National Geographic recently released its list of top ten travel destinations for enjoying autumn foliage. While these destinations are undoubtedly beautiful, there are many other places around the world with even more stunning autumn leaves.
If you have vacation time in the fall, grab your camera and immerse yourself in the romantic beauty of autumn.
Sonoma County, located in Northern California, boasts a unique display of autumn foliage. The towering redwood trees and lush grape leaves make for a striking contrast. Driving through the Sonoma Valley along Arno Drive, you will be treated to colourful fir trees and oak mosaics.
As you continue down the valley, the vineyards painted with the golden hues of the sun appear like paintings on both sides. Take a break from your drive, while basking in the satisfaction of the October harvest.
The Douro Valley in Portugal is known for its colourful terraces. In autumn, the valley takes on a whole new look as the autumn leaves transform the landscape. The river winds its way through northern Portugal into the sea, surrounded by lush and vibrant landscapes on both sides.
The terraced vineyards, painted in shades of red, orange, and gold, spread across the valley along the river's slopes, preparing for the cold winter months. Take a gentle boat ride down the 125-mile (200 km) channel and immerse yourself in the beauty of the landscape.
Popeye's Village is a hidden gem, nestled in the mountains and surrounded by water. It is so secluded that you might miss it at first glance. However, in autumn, the village comes alive with stunning autumn colours that are perfectly blended with the colourful nature around it.
The huts in the village are skillfully combined with nature, creating a beautiful scene that is sure to take your breath away.
Kanas is a beautiful destination all year round, but it is at its best in autumn, the most enchanting season in northern Altai. The primaeval forests, fairy bay, moon bay, Kanas Lake, and the quiet Tuvan villages will leave you in awe.
Haomu and Baihaba, two villages near the forested Kanas Lake area, are also worth a visit. The grasslands and birch forests of Haomu stain the entire valley in the mountainous interrupted basin where the Kanas and Haomu rivers meet.
The village of Haomu is a sight to behold in the early morning, with wooden houses scattered across the village, small bridges, flowing water, and cooking smoke curling up in the air. The picturesque snowy peaks, birch forests, and exquisite wooden houses create a fairytale-like world.
Hulunbeier in China is a vast expanse of grasslands, wetlands, and deep inland lakes. The endless grassland scenery is more beautiful than you could imagine. Erguna, the best-preserved grassland in Hulunbuir, spans 5,000 square kilometres and is also known as the largest wetland in Asia.
The rugged and magnificent grasslands, mixed with wetlands and bushes undulating and rolling, create a golden grassland look that is best enjoyed in autumn. The fertile ground is ideal for growing horses and cattle.
While National Geographic's list of top ten travel destinations for enjoying autumn foliage is a great starting point, there are many more beautiful destinations to explore around the world. These stunning autumn scenes will take your breath away, so don't forget to pack your camera and enjoy the beauty of the season.