Striking for this area are the hedges around the orchards. Often made by knotted poplars . Nice straight lines . They`re planted to protect the (most pears) trees against wind and cold. When it`s frozen in spring they spray the blossoms with water and the ice it becomes protect those for more freezing damage .
Sounds strange but it helps .
Such open and flat land and such beautifully manicures straight hedge - as you said a protection for the fruit trees from frost - but also creating a habitat for the birds and wildlife !
Just found your message and in case you didn't see my response, I am putting it here: "Thank you so much, Ferry and Ina. Your kind thoughts are very much appreciated by us both. Noel was very special to us. Best wishes, Ivan & Tina"
Katharine