Surrounded on three sides by the gulf stream, frost is virtually unknown. The temperature is usually around 12°C and it rarely drops below 6°C. Of course it rains sometimes and the wind is famously strong hence the postcards showing Audierne lighthouse engulfed by huge waves. But getting up close to nature and walking the coastal paths is a must in winter. So much drama, such beautiful vistas. The prevailing south west wind is incredibly pure, no pollution, just sea air. And the creatures don’t need to hibernate. When the clouds part, lizards nip out to hang in the pools of winter sun on the walls.