As summer fades and a crisp breeze fills the air, there’s no reason to feel melancholy. Autumn is a dazzling season, a final celebration before winter’s cold embrace.
Explore these stunning locations worldwide to marvel at the splendid fall foliage.
1. The Golden Red Swash of Nara, Japan
In Japan, autumn is just as beautiful as the cherry blossom season in spring, and leaves are already streaked in yellows. Kouyou (autumn leaves) spanning from the northern Hokkaidō to as far south as you can quickly look without zipping to December, vibrant, autumn foliage is seen throughout the country. One of the best places close to Kyoto is the historic city of Nara. The large park in which the castle is located displays a stunning array of red, gold and yellow colors including particularly nice views of the castle and lake below from the paths traversing the northeastern corner of the park en route to the Tamukeyama shrine.
This scenic modification is a treat to the viewers as the leaves modify their shades in a magnificent approach. Nara is filled with natural beauty as well as a rich cultural history, all of which is enhanced in the fall and visiting during this season creates a memory like no other. This is especially true as you make your way through the sea of autumn foliage up to Tamukeyama Shrine. This is one of the great things that can only be seen at Japan’s most charming spots.
2. The Forest of Dean, England
This historic forest in Gloucestershire, once a royal hunting ground, played a crucial role in the construction of Tudor warships. Today, it’s an idyllic destination for those who enjoy the simple pleasure of leaf peeping. The diverse mix of oak, beech, and sweet chestnut trees creates a stunning display of yellow and gold hues. The Forest of Dean is accessible on foot or by bicycle, offering an excellent opportunity for exploration. Keep an eye out for the wild boar that have inhabited the area since 2006.
3. Brilliant Red Maple of White Mountains, New Hampshire, USA
New England is synonymous with fall, and selecting a single must-see spot is a challenge. However, New Hampshire’s White Mountains stand out as one of the top places to experience the vibrant colors of autumn, not only in New England but globally. Hike through the hills in early October and witness the stunning red maple leaves, or take a drive to Silver Cascade Falls in Carroll County to see the trees illuminated beside the 250-foot waterfall.
4. Feel the Burnt Orange of Autumn in the Loire Valley, France
With the leaves on the vines turning and the summer crowds heading home, fall is the perfect time to visit France’s Loire Valley. The rolling vineyards transform beautifully as they exchange the greens of warmer months for the yellows, browns, and burnt oranges of autumn. It’s also harvest time, providing an opportunity to watch the grape-picking process in the fields before finding a cozy spot to enjoy the view with a glass of the local wine.
5. The Golden Leaves of Bishop Creek Canyon, California
Just because the Northeast USA boasts spectacular fall colors doesn’t mean you should overlook the West Coast. California’s inland forests offer a fantastic alternative, with the reds and yellows of fall lingering longer in the Golden State due to its diverse elevation. Bishop Creek Canyon is one of many excellent viewing points. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the golden leaves here create a stunning contrast with the rocky hills in the background.
6. The Enchanted Forest at Pitlochry, Scotland
Scotland’s pine forests remain evergreen, but its deciduous trees display some of the most breathtaking fall colors in Europe. Venture out of town to the dam and fish ladder, which divides the Tummel River and Loch Faskally, for a stunning view of waterside trees shedding their leaves. Each October, Pitlochry hosts the Enchanted Forest, a nightly event where the trees are illuminated to the sounds of soaring music in the nearby woods.
7. Take in the Bright Yellow of Fall in Lombardy, Italy
Even as the leaves begin to fall, Lombardy in northern Italy remains a perfect destination to witness the vibrant transformation of mainland Europe. The native Lombardy poplars, which dot the landscape, turn a brilliant yellow before their leaves gently descend. If a countryside visit isn’t feasible, Milan’s public gardens provide a splendid urban perspective of the autumn scenery.
8. The Wash of Glorious Fall Shades in Dandenong Ranges, Australia
Australia’s autumn season truly begins in March. While Australia is often synonymous with beaches, surfing, and summer heat, the Dandenong Ranges near Melbourne offer a stunning display of fall colors. This national park, known for its remarkable beauty, is also home to meticulously maintained gardens. A visit to the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens is highly recommended when the lawns are blanketed with fallen leaves and the trees are radiant.
9. Experience Fall in Agawa Canyon, Canada
Ride the Agawa Canyon Tour Train this fall to view some of the best fall colors you can see anywhere in the world. The journey stretches for 114 miles through the clearest wilderness as the days get shorter on the way from Sault Ste. Marie. These inspirational landscapes beguiled the great 20th-century landscape artists of Canada – Tom Thomson and the Group of Seven. Come soon – the leaves reach their peak in the last week of September or first week in October.
