Autumn Destinations with Stunning Fall Foliage

Discover the best destinations for stunning fall foliage, from New England's iconic landscapes to Japan's enchanting temples.

As the crisp air of autumn arrives, there’s no better time to embark on a journey to witness the breathtaking transformation of landscapes into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Fall foliage season offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience nature at its most colourful. Whether you're a seasoned leaf peeper or someone looking to soak in the beauty of autumn for the first time, here are some top destinations where you can enjoy stunning fall foliage.

1. New England, USA: The Quintessential Fall Destination

New England is synonymous with fall foliage, and for a good reason. States like Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine boast some of the most picturesque autumn landscapes in the world. The winding roads, covered bridges, and quaint towns are framed by hillsides ablaze with colour.

In Vermont, the Green Mountains transform into a vivid display, while New Hampshire’s White Mountains offer scenic drives along the Kancamagus Highway. Don’t miss Acadia National Park in Maine, where you can hike or drive through colourful forests with the ocean as a backdrop. Peak foliage in New England usually occurs from late September to mid-October.

2. Kyoto, Japan: A Cultural and Natural Wonderland

Kyoto, Japan, is renowned for its historical temples and gardens, which become even more enchanting during the fall season. The vibrant hues of Japanese maple trees (momiji) create a striking contrast against the traditional architecture.

One of the best places to view the fall foliage in Kyoto is at Tofuku-ji Temple, where a sea of red and orange leaves can be seen from the temple’s famous bridge. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove also offers a unique experience with its mix of fall colours and towering bamboo. Fall foliage in Kyoto typically peaks in mid-November.

3. The Laurentian Mountains, Canada: A Hidden Gem

The Laurentian Mountains in Quebec, Canada, are often overshadowed by more famous destinations, but this region offers some of the most spectacular fall foliage in North America. The mountains are a short drive from Montreal and provide a perfect escape into nature.

Mont-Tremblant National Park is a prime location for leaf peeping, with its expansive forests, pristine lakes, and numerous hiking trails. The Laurentian's are also known for charming villages like Saint-Sauveur, where you can enjoy local cuisine and the beautiful autumn scenery. Peak foliage in this region generally occurs from late September to early October.

4. Bavaria, Germany: A Fairy-Tale Autumn

Bavaria, in southern Germany, is another destination where fall transforms the landscape into a fairy-tale setting. The region’s castles, forests, and alpine meadows are set against a backdrop of golden leaves, making it a magical place to visit during autumn.

Neuschwanstein Castle, with its dramatic setting among the Bavarian Alps, is particularly stunning surrounded by fall colours. The Romantic Road, a famous scenic route, offers countless opportunities to explore picturesque villages and forests. Foliage in Bavaria typically peaks in early to mid-October.

5. The Lake District, England: Poetic Beauty

The Lake District in England is known for its breathtaking scenery, and autumn adds an extra layer of charm to this already stunning region. The combination of rolling hills, serene lakes, and vibrant woodlands makes it an ideal destination for fall foliage enthusiasts.

Take a hike up Catbells or enjoy a boat ride on Lake Windermere to fully appreciate the beauty of the fall colours reflected in the water. The region’s quaint villages, like Grasmere, provide cozy spots to relax after a day of exploring. Peak foliage in the Lake District typically occurs from mid-October to early November.

6. Jiuzhaigou Valley, China: A Hidden Treasure

Jiuzhaigou Valley, located in Sichuan Province, China, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers one of the most unique fall foliage experiences in the world. The valley is famous for its multi-colored lakes, waterfalls, and forests, which become even more vibrant during the fall season.

The crystal-clear waters of the lakes reflect the surrounding autumnal colours, creating a mesmerising display. The valley’s diverse ecosystems and elevation changes mean that you can see a variety of foliage types, from fiery red maples to golden larches. The best time to visit Jiuzhaigou for fall foliage is from late October to early November.

7. The Great Smoky Mountains, USA: A Foliage Wonderland

The Great Smoky Mountains, straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, are one of the most popular destinations in the U.S. for fall foliage. The park’s diverse range of elevations results in a long foliage season, with different trees turning at different times.

Clingmans Dome and Newfound Gap are two of the best spots in the park to take in panoramic views of the colourful landscape. For a more immersive experience, hike along the Appalachian Trail or drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. Peak foliage in the Great Smoky Mountains occurs from mid-October to early November.

8. Patagonia, Argentina & Chile: A South American Foliage Surprise

Patagonia might not be the first place that comes to mind for fall foliage, but this region offers a stunning display of colours that contrast beautifully with its dramatic landscapes. Both the Argentine and Chilean sides of Patagonia are worth exploring during autumn.

In Argentina, Los Glaciares National Park offers views of fall colours set against towering glaciers and jagged peaks. In Chile, Torres del Paine National Park provides a similarly breathtaking experience with its mix of forests, mountains, and pristine lakes. Fall foliage in Patagonia peaks from late March to early April, as the seasons are reversed in the Southern Hemisphere.

9. The Douro Valley, Portugal: A Vineyards’ Fall Spectacle

The Douro Valley in Portugal is famous for its terraced vineyards, which turn a beautiful shade of gold and red during the fall season. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the oldest wine regions in the world, and autumn is the perfect time to visit for both foliage and wine lovers.

Take a boat cruise along the Douro River to see the vineyards in all their autumnal glory, or visit one of the many wine estates for a tasting. The quaint towns and villages in the region, such as Pinhão, offer additional opportunities to enjoy the local culture and cuisine. Peak foliage in the Douro Valley typically occurs from late October to early November.

10. The Adirondacks, USA: A Fall Foliage Paradise

The Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York are another top destination for fall foliage in the United States. The region’s vast forests, numerous lakes, and rolling hills create a stunning canvas of autumn colours.

Lake Placid and Saranac Lake are two of the best spots to base your foliage exploration, offering easy access to scenic drives, hiking trails, and cosy accommodations. The High Peaks region, with its towering mountains and expansive views, is particularly spectacular during the fall season. Peak foliage in the Adirondacks typically occurs from late September to mid-October.