Five places to see autumn colours It might seem strange to be mentioning woolly jumpers, crackling fires and Pumpkin Spice Lattes what with the summer we’ve been enjoying, but there’s nothing quite like that cosy autumnal feeling we’ll soon be experiencing.
And while autumn might be beautiful here in the UK, there are locations across the world where the spectrum of autumnal colours is simply stunning. So if you’re already looking forward to what the next season has in store here’s the Flexicover team's favourite destinations for showcasing autumn scenery.
Hokkaido, Japan
Hokkaido, Japan Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is famed for its autumnal hues. The mountainous region is blanketed with trees, making the turn of the seasons here truly spectacular to witness. Hokkaido’s national parks are peppered with crystalline lakes and fizzing hot springs, lending you especially enchanting locations in which to gaze upon the golden scenery. Typically, autumn begins in Hokkaido in mid-September, so head to the unspoilt Daisetsuzan or Shiretoko National Parks to experience the season. There’s also the option of pausing at the cultural hubs of Sapporo or Hakodate for a hip city break packed with culture and artisanal produce.
New England, USA
New England, USA New England is famed for its ‘fall’ colours, presenting you with the perfect opportunity to get that cosy autumnal Instagram snap with a coffee in hand. In the northern locations of Maine and New Hampshire the season peaks around mid-October. That’s when the air is cool and crisp - perfect for hiking - and the leaves turn striking hues of red, orange and gold. Consider driving scenic Route 169, which takes you past picturesque villages like Canterbury, Pomfret and Woodstock. During harvest, take to the region’s wineries to sample a range of mouth-watering vintages, or take a trip to Connecticut’s Old Mystic to watch cider in the making.
Umbria, Italy
Umbria, Italy Every September ‘the green heart of Italy’ transforms with a kaleidoscope of autumnal tones. The hills are blanketed in golden-brown foliage, and there are plenty of hiking routes allowing you to truly immerse yourself in this enchanting scenery. Take to the Sibillini Mountains for a seasonal trek in Italy’s Central Apennines and explore the picturesque hilltop towns of Montefalco, Cannara and Bevagna. A trip to Italy’s rural regions is never complete without hopping on a vintage bike for a cycle to a vineyard and you’ll find many suitable routes in the glowing scenery of Umbria. Don’t forget to try porchetta sausages, they’re Umbria’s famed speciality.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled, Slovenia Lake Bled looks like a fairytale scene no matter what time of year you visit, but you’ll find it particularly spellbinding as the season turns. The trees surrounding the lake and iconic church turn enchanting reds and yellows, and these dramatic colours reflect in the glassy water. Don a woolly jumper and your hiking boots to explore this incredible landscape by taking a walk along the waterfront trails. Or take a boat out to the Church of the Assumption on Bled Island. For a more strenuous trek, climb up to the 11th-century Bled Castle, 130 metres above the lake and be rewarded with incredible views of the picture-perfect scene below.
Douro Valley, Portugal
Douro Valley, Portugal Portugal’s idyllic Douro Valley is famed for its wine production and breathtaking scenery, but take a trip in autumn to watch the endless vines and trees turn a rusted gold, which gives a heavenly feel to the area. Located in the north of Portugal, visit the vineyards to sample different wines and ports, or take a picnic among the vines. Alternatively, opt for an autumnal stroll in this UNESCO World Heritage site, taking in the Douro River winding its way through the valley. For wine lovers seeking a sophisticated tasting experience in gorgeous landscape, this is the perfect shorthaul destination.
Wherever you fancy heading this autumn it’s good to know that Flexicover Travel Insurance is committed to providing you with the highest level of protection to ensure you are safe and secure 24 hours a day when away.
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