Lesser-known travel spots to enjoy the change of the season with ToursByLocals
After one of the wettest summers on record in the UK, would-be travellers are crossing fingers and toes for an autumn season that will allow them to get out, travel and explore in fairer conditions. With travel restrictions continuing to ease across the world, demand for autumn holiday escapes has increased dramatically.
For those hoping to for a more tranquil and secluded break, away from the onrushing crowds and tourists – ToursByLocals has you covered. Whether you are hoping for some iconic leaf-peeping, delicious harvest surprises or even just some last summer rays, enjoy this range of customised, private tours with handpicked tour guides to inspire your travels this autumn (that you can book right now!).
Stimulate your senses in Romanian forest
Nature lovers and wine-enthusiasts alike with delight at this autumnal experience in the forests and villages of Iasi in Romania. Groups will join local expert Nicolaie who will share his deep knowledge of the area as he guides travellers through stunning forest trails. Starting in the fragrant botanical gardens, the group will then head up to the hillside villages for a jaw-dropping view of the landscape -complete with fall colours.
Along the trail, there will be stops at the famous monasteries of Dobrovat and Hadambu as well as a visit to the Geological and Paleontological reservation hidden in the secluded oaks. The tour is perfectly rounded off on the return hike with a stop at a local wine cellar for an autumn tasting of the very best Iasi has to offer.
ToursByLocals (www.toursbylocals.com) offers the six-hour Autumn leaf peeping and nature tour close to Iasi
Catch the last of the summer sun on Croatia’s secret islands
For many, autumn is about holding on to the very last of that summer sun, or if you live in the UK, it’s about finding it! When trying to find to seek out those warmer climates people rightly turn their attention to the Mediterranean – in particular, Croatia. The country boasts fantastic weather deep into October and coastal destinations such as Split remain a holiday paradise – however it is the lesser-known islands off of the coast that are really worth paying a visit to.
Groups will join local guide and skipper Milos who runs an exhilarating speedboat and hidden islands tour around the coast of Split. As part of this unique experience, Milos ventures to the more secret parts of the islands – that only the locals know about.
The whole family will love the thrilling speedboat voyage around the Krknjaši and Šolta Islands, absorbing the picturesque views of this part of the world. These islands boast secret lagoons, secluded beaches and stunning views of the main coastline.
There will also be time for swimming and snorkelling at a private Blue Lagoon area nicknamed ‘hidden paradise’ giving the children plenty of time to explore and meet some aquatic friends. This really is the perfect escape for those who aren’t quite ready to embrace the colder months!
ToursByLocals (www.toursbylocals.com) offers the eight-hour Private Speedboat Hidden Islands Tour
Dive into the local markets and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bellinzona, Switzerland
The historic Swiss town of Bellinzona is an incredible destination to visit at any time of the year however a visit in autumn may just take precedence. The recent harvest means the markets are bountiful with local produce from the nearby farms, with so much great food just waiting to be sampled and celebrated.
Groups will join local guide and food aficionado Patricia on this journey through the Ticino capital to find and savour local delicacies. On the tour, travellers will meet the locals from the town including grocers, farmers and life-long residents.
There is also time for a visit to the famous castles that stand along the Ticino Valley. These historic castles are a listed UNESCO world heritage site and the only visible example left in the entire Alpine Arc of medieval military architecture of its type. The group will stop at several viewpoints for a spectacular look at the surrounding landscape.
ToursByLocals (www.toursbylocals.com) offers the three and a half hour Bellinoza Markets and Castles Tour
Witness the changing of the leaves in Canada
While New England is known around the world for its incredible fall foliage, its nearby neighbour Canada also boasts stunning natural scenery to rival the states. Towering sugar maples are turning a brilliant orange that pops against the deep blue sky, while aspens are rustling their sunshine yellow leaves.
In Saint John, New Brunswick, local expert and accredited guide Rod will lead groups to experience all this and more. Travelling along the two major river routes in the area, groups will witness the astonishing changing colours that stretch out far and wide, only occurring at this time of year.
Rod will also tour groups around the iconic Reverse Falls that runs along the base of the rugged and colourful terrain. These rapids are produced by a running gorge and perfectly compliment the surrounding landscape to leave a truly jaw-dropping impression on those who view it. Cameras are encouraged!
