Come October, the summer crowds give way to seasoned travellers looking for off-the-beaten-track locations to reconnect with nature. Red and gold hues and misty sunrises inspire long walks; and even if the days are shorter and cooler, huddling around a cosy fireplace at the end of the day is something to look forward to!
Here is our selection of the best luxury properties for enjoying autumn in all its glory.
San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge
San Lorenzo di Sebato, Italy
Up to 10 guests
Bordering with Austria, South Tyrol is a region of Italy graced by grandiose mountains, picturesque lakes and some of the country’s best ski areas. Right in the heart of it, the four-bedroom San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge is a beautifully restored alpine retreat that combines the sophistication of the bedrooms with the cosiness of the Stube. Outdoors enthusiasts can enjoy mushroom foraging or wood chopping in the 42 acres of woodland that surround the property, before warming up with tastings of local wines in the lodge’s well-stocked cellar.
Castello di Procopio
Umbria, Italy
Up to 16 guests
Perhaps more low-key than but just as gorgeous as neighbouring Tuscany, Italy’s Umbria offers rolling hills, architectural masterpieces and quaint hamlets aplenty. To enjoy the best of this underrated region, head to the medieval eight-bedroom Castello di Procopio, where guests can immerse themselves in the timeless elegance of a 12th century fortress, lounging around majestic fireplaces with a book from the library, or taking in the stunning countryside views from the terrace. For more active visitors, the property boasts a fitness centre, a sauna and a steam room to soothe tired muscles after days spent exploring the area.
Chalet 1597
Lech, Austria
Up to 12 guests
Taking its name from the year it was built, Chalet 1597 has developed with time; as Lech has grown to become the Austrian resort of choice for the rich and famous, so the property has been transformed into a luxurious five-bedroom haven, complete with sauna, spa, cinema room and wine cave. Whilst Lech may be best known for skiing, a plethora of activities in autumn abound – from trekking trails inspired by local legends, to adrenalin-fuelled climbing and paragliding, to a rich culinary scene, it is definitely a destination to discover in all seasons.
Villa du Lac
Geneva, Switzerland
Up to 6 guests
This small (just three bedrooms) but perfectly formed architectural gem on the shores of Lake Geneva is a luxurious base for guests to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Villa du Lac – part of the prestigious La Reserve hotel – provides maximum comfort and spectacular views, whilst outdoor activities will be hard to choose from: from boat tours on Lake Geneva to day trips to the nearby alpine villages, autumn days in this vibrant city will provide guests with treasured memories for years to come.
Lismore Castle
Ireland
Up to 27 guests
It’s hard to pinpoint what makes the 15-bedroom Lismore Castle such a perfect destination for holidays in autumn… Maybe it’s the extensive park where trees turn magnificent shades of red and gold. Perhaps it’s the large fireplaces which invite guests to curl up with a glass of wine and revel in the cosy atmosphere. Or it could be the array of outdoor activities available including salmon fishing, archery, horse riding, and golf. It’s hard to imagine that guests can ask for more, yet with 5-star service provided by the staff – including a private butler, concierge and chefs – if they do ask for more, they will probably receive it!
Chateau de Villers Bocage
Normandy, France
Up to 40 guests
Autumn in Normandy is a glorious celebration of food, drinks and nature. Local food festivals celebrate regional delicacies from oysters to Calvados and the countryside is ablaze with vivid shades of red and gold. With extensive landscaped gardens, an orchard, and pretty woodland areas, the 16-bedroom Chateau de Villers Bocage is the perfect base for a multigenerational family gathering, a corporate retreat, or an indulgent luxury break. Fully-staffed, this stunning property offers its guests the possibility to savour amazing experiences, from private concerts to masquerade balls.
