The autumn season has arrived, and travelers are dreaming about crisp, colorful leaves, wool sweaters, and cozy spiced beverages.
For those hoping to experience the season in the most autumnal places in the world, Holafly, a travel eSim provider platform, has whipped up a list of the 10 coziest countryside destinations. In order to create their list, the people at Holafly drew from locations throughout the northern hemisphere using data sourced from Pinterest and Airbnb. Among gorgeous choices in Europe and the U.K. is one iconic destination in the U.S.: the countryside of Vermont.
The New England state of less than a million residents is famous for its lush foliage, and every year, leaf peepers descend upon the state to see the vibrant colors of fall. Much of Vermont is rural, with historic covered bridges and small towns that dot the state, making it a great place to take a scenic drive. Activities like apple picking are popular in the fall, and there are many cozy bed and breakfasts and other accommodations for travelers. Some popular towns to visit in Vermont to capture the full scope of its autumnal splendor are Stowe, Bristol, Woodstock, Middlebury, Greensboro, Elmore, and Winooski.
“As travelers seek solace and connection in an increasingly digital world, the allure of the countryside has never been stronger. The fall season, with its vibrant foliage and crisp air, offers the perfect backdrop for unwinding,” Brenda Beltrán, content manager at Holafly, said in a statement obtained by Travel + Leisure. “The uptick in searches for countryside retreats highlights a collective desire to embrace nature’s tranquility and rediscover simpler pleasures.”
Only one other destination in North America made an appearance on Holafly’s list is Prince Edward County, Canada, which was noted for its stunning lake views and plethora of wineries, art galleries, and harvest festivals alongside a lively art scene. The rest of the list is rounded out by the European destinations of Lucerne, Switzerland; the Cotswolds, England; Black Forest, Germany; Loire Valley, France; Tuscany, Italy; Hallstatt, Austria; Asturias, Spain; and the Scottish Highlands, Scotland.
Each destination presents a unique way to experience fall, whether it’s with dramatic mountains, fields of vineyards, stunning lakes, dense woodlands, charming villages, or medieval architecture. So, no matter where you choose to visit, you’re sure to have an unforgettable autumn experience.
