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As the heat of the summer begins to fade and crisp mornings arrive, the warm tones of nature show us that Fall is here. The changing of the leaves is one of nature’s most remarkable phenomena, enchanting us all for a brief golden moment. Say hello to the vivid oranges, reds, and yellows to welcome a new season. If this is your favorite time of year and you’re yearning for the best destination to enjoy the fall foliage, we have a treat for you. Here are the best spots to head on your next autumnal getaway.
Kyoto – Japan
Hidden in a trove of serene gardens and ancient temples, Kyoto is a city known as one of the best foliage spots to visit worldwide. No other place embraces the changing seasons with so much grace and elegance. Autumn transforms this historic Japanese city into a palette of vibrant colors enjoyed by travelers from all corners of the world.
The Arashiyama bamboo grove towers over the city all year but takes on an entirely new charm through autumn as sunlight filters through golden leaves, casting a warm glow onto the paths underneath. Japanese maple leaves create an abundance of gold and crimson hues, almost instantly transforming traditional gardens such as Tofuku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera into a heavenly paradise. Sip matcha while gazing at the picturesque gardens decorated with colorful leaves while admiring the fall foliage from a traditional tea house.
Lake District – England
England has always been known for its historic landmarks and countryside, with the most outstanding example of this being the Lake District, home to a poetic landscape of rolling hills, mountain ranges, and, of course, lakes. Autumn is an extraordinary time in this part of the world where the quiet beauty of the changing fall foliage highlights the tranquil surroundings.
Hiking is the aim of the game when it comes to any trip to the Lake District, so trails like Catbells and Helvellyn are some of the most significant witnesses to autumnal transformation, with the area cascading in a palette of warm colors. The lakes reflect the warm tones of the vibrant trees around the area, creating a stunning mirror effect that amplifies the visual splendor tenfold. Fall foliage and crackling fires are the perfect contrasts at charming country inns, providing an ideal balance of nature and comfort.
New England – USA
With its quaint little towns and beautiful countryside, New England is synonymous with picturesque displays during fall. This area of the world truly comes alive this time of year, painting the landscape in a vast array of reds, oranges, and yellows cascading.
For the perfect drive, take a scenic road trip along Vermont’s Green Mountain Byway or the Kancamagus Highway, where you will greeted with panoramic views of the blazing colored forests. Visit apple orchards set against rolling hills adorned with vibrant foliage as you participate in the quintessential fall activity of apple picking. In addition to tasty food, live music, and traditional crafts, fall festivals offer local events and fairs to celebrate the harvest season.
Bavaria – Germany
The enchanting landscapes of autumnal Bavaria are always accented at this time, becoming the even more perfect home for charming villages, medieval castles, and rolling hills.
A stunning backdrop of bright foliage makes the iconic fairytale castle even more impressive.
The contrast between the snow-capped peaks and the vibrant colors of autumn in the valleys of the Bavarian Alps can be seen as you hike through the mountains of the Bavarian Alps. With traditional beer, music, and festivities, Oktoberfest is the perfect combination for those who enjoy fall foliage.
Tuscany – Italy
Known for its vineyards, rolling hills, and charming villages, Tuscany is simply charming. The warm hues of the regional landscape create the perfect romantic destination for any couple looking to travel.
Autumn colors surround rows of grapevines in the vineyards of Chianti during harvest season. Stroll through the towns of Montepulciano and San Gimignano, medieval towns that are enhanced with wonder by the fall foliage for an extra autumnal layer. Savour Tuscany’s fall landscapes, local food, and the tranquillity of agriturismo (farm stays) and country estates.
Explore the Changing Season
The changing of the fall season brings an entirely new atmosphere — a time for layers, coffee, and warming tonal pallets that create a defining moment towards the end of summer. All the places we have spoken about add their flavor to what fall is all about.
Still, all have the falling foliage in common that transforms already beautiful places into even more picturesque wonderlands. There are many more places to discover that we simply couldn’t feature in our list, but this is the perfect start for anyone yearning for an autumnal getaway like no other.
