One of the most magical aspects of summer changing into fall is the vibrant colors as the leaves change. The beautiful fall foliage and the crisp and comfortable weather is the perfect combination for getting outside to hike, bike and walk.
While fall across the U.S. is beautiful, there are just as many breathtaking destinations around the world boasting picture-perfect views of fall foliage. Here are some of the best places to travel to for stunning fall foliage views.
The Great Wall of China
You could argue that seeing the Great Wall of China at any time of the year is awe-inspiring. But, it’s a whole difference experience if you go during the fall – the surrounding mountains are blanketed in an array of the fall colors red, yellow, brown and dark green. In addition to the breathtaking autumn colors, fall in China is ideal because the temperatures are mild, making the long trek a bit more comfortable.
Tunnel of Love, Ukraine
The Tunnel of Love is simply magical. The leafy tunnel near the town of Klevan was created over many years as passing trains molded the trees, forming a unique passageway for trains as well as a spot for lovers to make a wish together. Now picture this tunnel coming alive with the effervescent colors of fall; that’s a spot to put on your bucket list!
Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
The Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most visited castles in Germany and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. It has actually appeared prominently in many movies and served as the inspiration for the Sleeping Beauty Castle at the center of Disneyland Park in California, Hong Kong Disneyland and Disneyland Paris. It’s a nineteenth-century Romanesque Revival palace on a rugged hill in southwest Bavaria, Germany, known for its romantic architecture and history. The castle looks even more enchanting in the fall, when the surrounding landscape is doused in autumnal colors.
Llanrwst, Wales, United Kingdom
This destination’s name is quite a tongue twister if you don’t speak Welsh. This small town is known for its beautiful views of vibrant colors in the fall. There are plenty of historic castles and chapels to visit here, but make sure you also take in the autumn view of the Y Bont Fawr Llanrwst Bridge leading to the Tu Hwnt Ir Bont Tearooms.
Swiss Alps, Switzerland
The Swiss Alps are breathtaking any time of the year. But the fall is particularly special – the summer crowds have left and the winter tourists haven’t arrived yet. The weather is brisk and the dramatic landscape is alive with fall colors.
Drammen Region, Norway
The Drammen Region boasts a vivacious urban life marked by its thriving cultural arts, including theaters, museums and art galleries. But if you head to the Drammen Region in the fall, venture to the Drammenselva River, one of Norway’s best salmon rivers. The area has a huge network of walking paths and trails surrounded by thriving fall foliage, enhanced by the way the leaves are reflected in the glassy surface of the river.
Tokyo and Kyoto, Japan
Both of these Japanese cities are known for their historic temples and landmarks – it’s what keeps tourists coming back, in addition to their bustling cities full of sites worth seeing in their own rite. But visiting these cities in the fall gives you a new way of seeing the temples and landmarks amidst the backdrop of vibrant foliage.
Where is your favorite place to appreciate fall?
Photo from http://www.travellushes.com/fallgasm/.
