When to walk

Walking in France: Château d'Amboise in the early morning
Château d’Amboise in the early morning
Walking in France: An early start in Martel
An early start in Martel

As campers, we prefer June and July, because at that time of the year we get the maximum amount of daylight. The sun rises at about 6 am and sets about 10 pm. However at that time of year it can get very hot, with many days over 35ºC.

Our solution to that problem is to get up with the sun, have a quick bite to eat, pack up and be on our way before 7 am. By the time the day heats up, we are approaching our destination, even after stopping for a second breakfast along the way. An early start also means the opportunity for photography in a beautiful even light.

Walking in France: Château of Montsoreau at dusk
Château of Montsoreau at dusk

We usually come back from dining in the local restaurant as the light is just beginning to fade, so we never have to grovel about in the dark with a torch, getting ready for bed.

For non-campers with the benefit of electric light, there is a wider choice of suitable months, say from April to October. Outside of these times, a lot of amenities could be closed. The French themselves traditionally take their holidays in August.

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