Summer is ending, beautiful autumn is coming. Colorful foliage is the symbol of the season and if you are not surrounded by one, you should go out looking for one. Here are ten picks we are interested in visiting this year.
10. Vilnius, Lithuania
Autumn in Lithuania is truly beautiful. September and October are still relatively warm, often sunny, with a slightly chilly evenings. The air is fresh and exhilarating. Meanwhile the trees mesmerize with tens of different colors.
Why to go there?
Vilnius is the capital, most hip and fun city in the country. You will find numerous entertaining activities here, beautiful Old Town, historic architecture and friendly people.
9. Gorbea Natural Park, Alava and Vizcaya, The Basque Country
Located in northern Spain, Gorbea is a huge protected natural park. At the heart of the park is an eponymous peak – the 1482 m (4862 ft) tall Gorbea, which is available to climb with no special equipment. The park also features waterfalls, hiking trails, lush vegetation, diverse fauna, beautiful landscapes and forests, that look really fascinating in these misty pictures.
Why to go there?
The reserve is surrounded with various towns and makes a popular recreation area for those, who love to leave the city for a while and go to nature.
8. Daigo-ji, Kyoto, Japan
People travel to the country in spring to admire cherry blossom trees, that cover parks and cities. While it is in full bloom, autumn is much more low key, but no less beautiful. Meanwhile the famous temple complex in Kyoto provides a perfect place to meditate and have a nice stroll.
Why to go there?
Travel Japan by train – it is a quick way to get around and also allows to admire the magnificent views through the window.
7. Otago, New Zealand
Autumn takes place in March in this part of the world. Nevertheless, in Otago it is particularly beautiful. The region features fun cities and impressive nature: mountains, lakes, unspoiled forests and scenic routes.
Why to go there?
Besides various great things, the region is a major wine producer, making award winning wines. Wine makers ripe the harvest during the season.
6. Lake Ashi, Hakone, Japan
The scenic crater lake lies next to Mount Hakone, which creates an impressive backdrop. The trees, huddled on the mountainous slopes, turn into a colorful foliage, which seems like an exotic carpet, covering the vast landscape in autumn.
Why to go there?
The lake and the shrine on the shores of it are the famous attractions in here. Rightfully so – the natural wonder is truly a rear beauty.
5. Skye, Scotland
Although settled high on the map, Scotland boasts a rather temperate climate. The Gulf Stream brings warmth, which even enables palm trees grow. Meanwhile Skye is one of the most beautiful regions in the country. The rough terrain, dramatic rocks and shores are of an unearthly beauty here.
Why to go there?
It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland. Discover its autumn beauty this year.
4. New Hampshire, USA
Part of New England, New Hampshire drops into the climate zone, which has four very distinct seasons. The nature boasts rivers, lakes, mountains and forests, that make a striking foliage in fall, worth to visit and admire.
Why to go there?
The scenic Mount Washington Auto Road runs through the region. It leads to the summit of Mount Washington, thus promising spectacular panoramic views.
3. Maramures, the Carpathians, Romania
The historic region sprawls across the northeastern part of the country towards Ukraine. Basically it is a valley, surrounded with the mountains. Rivers and creeks, lush forests and overall unspoiled nature make it a true gem in the middle of Europe.
Why to go there?
It is indeed a special place in the heart of the continent. Many places and architecture are preserved by UNESCO. Local customs, food and wine are also something to discover.
2. Seoraksan National Park, Gangwon Province, South Korea
Seoraksan – the highest mountain in the country – is found in the Taebaek mountain range. The mountain is 1708 m (5603 ft) high and is surrounded with the waterfalls and temples in respect in and appreciation of nature. It makes the hiking in the park a spiritual experience.
Why to go there?
The hike to the higher mountains, including Seoraksan, might be challenging, taking up to 12 hours to come back from the top. There are many hotels and even camping areas near the park to spend the night in after a day in the mountains.
1. Central Park, New York, USA
Opened in 1857, the park is undoubtedly one of the most famous sites in the Big Apple. Located in the heart of Manhattan, Central Park serves as the recreational area for the citizens and the city’s guests. The park is especially beautiful in autumn – just take a look at those colorful leaves, foggy air, which makes the skyscrapers wallow in it and look enigmatic. It is about a time to go and see it!
Why to go there?
Today, Central Park provides with many amusing activities: kayaking and boating in a lake, bird watching, rock climbing, ice skating in winter or simply walking around and then having a picnic with friends.