Private Custom Travel: Where To Go in Autumn

Lakeside in northern Italy

In addition to being one of Europe’s most affluent locales, Lombardy is home to six breathtaking lakes, and a wealth of fabulous diversions in the fall. Branch out from Milan into numerous quaint lakeside villages on a variety of locally-guided private excursions. At the gorgeously appointed kitchen of a 14th-century estate hotel, learn to prepare classic autumnal dishes and desserts with estate-grown ingredients. While cruising along Lake Como’s stunning shoreline villas, admire the fall foliage and sip bottomless glasses of Amarone della Valpolicella. Shop in ateliers and break bread with hospitable locals in charming towns such as Sirmione, Torri del Benaco and Bardolino.

Autumn at altitude

With upwards of thirteen unique autumn festivals taking place in October and November—including the world-famous Thimpu Tshechu—the Kingdom of Bhutan is an ideal destination to explore as summer fades into fall. Temperatures never top 70 degrees, and the air is crisp and clear, revealing the grandeur of the Himalayan mountain range. Explore ornate palaces—called dzong—which exemplify the region’s distinct fortress architecture. Sleep in late, venture out on foot through hamlets and isolated farms with seasoned local guides, and indulge in Bhutan’s famous savory momo, or dumplings.

World-class wine estates

Escape cooling temperatures to explore the fertile terroir of South Africa. Summers here stretch from mid-October to mid-February. Stay at boutique hotels, opulent mansions or sprawling wine estates as you experience the country’s renowned vintages through private vertical tastings, multi-course dinners, and hands-on blending courses led by sommeliers and award-winning winemakers. Our consultants live to impress with diverting custom itineraries—whether you’re after wine, safaris or the best of both.

Timeless landscapes and UNESCO World Heritage sites

A cool, dry climate and scenes of autumnal beauty mark an early October in China. Our consultants can tailor unforgettable excursions throughout China so you can take part in all of the seasonal experiences the region has to offer. From the golden steppes of 14th-century rice fields to the electric-blue lakes and blazing foliage of Jiuzhai Valley National Park—part of a UNESCO World Heritage site—the country glows with classic autumnal beauty in the later months of the year.