Climate in Menton

The peculiarity of Menton’s Mediterranean climate is that, unlike other resorts on the French Riviera, it is subtropical rather than typically Mediterranean. This is due to the fact that Menton is completely sheltered from cold northern winds by the Maritime Alps. According to statistics, the sun shines here 316 days a year. Winters in Menton are very mild and humid, while summers are hot and dry.

The highest air temperatures in Menton occur in August, when the thermometer often rises to +35°C. The coldest month is considered to be January, with an average temperature of +10°C. Snowfall in winter is extremely rare (once every few years) and melts within minutes, so you definitely won’t be able to play snowball fights here.

Menton’s climate is regarded as one of the healthiest in France. Many years ago, the resort was recognized as the most favorable place for treating tuberculosis patients. The town is famous for its long-livers, which is why many French retirees move here to spend their peaceful old age in a “paradise garden” by the sea and mountains.

Flora and fauna of Menton

The resort is rightfully called the “garden city.” There are countless parks with lush greenery. Menton is especially famous for its lemon groves. Thanks to its subtropical Mediterranean climate, these citrus fruits are considered the tastiest, juiciest, and most fragrant on the continent. In ordinary city gardens you can find a wide variety of tropical plants. The Carnolès Palace hosts the largest collection of citrus trees in Europe.

On the city streets you will come across dogs and cats. But in Menton’s national reserves, the wildlife is much richer. The mountain areas are home to deer, chamois, and mouflons, while wolves are often spotted in the forests. The kings of the avian world here are the capercaillie, the rock ptarmigan, the golden eagle, and the buzzard.