It has been nothing short of a fantastic summer this year. We’ve had extra bank holidays, nationwide celebrations and more sport than we knew what to do with.
Of course, this summer was missing one rather important ingredient – some warm and sunny weather. It has been the wettest summer for 100 years, with washouts regularly spoiling our plans for a BBQ or an evening in a pub garden.
Being British, we didn’t let a couple of rain droplets stop us from making the most of this memorable summer. But it’s fair to say we’re all hoping for something a little better next time around.
As autumn starts to draw in, the threat of a long and cold winter is beginning to loom. But dark days and cold nights are still a long way off, and we have the beautiful autumn months to enjoy first.
The temperatures may be dropping, but autumn is one of the best times of year for a holiday. Prices drop after the summer peak, popular destinations are less busy, and everything takes on an autumnal beauty.
From staycations here in the UK to natural beauty spots a little further afield, there are plenty of options for the autumn holidaymaker. So, where should you go to soak up this season in all its rustic, natural beauty?
New Forest, Hampshire
With the children all heading back to school, now is the perfect time for a domestic holiday. Hotels and Bed & Breakfasts will be quieter, and prices will be lower.
There is a wealth of great autumn destinations here in the UK, but one of the best is the New Forest.
With bell heather providing a purple blanket to add the autumnal greens and browns, the New Forest takes on a somewhat traditional feel during the autumn months – you’ll feel like you’re walking through a Jane Austen novel.
Tuscany, Italy
If you’re planning an autumn break this year but can’t quite bear the thought of that wintery weather, a trip to Tuscany could be right for you.
This gorgeous Italian region stays warm throughout September and most of October, and is generally free of the hordes of Italian tourists that are usually found in the area.
Not only that, but this is the time of year when the wine harvest is taking place, with grape festivals held across the region. What could be better?
New York, USA
Autumn is a season best known for its natural beauty, but a city break can be a different experience at this time of year.
The likes of London and Paris are a great option, but for a truly spectacular autumn city break you can’t beat New York.
A trip to the Big Apple is great at any time of year, but in the autumn it takes on a magical feel that is hard to find anywhere else.
The whole city is transformed in autumn, but it is Central Park that looks most breathtaking. With the maple and elm tress turning a vibrant shade of orange and yellow, the huge urban park has never looked so good.
French Alps
Most people will only visit the Alps for a ski holiday in the winter months or a walking or cycling holiday at the height of summer. But the transitional period between the two seasons also has plenty to offer.
The snow is yet to fall but the temperatures are dropping, giving everything a fresh, crisp feel. The sun is still shining but the days are getting shorter, creating fantastic light conditions that would have any photographer in heaven.
Many ski resorts are starting to open for business, so head to somewhere like Chamonix for a quiet getaway in the mountains.
New England, USA
No look at autumn getaways would be complete without New England, a region on the East coast of America which incorporates six states.
Autumn is a big deal in New England, as the plethora of trees and foliage in the region turn a dazzling array of colours.
In amongst the fiery reds and almost luminous oranges, the farms of New England are packed with delicious pumpkins, blueberries and corn on the cob. A trip to this perfect autumnal destination is a delight for the taste buds as well as the eyes. Have a look at our post on the Killington Hay Festival that runs until October 8.
(Images: Kelsey_lovefusionphoto, ClifB, Glen Bowman, asterix611, masondan, Jane’s America)
