Dordogne Timing Question
 

We plan to return to the Dordogne in summer, 2011, and I would like to know from the experts out there if you have the choice, would you choose the first or last week of June to visit?

Thank you!

Either is fine - no unmanageable crowds the last week and greater chance of better weather too - and longer daylight hours. This year, the weather was crummy (so I'm told) the first half of June & much better the second half.

Stu Dudley

We are also trying to decide when in June to go or if Sept would be better. We are going to track the weather during Sept and see how it looks.

We've had some cold days in June in the past, so I would aim for the end of June.

Winnick - we stayed a week in early September and the weather was warm and wonderful throughout the day and pleasant in the evenings. I would say in high 70s for the most part during the day with somewhat cooler mornings and evenings. I would not have a concern re visiting in September, although I cannot compare it with June weather for the lack of personal experience.

We've been in the Dordogne for 7 weeks during all weeks in Sept & for 3 weeks (2 trips) in late June. Except for our first trip during the last week of June in '97 (where it was overcast & cold for every day & rainy most days) - the weather was wonderful. The big difference is the longer sun hours in June.

Stu Dudley

We are leaning towards June (mainly because of the sun hours, plus a shorter time to wait until seeing France again!)

We are in France now and have been here for a couple of weeks. There have been no crowds anywhere we've been except for the islands around La Rochelle. We've heard from others that only the south of France has been crowded. We've been in Paris, all over Brittany, and south to almost Bordeaux. At present we're in the Loire, near Chinon. Villandry Gardens today were almost empty. Tomorrow we drive to the Dijon area, hopefully the roads will still be low in traffic.

We usually avoid July and August in France, but this year it's not been a problem. We've never had problems traveling at anytime in June in France.

The weather has been glorious!

We were there this year in June. This was a strange weather year as it was cool and rainy in the middle and then very hot at the end of June. I think it is always a gamble, but what a wonderful place to visit! The longer days make June a great time.

Thank you --I was leaning toward the end of June--just wanted to confirm with you all that was a good idea--I know the weather is always unpredictable! I do appreciate the help.