When it comes to autumn, there’s nothing quite like somewhere that offers hiking trails in ridiculously pretty landscapes, and villages where you’ll find cosy pubs, brilliant coffee shops and nice restaurants where you can replenish after a day of exploring the outdoors. According to one TUI insider, there’s a European destination that often goes under the radar despite being a “strong choice for a quieter autumn break” for “outdoorsy” travellers.
Jane Cox has been a TUI travel agent for 23 years, and told the Express that the Austrian Alps are home to a beautiful region that’s worth exploring for picture-perfect autumnal vistas.
The travel professional recommended: “If you enjoy the outdoors, Tyrol is a fantastic choice for an autumn break. The scenery is incredible at that time of year, with the mountains taking on rich autumn colours, and the cooler temperatures make it much more comfortable for walking and exploring.”
It’s worth noting that you’ll want to pack plenty of layers if you plan to visit. Temperatures in October hover around 18C in the lower valleys, but can drop down to 10C on trails at higher altitudes. Still it’s pleasant enough to enjoy everything from a leisurely stroll to a challenging hike.
According to Jane, St Johann can be a great base. She explained: “St Johann in Tyrol is a destination I often recommend because it offers something for all abilities, whether you fancy a gentle stroll through the valleys or a more challenging mountain hike. One of my top tips is to stop off at one of the traditional mountain huts along the way to try local Austrian food and take in the views.”
Of course taking on a new hiking destination can sometimes be a little daunting, but the good news is that there are plenty of tour operators that offer guided walking tours of the region. HF Holidays, Responsible Travel and Great Rail Journeys all offer tours catering to differing levels. If you are thinking of a long-distance hike, you can find more information on tyrol.com including details on walks where you can organise luggage transport.
The easiest way to get to Tyrol from the UK is to book a direct flight to Innsbruck, which acts as a central hub from which to explore the region. easyJet and British Airways both offer direct routes from the UK but these tend to be from London airports during the autumn months, with other UK airports requiring a short layover. On Skyscanner you can find flights from £75 in November too. (There are more flights later in the year when the region gets snowfall and transforms into a winter wonderland and skiing hub).
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
