Just because the flowers have finished blooming doesn’t mean it’s all grey and wintry, yet. On the contrary, the most colourful season is upon us!

While it may seem a little rainier outside and the days are getting shorter, don’t let that keep you from going outside, getting fresh air and taking in as much Vitamin D as you still can. Our bodies need Vitamin D and day light more than you can imagine, and this is actually a wonderful time to take walks because everything looks different in autumn when the leaves change colours. You will see the forests, parks and cities in a whole new light, not only because of the red and yellow colours themselves, but also because of the golden glow in the air when the sun reflects on the leaves and the striking sensation that you are rediscovering places now that the ground is covered in an orange blanket.

In short: autumn is THE time to explore!

Locally

Take a day, a weekend or a few days to explore new areas. Head into nature and enjoy walks around the countryside, new or well-known:

  • Stourhead
  • Lake District
  • Perthshire, Scotland
  • Forest of Dean

If you are bound by trains, some cities are particularly beautiful in autumn such as Bristol or Edinburgh. And London is a dream to visit! With all its parks, you will find autumnal colours everywhere and you can also explore the Botanic Gardens to see trees from all around the world. Once you’ve explored as far as Richmond Park, don’t forget Brompton Cemetery – the backdrop of the old tombs and statues is beautiful against the colours.

Europe

It’s worth looking beyond the borders for your holiday as there are some beautiful locations not too far away. Some have direct flights from the UK and will take you to a completely different world.

For an unforgettable experience, Slovenia, Lapland, and southern Germany are ideal. If you want to move around more and see cities on the way, head to Italy, France or Belgium. Our recommended visits include:

  • Lake Bled, Slovenia
  • Neuschwanstein, Germany
  • Loire Valley, France
  • Bruges, Belgium
  • Tuscany, Italy
  • Lapland, Finland

Further afield

If you are planning a holiday in October or November, choose somewhere that will be beautiful in this season. Our favourites are:

  • Ontario, Canada
  • Dandenong Ranges, Australia
  • Tokyo or Nara, Japan

And if you are already planning a trip to the States, some of the most magical locations are Vermont, Aspen, Napa Valley and Lake Superior.

Have a think of the other activities you would like to do and the weather you are looking for and conduct your search from there.

Taking autumn pictures

If you want to do a little photo shoot, first consider your outfit against the colours you are expecting to see and plan for the colder temperatures as well: either include a coat you like or accessorise with a pretty scarf for the time you are in front of the camera.

Also have a think of the shots you want: A close up with a leaf in front of you? Throwing leaves and letting them fall on you? Having a leaf fight with someone? You can also take fewer personal pictures, simply burying your feet in the colourful leaves or going down on the ground to capture the colourful path. Look up regularly to get the leaves in front of the blue sky or the sunset.

What’s your favourite thing to do in Autumn?

Featured image: T_Kohei, Pixabay