There’s no denying it has been hot hot hot in Europe (and the rest of the northern hemisphere) so far this Summer. While the temperatures have risen, dealing with scorchers isn’t exactly a new phenomenon to the Italians. There are usual methods of drinking lots of water, and staying out of the sun, and wearing light fabric clothing; and then there is the supplementary Italian way to beat the heat.

Beat the heat at the seaside…

How to Beat the Heat

There’s never a better time to embrace the tradition of a siesta, especially if you’re making the most of the cooler temperatures in the early hours of the morning. With iconic green shutters closed, slink into the quiet out of the sun and catch up on forty winks or so. As long as you keep it to about 10 to 20 minutes, you also get the added benefit of stress reduction, mental focus – what better excuse to be horizontal?! There is certainly time during your stay at The Watermill to do as the Italians do and snooze in the heat of the midday sun – enjoying the cool of our solar-powered air-conditioning should you need it.

…or up a mountain…Other methods to beat the heat include:

• Seeking refuge in stone structures such as churches and cathedrals (just be mindful to keep your shoulders covered out of respect for the religious institution) – and there are plenty of these locally
• Refilling water in public drinking fountains dotted around cities and towns. Safe for consumption or just pouring over your head for a quick refreshment
• Eating gelato or granita – the perfect excuse to try every flavour during the course of your stay here, but we won’t tell!
• Escaping to nature: whether it be il mare (the sea) or le montagne (the mountains). The lower temperatures are worth the schlep. Luckily, where we are in Northern Tuscany, we are equidistant from both.

…or with an ice cream treat!

We hope you’re able to stay cool and safe this Summer! Want to stay up to date with what weather to expect? Prepare to beat the heat by following the forecasts.