The Colors of Fall Around the World

Fall is definitely in the air. The crisp breeze, the scent of fresh apple cider, and of course the brilliant reds, yellows golds and browns that remind us of days gone by. Normally we associate the changing colors of fall with New England, but there are many other places around the world where you can experience the colors of the season.

Edinburgh, Scotland. If ever there’s a place that could give New England a run for it’s money for fall foliage, it’s Edinburgh, Scotland. Make sure that you get to Edinburgh Castle to survey the bright colors below. Or climb up the majestic Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill for a panoramic view of the city. If you don’t want to take the hike, the Royal Botanic Garden is a great place to see Scotland in all its fall glory.

Douro Valley, Portugal. Douro Valley in Portugal will give you a different perspective on the changing colors of fall. As one of Portugal’s main wine regions, instead of trees the hillsides are covered in terraced vineyards that are brilliantly colored. Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the world’s oldest wine region, so while you’re there, take a tour (or two) of some of the wineries and sample some of the delicious wines.

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Bavarian Alps, Germany. Of course, fall in Germany is always associated with Oktoberfest, but don’t miss the spectacular autumn views of the surrounding countryside. In fact, the fall may be the best season to visit the Bavarian Alps. Take advantage of the cooler weather to hike Berchtesgaden and Lake Tegernsee to see the epic scenery. Or visit Neuschwanstein Castle in all its fall glory.

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Kyoto, Japan. Even though Japan is known for its cherry blossoms in the spring, the fall foliage in Kyoto may be more spectacular. Visit one of the many temples or Kyoto Botanical Gardens and drink in the crimson colors of the season. One of the best views may even be from the Togetsukyo Bridge, where you’ll see the hillsides filled with fall foliage.

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Nova Scotia, Canada.  Drive down Highway 2 in Nova Scotia for the gorgeous fall scenery, including serene river views, quaint farmhouses and vivid red blueberry fields along with the usual colorful foliage. Spend some time in Kejimkujik National Park exploring the area on foot or by canoe. Enjoy the numerous fall festivals throughout the season, including pumpkin carving, harvest festivals and more.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. Even in the United States, there are other places to see the beautiful colors of fall. Shenandoah National Park is one of them. Take a ride down the 105-mile long Skyline Drive to get your fill of bright orange, red and yellow leaves. Or head over to the eastern side of the park and drive along Blue Ridge Parkway which climbs several thousand feet up to Cherokee National Forest. Either way, you’ll be glad you did.

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Upstate New York. Visit the Adirondacks not only to see the fall colors but also experience the bounty of fall festivals in the area. Or drive to the Catskills to the famous “Five State Lookout” in East Windham where you can see the fall leaves in New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Connecticut simultaneously. If you’re up for a hike, trek to the summit of Mount Utsayantha in the Catskills for a 360-degree view.

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Upper Peninsula Michigan. Known for its coastlines, the Upper Peninsula is just as beautiful in the fall. Drive cross the Mackinac Bridge and along the Keweenaw Peninsula towards Copper Harbor, where the views are spectacular.

These are just a few of the many place that you can go and see the vivid foliage we associate with autumn. Give Luxury Destinations Concierge a call at (805) 236-4437 to start planning your next vacation.