8 autumnal adventures
12th September 2011
The leaves are turning: here's where to see them at their most spectacular
1. Ca
nada
When? September – November
Vancouver Island’s wineries are engulfed by the reds, yellows and oranges of the surrounding hills, while capital Victoria’s Butchart Gardens are an urban option. On the east coast, visit Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, throughout September for the Fall Flavors Festival.
2. N
ew England, USA
When? First two weeks in October
New England is famous for its fall splendour. Head to towns such as Manchester, Vermont, which erupts into colour during the first two weeks of October, or hike to the summit of Mt Equinox for views over the mountains and upstate New York.
3. P
oland
When? Before the snows
The High Tatras Mountains are best known for their skiing but before the snow arrives the birch, larch and oak glow an assortment of colours. The small mountain town of Zakopane is the perfect base for exploring the local lakes and hillsides via a network of hiking trails.
4. So
uth Korea
When? Late September – late October
When Koreans think fall foliage, they think Mt Seoraksan, where the leaves start changing colour earlier than anywhere else in Korea: as the weather turns, the entire peak looks as though it’s on fire. Escape the autumn chill by taking a dip in one of the natural hot springs.
5. Ari
zona Highlands, USA
When? September – October
Best known for cacti, Arizona also hosts a range of highland forests that are great in autumn. Try the White Mountains and Boyce Thompson Arboretum, near Superior (best in October), as well as higher elevations around Flagstaff, further north.
6. U
K
When? October – early November
For local fall colours, head to Westonbirt Arboretum in Gloucestershire, where over 15,000 individual specimens are on the turn in October. Or take a hike through the seven million trees of the Midlands’ National Forest.
7. S
lovenia
When? October
Mystical Lake Bled, overlooked by a Romanesque castle and host to a small island complete with a fairytale church, is bombarded with magnificent autumn shades. Hire a boat and row to the island to fully appreciate the surrounding spectacle.
8. Jap
an
When? October – November
The Japanese use the term momijigari to describe a spot of leaf-peeping accompanied by a picnic with friends. Try hills near Mt Fuji, or visit Miyajima Island, near Hiroshima, and stay for the Betchya Festival (3 November) to experience Japanese culture in a colourful frenzy.
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