Autumn was my least favorite season once upon a time (probably because anything below 70 degrees is freezing to me). However, at some point, I came to my senses and realized it’s actually one of the best times of the year! Yesterday, Karl and I even picked the official date for our wedding, and yep, we’re getting married next fall. The world transforms into a giant canvas of brilliant fall colors during autumn, and I put together a list of places you must visit to experience it.
Last year I wrote a very similar post about places to experience “fallgasms” around the world. I can’t help but to scratch my head whenever I go back and read the intro for that blog post though. Was I in a frisky mood when I wrote that? I do recall drinking wine while drafting that list. This year, I decided to remix that post a little. My job is to inspire you to take the plunge and actually travel to the destinations we post about (or anywhere for that matter). I personally like to do that by sharing photos posted by real travelers just like you. So I scoured the Gram and updated this list with new photos and a few extra places to give you that fall travel itch.
1. Tunnel of Love, Ukraine
Fall in love when you visit this eye-catching fairytale railway in Klevan, Ukraine. Legend has it that if you and your sweetheart enter the Tunnel of Love and make a wish, it will come true (*cue Disney music*).
2. The Great Wall of China
When fall arrives here, the mountains are blanketed in an array of fall colors. This time of year is often recommended as the best season to visit this famous Chinese landmark.
3. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Experience autumn like a royal at this enchanted castle near Füssen, Germany. We actually recommend visiting this destination during fall when the temperature is mild and the landscape is doused with color.
(Read our post “Daily Escape: Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany”)
4. Scaleber Force Waterfall, Yorkshire Dales
Two things that go together to create great fallgasms are waterfalls and autumn foliage. How could you ever go wrong combining these together?
5. Central Otago, New Zealand
You can’t go wrong with a vibrant landscape complete with rugged mountains, lakes, rivers and vineyards. Visit New Zealand during fall when the summer crowds dissipate and the weather is just right.
6. Tasmania, Australia
Behold – the home of the Tasmanian devil (which is way cuter than the cartoon character). Autumn is a great time to visit the national parks in Tasmania to experience its milder weather, clear days, and changing colors.
7. Llanrwst, Wales, England
Can you pronounce this? Llanrwst is a tongue twister for those of us who don’t speak Welsh, but its beautiful view isn’t hard to comprehend at all.
8. Swiss Alps, Switzerland
Autumn in the Alps is quite special. The summer vacationers vanish, the local kids are back in school, and the brisk weather is perfect for those long outdoor walks. Its already dramatic landscape begins to dance with color for those lucky tourists who get the opportunity to visit during the fall season.
9. Kashmir Valley, India
Autumn in India’s Kashmir Valley is characterized by shades of red and golden colored chinar leaves. Tourists tend to flock to Kashmir during this season to experience the colorful chinar trees, as well as the sounds of fallen leaves crunching beneath their shoes.
JAPAN
My two favorite times to visit Japan are spring and autumn. I visited Japan a few years ago in the month of November and will never forget the way Japan’s temples and various landmarks were brought to life amidst the fall foliage.
10. Tokyo, Japan
Throwback photo from a fall trip to Tokyo:
11. Kyoto, Japan
USA
Fall in the USA is a favorite among both tourists and US natives. Whether you explore certain cities by bike, boat, or back roads, you’ll be sure to see a colorful view in the various American states that are known for their fall foliage.
12. Vermont
13. Blackwater Falls State Park, West Virginia
14. Central Park, New York
15. Snake River, Wyoming
16. Sierra Nevada Mountains, California
17. Denali National Park, Alaska
18. Aspen, Colorado
19. Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Washington
CANADA
Canada’s landscape absolutely lights up with blazing autumn colors the moment summer turns into fall. Exploring Canada during this season can be a great option for couples; there’s something relaxing and romantic about the vivid changes autumn spreads across Canada’s lands.
20. Agawa Canyon, Ontario
22. Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
