As the nights lengthen and winter coats come out, summer feels truly behind us. But luckily, Autumn brings one of nature’s most spectacular displays, with foliage turning to fiery reds, ambers and golden hues across forests, mountains, and city parks.
Brits are eager to experience this natural wonder first-hand, with searches for “best autumn holiday destinations” rising by over +300% in the past three months.
For those looking to discover the perfect autumn getaway, Gianni Leone, Senior Product Director at Away Holidays has curated a list of the best destinations for seeing the best autumn foliage. From strolling beneath the iconic Japanese Maples (Momiji) and Ginkgo Tree (Icho), to the Red Maple and Birch of North America, these locations are perfect for experiencing the fiery colours that come with the change in seasons.
September Foliage
New England, USA
Best Time: Late September – mid-October
“Nowhere does Autumn like America, from its vibrant leaves to the way it celebrates Halloween. The White Mountains in New Hampshire are a classic autumn getaway, with peaks and dense forests filled with Maple, Beech and Birch that glow in oranges and golds throughout September and October. For travellers looking to explore some urban areas, Stowe, in Vermont, is just a two-hour drive away and is famous for its picturesque views of Mount Mansfield, where visitors can enjoy hiking, scenic drives, and cable car rides offering panoramic views of the fall foliage.”
Quebec & Ontario, Canada
Best Time: Late September – mid October
“Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario and the Laurentian Mountains in Quebec are both top fall destinations, offering stunning autumn landscapes. Algonquin Park is renowned for its maple forests, calm lakes, and dramatic hardwoods like Sugar Maple and Yellow Birch, Red Pine, and White Pine are also found in the eastern areas of the park.”
“The Laurentian Mountains, just north of Montreal, are famous for their rolling hills and picturesque villages, like Mont-Tremblant, which offers views of Lake Tremblant and also has reduced crowds in comparison to the winter months.”
Huangshan, China
Best Time: Late September – early October
“China’s Yellow Mountains are dotted with Red Maples and ancient pines. When autumn arrives in Anhui’s Huangshan Mountain Scenic Area, crisp air and colourful leaves take over the peaks, offering some of China’s most spectacular seasonal scenery.
“If you visit at this time of year, you also may be lucky enough to see the natural phenomenon of the ‘sea of clouds’”
October Foliage
Dolomites, Italy
Best Time: Mid October – early November
“The Dolomites are increasingly popular on TikTok, with over 200k hashtags showcasing the region. While it’s best known for summer hiking, autumn transforms the valleys with orange European Larch and Norwegian Spruce.”
“The Val di Funes region is perfect for getting the most out of autumn foliage, due to its sweeping views of the Odle and Geisler peaks.”
Seoul & Nami Island, South Korea
Best Time: Mid October – early November
“In Seoul, Changdeokgung Palace’s Secret Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site, bursts into colour during the Autumn months, nestled in one of the most well-preserved palaces from the Joseon Dynasty.
“Meanwhile, Nami Island is famed for its golden ginkgo tree avenue, forming a natural tunnel perfect for strolling or cycling beneath the autumn light.”
Hoh Rainforest, Washington, USA
Best Time: Late September – October
“If you enjoy a rainy Autumnal experience, Hoh is the place to visit with up to 6 inches of rainfall a day; the start of its rainy season begins in autumn. It’s one of the few temperate rainforests in the world, the deciduous trees change into yellows, oranges, and reds and contrast against the greens of the rainforest.”
November Foliage
Kyoto, Japan
Best Time: Mid November – early December
“Kyoto is an ultimate bucket list destination for autumn foliage travel, known as koyo or momiji (maple viewing). Unlike many destinations, Kyoto’s autumn colours frame its ancient temples and shrines, such as Kinkaku-ji and Daitoku-ji, perfect for those looking to experience culture and nature.”
Lake Kawaguchi, Japan
Best Time: Late October – mid November
“Near Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi is one of Japan’s most underrated foliage spots. The crimson maple leaves frame Fuji’s snow-capped peak, offering one of the most iconic seasonal views in the country.”
Valley, China
Best Time: October – November
“This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sichuan Province is often overlooked compared to Japan, but its multicoloured lakes, waterfalls, and forested valleys create one of the world’s most surreal autumn landscapes.”
Tips for Booking Your Autumn Foliage Trip
1. Plan Early for Popular Destinations
If you’re aiming to see top autumn spots like Kyoto, New England, or Lake Kawaguchi, it’s worth booking early, sometimes up to 12 months in advance. Peak foliage can coincide with local festivals, so securing flights and accommodation now for next year helps guarantee the best views without the stress of sold-out hotels or expensive last-minute fares.
2. Factor in Long-Haul Travel
Many of the most spectacular foliage destinations are a long flight away. Try to build in a few extra days to recover from jet lag and truly enjoy the scenery. Consider overnight flights or breaking up your journey with a stopover to make the trip more comfortable.
3. Time Your Trip Around Peak Foliage
Foliage peak times vary widely depending on latitude and altitude. For example:
- New England & Canada: Late September to mid October
- Kyoto, Japan: Mid November to early December
- Far East mountain regions (Huangshan, Jiuzhaigou): Late September – November
Check local foliage forecasts and be flexible with dates to catch the leaves at their most vibrant.
4. Explore Responsibly
When visiting natural sites, respect trails, wildlife, and local communities. Avoid trampling delicate areas, and follow “leave no trace” principles. Support local businesses by eating at nearby restaurants, shopping locally, and choosing eco-friendly tour operators where possible.
5. Mix Popular and Lesser-Known Spots
Famous spots are incredible but often crowded. Balance your itinerary with off-the-beaten-path destinations like Jiuzhaigou Valley or Lake Kawaguchi, and enjoy quieter, equally stunning experiences.
Gianni comments, “Autumn foliage travel is a chance to see the world at its most colourful. From Mont-Tremblant’s golden maples to Nami Island’s crimson avenues, planning around peak colour ensures the best views. These trips let you reconnect with nature, explore destinations thoughtfully, and enjoy local culture along the way.”
For more information or to book you next adventure visit: https://www.awayholidays.co.uk/
