Autumn is the perfect season for a quiet getaway. As summer ends, the big tourist crowds finally fade away. If you want genuine travel ideas without the heavy traffic, we gathered some amazing spots based on expert data from Lonely Planet. Here are ten beautiful fall destinations where you can actually relax.
Southeast Turkey for quiet beaches
If you want a peaceful beach vacation, Turkey’s southeast shore in fall is perfect. The water remains warm even as the big tourist crowds pack up and go home. You can chill out in Ç?ral? or roam Patara’s huge sandy beach. Little sea turtles also hatch here around September, which is wonderful to watch.
Isle Royale, Michigan for getting off the grid
This is one of the least visited national parks because you can only get there by floatplane or ferry. September brings fewer bugs, but it is still warm enough to kayak and camp out. You will probably spot moose and otters while paddling through the beautiful inland lakes.
Northern Kenya for safaris without crowds
You have probably never heard of the Laikipia Plateau, which is exactly why this place is a dream. Fall brings lower prices, and you will likely be completely alone with the animals. It is a fantastic chance to see lions and elephants without a dozen jeeps blocking your view.
Alta Via Dolomites, Italy for an epic trek
The Dolomites offer some of the best looking mountain peaks in Europe, and late September is the perfect time to hike. You get dramatic rocky paths and wildflower meadows along with mountain huts that serve up huge portions of amazing food. The trails are very peaceful this time of year.
Bocas del Toro, Panama for water sports
This slow paced island chain is a favorite for backpackers, and fall brings dry, sunny weather. It is a prime location to chill out on the sand without fighting for a tiny patch of beach space. You can also explore plenty of water sports before trying out the local food.
Nara, Japan for fall foliage
Japan is famous for its autumn colors, but Nara adds something special with over a thousand friendly deer roaming freely. These gentle animals have actually learned to bow to visitors for special crackers. It is a stunning place to watch the leaves change color without the overwhelming crowds of Tokyo.
Menorca, Spain for warm weather
Once the intense heat drops, the hardcore beach tourists pack up, but the sun is definitely not gone yet. The Mediterranean water stays delightfully warm in early autumn, so you will have these glorious beaches to yourself. You can hike the coastal circuits or marvel at ancient monuments in peace.
Cusco region, Peru for hiking
If you go to Cusco during October the giant tourist lines disappear right before the rain starts pouring down. You get to hike through wide open mountain wilderness and enjoy crisp views of high snowy peaks. Plus the Choquequirao route brings you straight to an amazing ancient castle without any hassle.
Prince Edward Island, Canada for gentle biking
Car free trails built on old train tracks make biking across this land smooth and simple. Coming in September gives you quiet roads since summer visitors left and temperatures stay very comfortable. Expect nice peaceful views of farms and quiet fishing villages as you cycle along every day.
Fez, Morocco for stepping back in time
Fez welcomes visitors through its grand blue gates into a town that feels totally stuck in history. Since autumn cools the city down you can wander through tiny back alleys without feeling super hot. It is awesome to check out bright tile artwork and try tasty traditional food along the way.
