The world's most breathtaking Autumn parks – including one that inspired a Dolly Parton song

Nestled in the Min Mountains of Sichuan, Jiuzhaigou looks like a place from a fairytale. Even in autumn, its turquoise lakes reflect the soft sunlight like giant mirrors, making it all the more magical when the surrounding maple and birch trees burst into colour and cast their reflection across water.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this Croatian gem is the ultimate European autumnal wonderland. The season transforms Plitvice’s terraced lakes and waterfalls into a glowing mosaic of copper and amber, which contrast beautifully with its vivid blue-green waters.

While everyone has their favourite London park (I'm usually a Regent's Park devotee), Hyde Park arguably becomes the capital’s ultimate autumnal oasis. Towering London planes and horse chestnuts burst to life and carpet the Serpentine’s pathways, offering a serene escape that feels worlds away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Japan’s Nikkō is world-famous for its “kōyō” – aka autumn foliage – where fiery maples frame everything, from Irohazaka Winding Road to the park’s hidden ornate shrines and temples. Stroll around Lake Chūzenji or simply take in the panoramic views.

There’s a reason Central Park features in so many cosy rom-coms. Few places capture fall like the heart of New York City, with its canopy of oaks and elms that transform Manhattan’s skyline into golden wonderland, perfect for autumnal walks around The Mall or Bow Bridge.

Set against the Julian Alps, Lake Bled and its island church are a familiar sight for us Pinterest-dwelling travellers, but it becomes even more magical when framed by autumn’s hues. From mist drifting across the lake in the early morning to its vibrant violet and yellow skies, it presents the ultimate seasonal technicolour explosion. 

This spot in the Canadian Rockies is best known for its winter sites and skiing, but its larch forests explode into colour from September, just before the snow sets in. Visit Moraine Lake or Larch Valley for sweeping mountain views where fiery foliage meets icy turquoise water.

“My Tennessee Mountain Home”, Dolly Parton once sang – and who wouldn’t after seeing this bucket list national park in all its autumnal glory. From late September, the deciduous forests along Clingmans Dome, Roaring Fork, and Cades Cove light up with colour, creating scenic drives and hiking trails with the most unforgettable views.

As a New Zealander, I can promise you that Autumn in Fiordland (March to May for any Northern Hemisphere dwellers out there!) brings a quiet, moodier beauty to its already breathtaking natural scenery. I've stopped multiple times along this route and was always greeted with fiery beech forests and towering cliffs that are nothing short of spellbinding.

Another Southern Hemisphere take on fall, the fynbos trees of this Cape Town landmark turn rich shades of red and gold, offering dramatic views that bring seasonal colour to the iconic (and aptly named) flat-topped Table Mountain.