Snow lies thick on Sierra Nevada, occasional rains bring rich odours from the earth, cloud 'dragons' swirl up the valleys and the sunsets are a joy. A roaring log fire at night is a must. The sun warms a green countryside and there is a fresh liveliness in the pure mountain air. Each little village celebrates its own festival and for some this marks out an itinerary in itself of dance and fireworks, saints and wine. For others, the high mountain villages are a haven away from the coastal heat.
Grapes are ripe on the vine, walnuts, chestnuts and mushrooms can be picked by all.
Higher up in the hills, the nights begin to cool, while below in the valleys, where the microclimate is semi-tropical, swimming pools are still in use throughout October and even into November.