Chatel in January

Outside the best window (check). Across France: Cold and grey north of Lyon; the winter sales (soldes) start in January; ski resorts busy at weekends.

January is rated mixed. These months rate higher:

• AprilGoodOutside the best window (check). Across France: Spring in Paris and the Loire; Easter school holidays add crowds for two weeks.
• MayGoodOutside the best window (check). Across France: Long weekends (1 May, 8 May, Ascension) fill trains; otherwise mild and green. Cannes festival lifts Riviera prices mid-month.
• JuneGoodOutside the best window (check). Across France: Long days and warm evenings everywhere; Fête de la Musique on 21 June; lavender starts late in the month.
• SeptemberGoodOutside the best window (check). Across France: Warm sea in the south, grape harvest in the vineyards, quieter roads. The best all-round month.

• ChatelHighs around 2 °C (36 °F), lows around -6 °C (21 °F), rain on about 10 daysHighs around 36 °F (2 °C), lows around 21 °F (-6 °C), rain on about 10 days

Crowds · France overall

Low

Prices · France overall

Low

France overall: Cold and grey north of Lyon; the winter sales (soldes) start in January; ski resorts busy at weekends.

Weather, crowds and prices for any two months in Chatel, side by side.

• A warm coat, hat and gloves for mornings and evenings
• A rain jacket or umbrella and shoes that dry fast

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