 |
 9th February 2010
|
The Infamous Mistral Wind in ProvenceThat fierce, cold windProvence is well known for its fierce and cold wind known locally as Le Mistral. This wind is the result of an atmospheric phenomenon that occurs mainly in the winter and spring in the gulf of the Mediterranean Sea. The Mistral usually develops as a cold front moving down across France. The air piles up in the Alps before spilling over the mountain's top and rushing down into the Rhône valley between the Alps and Cevenes. The Mistral may blow continuously for several days at a time, attain velocities of about 100 km (62 miles) and reach a height of 2 to 3 km (1 to 4m) towards the French Riviera and the Gulfe de Lion. Marseilles and St.Tropez often take the full brunt of this cold, strong wind as it finally reaches the sea. These winds can affect weather in North Africa, Sicily and throughout the Mediterranean. It is strongest and most frequent in winter, and sometimes causes considerable damage to crops. Trees in Provence are forever bent in the direction of this fierce wind. Le Mistral can cause tiresome headaches. Many a mother will claim this wind incites a general restlessness in children - even pets are said to be affected! But as inhospitable an element as it may be, this beneficial wind does clear and dry the atmosphere in the region, leaving the sun to shine some 2800 hours per year! “Behind the Mistral is the beauty of Provence. Its fierceness blows away clouds and grime and doubt, leaving colors the depth of dreams and a freshness that can come only after the Mistral's scouring. Provence needs the Mistral or it ceases to be the Provence of my dreams. I need the Mistral to cut through those dreams to truth - beauty comes after the wind.” Kamiah A. Walker Life in Provence Home Page Looking for a property in France? Use FrenchEntrée's Property Finders to help you find your property and to help you through the buying process 
|
Learn French on holiday in Provence
 Relaxed, conversational French classes 3 hours each day - then spend the rest of your holiday as you choose. Find out more.Professional independent financial advice
 Services at Spectrum IFA include insurance, mortgages, investments and savings advice. Plus, on-going support from your local adviser Victoria Lewis. A free financial health check is available. More info.
English speaking architects in Provence
 Renovation and new constructions. Design and Project management, coordination and administrative matters. We work throughout Provence.. More info Uccimac - Business Opportunities
 A one-stop entry point for buying a business in the Massif Central region of France.
Provence Newsletter |
Search FrenchEntréeFrench Property Database Search
Over 12,000 properties for sale throughout France..... More search options Use a property finder Wines of Provence To find a fine wine to accompany these specialites, visit our Wine Section! Where you'll learn about: An Intro to Wine Evaluating Color The Aromas in Wine Describing the Taste Matching Food & Wine FrenchEntrée Provence ContributionsHave a story you'd like to share? Swimming pool regulations updateThere are four choices for pool security.jpg) All existent domestic, campsite and hotel pools must have infant security protection in place by no later than January 1, 2006 ... more...
French Public Holidays |