There’s something about the leaves changing, the crisp air and the fresh apple cider that makes us want to escape to the country for a few days this time of year. Here’s a look at our Forbes Travel Guide editors’ picks for places to take in the fall splendor:
In the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains about two hours from Washington, D.C., this Five-Star hotel lets you wake up to views of the hills in an idyllic colonial town. While you can check out the sheep and onsite garden, we suggest a scenic drive culminating in an afternoon of food and wine at local vineyards like Barrel Oak Winery in nearby Delaplane, Virginia.
With all the charm of a quaint English countryside hotel, this Connecticut Five-Star inn (located about two hours north of New York City) has acres of gardens and natural landscape to leisurely explore, as well as a cozy library and front-porch seating. After a morning of pampering at its Five-Star spa, head to one of the state parks for hiking or visit a nearby farm. Complete the day with a succulent burger or bone-in New York strip at the hotel’s Dining Room.
It doesn’t get much more remote than this Four-Star hotel in northwestern Wisconsin. Hole up in a luxury room at the main lodge or in a private cabin. Then stroll around the three private lakes (and take a canoe out, of course), hit the hiking trails or bike the scenic hillside. Re-energize after a busy day outdoors with a one-of-a-kind indoor experience at the chef’s table in the dining room.
Located in the North Carolina Highlands, this luxury hotel presents both outside adventures (fishing, hiking, gem mining) and inside activities (spa, fitness center, nearby playhouse and performance center). And with seasonal events like Oktoberfest (through October 31) and the Farm Harvest Celebration and Barn Dance (November 9) on the calendar, the inn feels especially festive right now.
Photo Courtesy of Old Edwards Inn and Spa
