Apt, in the region of Vaucluse in southeast France, sits just within the area of France that receives a Mediterranean climate, entailing long, hot summers and mild, rainy winters. However, sitting inland at the foot of the Luberon Mountains, it sees slightly hotter summers and cooler winters than are to be found on the coast. Its climate and hilly terrain create the perfect conditions for wine production and the cultivation of truffles.
Summer, from June till September, is hot and dry with a great deal of sunshine. The average high temperature works from the mid 20s to a peak of 30°C in July and August. This means it can actually get into the mid 30s which many would find uncomfortable. Night time temperatures are considerably cooler, dropping just below 20°C in the peak months and getting down to the mid teens in June and September. This large drop in temperature at night is due to very low level of humidity which in turn is owed to the aridity of the season.
Rainfall levels are very low with a few very brief showers falling on under ten days each month. That is until September when rainfall suddenly spikes to its highest point of the year. This should not rule September out as rainfall is usually restricted to a few heavy thunderstorms that clear up quickly. Sunshine levels peak in July at ten hours per day and get down to eight hours per day in September.
The northwest mistral wind provides some refreshment. The mountains that rise behind Apt stop this wind from travelling further south. Low humidity also encourages a cooler perceived temperature but conditions are generally good and most will relish the long days of high heat and absent rain.
Autumn, in October and November, is very mild. The average high temperature drops to 21°C in October and 15°C in November, so the early weeks of October can be a fantastic time to visit. Night time temperatures are quite cool in October at 13°C and positively chilly in November at 7°C. Rainfall levels reduce but to the effect of lighter rain falling more frequently. October still sees seven hours of sunshine per day but November is often overcast and sees five. November days are still pleasant for walking holidays as long as you come prepared for the cold nights.
Winter, from December till February, is cool at around 12°C in the day and 4°C at night with a slight dip in January. It can get down to freezing and frost can develop, especially higher up. On the mountains behind Apt, snow settles. It does not tend to get bitterly cold so if you wrap-up sufficiently there is no reason why you canât enjoy exploring Apt in the winter. Sunshine levels get down to four hours per day for much of the season but this is good in comparison to the UK which only sees one hour per day in many areas. It can drizzle quite often but it is generally drier than in autumn.
Spring, between March and May, quickly improves. The average high temperature climbs to 16°C in March, 18°C in April and 23°C in May. From early March sunny days can see temperatures in the low 20s. However, night times remain cool and a chilly wind can give a bite even to warm days. Rainfall stays low in March and May but April showers come into effect. If you intend to climb on the hills and cliffs around Apt then early and late Spring are the best times to visit due to the low rainfall combined with pleasant, not too hot, temperatures. Sunshine levels increase throughout the season.