A Blustery Wind in Provence Le Mistral

Living in the south of France is a beautiful thing. Except for the wind. It is so prevalent and so powerful that it has a name: “Le Mistral”

Residents of Uzes have a saying about Le Mistral:

“It sometimes lasts only one or two days, frequently lasts several days, and sometimes lasts more than a week.”

Let me know if you can figure out that prediction. From my brief experience in this part of France where Le Mistral is prevalent, I’ve known it to last more than a week. Having lived next to the Atlantic Ocean, I would describe it as a strong ocean breeze during hurricane season. In France, the wind can be dry or wet, warm or cold, There are times when Le Mistral is so strong, you feel it will knock you off your feet, literally.

…Continue reading here for Deborah’s detailed post on this wind. In the summer months, a mistral is welcome as it usually brings a drop in temperature. After a late summer rain, the winemakers love the mistral as it dries off the grapes and prevents rot. However, in November or winter months the mistral can be fierce bringing with it frigid temperatures.

There are two French expressions when it comes to the mistral “le vent qui rend fou” (the wind which makes you crazy) and “le vent des voleurs” (the wind of robbers).

The Mistral Wind of Provence by Margo Lestz

Read about the architecture in Provence built with the mistral in mind.