border. The seaside town has a warm Mediterranean climate all year round. Collioure has four distinct seasons, differentiated by mild changes to temperature. Many Fauvist artists have been inspired by Collioureâs pure beauty, ranging from Pablo Picasso, Andr© Derain, Georges Braque, Othon Friesz, Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Tsuguharu Fujita. <?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />
Artist Henri Matisse once said, âIn France there is no sky as blue as the one in Collioure.â Collioure has a strong Catalan, evident in its traditions, such as the Sardane dance. If one is looking for a holiday resort with cheerful warm weather and beautiful sights, Collioure is certainly a place to consider, particularly for followers of art and literature.
Summer
Sunshine and warm temperatures are in evidence more often than not in Collioure with temperatures up to 28°C in the summer months; the period from June to August is the hottest time of the year in Collioure. Collioure celebrates an annual three day festival on 15th August which attracts many visitors. There is often a cool ocean breeze, helping keep visitors comfortable under the warm rays of sunshine.
Autumn
The autumn months are slightly cooler with temperatures possibly dipping to 7°C however Collioure, and its visitors, can still enjoy warm temperatures reaching 24°C. The autumn months in Collioure only have the slightest chance of rainfall and so visitors can expect pleasant weather during their autumn stay. Nevertheless, it is recommended that visitors still check the weather forecast before their arrival, just in case.
Winter
Although Collioure has mild winters, temperatures can still be rather cool (usually ranging from 3°C to 12°C) making winter typically the coolest time of year in Collioure. Rain normally falls upon Collioure in winter more than other seasons, so it is advised that visitors bring rainproof clothing with them as well as a few extra jumpers, just in case. Despite this, visitors can still expect pleasant enough weather to enjoy the townâs historical sites such as its medieval streets and Notre Dame des Anges church, converted from a lighthouse.
Spring
Spring in Collioure is typically warmer than Winter, with temperatures reaching up to 21°C, providing even more ideal weather for fun days out, whether it be exploring the old town or enjoying Collioureâs bay. Temperatures may still be rather cool though, with temperatures possibly dropping to 7°C as the average low in March, the start of spring.
Rain does not fall too often in Collioure with an average of 320 days of sunshine, perfect for enjoying lazy days on the beach. Collioure has an old yet charming castle, ideal for yet another fun day out. As is normal for Mediterranean holidays, visitors are recommended to bring sun cream to protect themselves against the hot rays.