1. New England, US

For vistas of blazing autumn hues, ?it’s difficult to beat New England in ?the good ol’ US of A. Incorporating ?the states of Vermont, Massachusetts,?New Hampshire, Connecticut and Rhode Island, the region attracts ?“leaf peepers” from around the ?world hoping to feast their eyes on ?a fireworks display of colour.

The foliage begins to morph from green to vibrant reds, yellows and russets in the northern states of Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire from mid-September. Along the coast of New Hampshire and in the southern states of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, the colour transforms a little later and can last right up until November.

A self-drive tour is the best way to enjoy the spectacular scenery and there is no shortage of routes to choose. The Mohawk Trail in Western Massachusetts was created as one of the States’ first scenic highways and does not disappoint. Taking its name from a Native American trade route it runs for 105km from Orange to Williamstown through the beautiful Berkshire Hills. The hightest peak, Mount Greylock (3491ft), affords wonderful views and there are plenty of opportunities to experience the wilderness just off the beaten track – but watch out for bears!

For a slightly different perspective on the autumn splendour, you can zipline through the tree canopy in Charlemont, west of Shelburne Falls.

The White Mountains region of New Hampshire is another area of outstanding autumnal beauty. The red maples begin to turn about now and can be appreciated from the summit of Mount Washington. At 6288ft it is the highest mountain in the north-eastern US and is accessible from the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway for those not up for a steep hike.

For a “fall” experience closer to sea level, check out Rhode Island’s famous vineyards at harvest time or drive down to Georgetown, Maine for a lobster roll. But whatever you decide on, do book ahead as you won’t be the only rubbernecking leaf-lover in town.

See: discovernewengland.org

2. Fujigoko, Japan

A popular spot in which to view cherry blossoms in the spring, Japan’s lake district also puts on a dramatic display of colour during November.

As the local maples (momiji) transform from chlorophyll-green to deep vermilion, the view of nearby Mt Fuji, floating among a sea of red, has to be seen to be believed. Aethsetics aside, Fujigoko is a great place for hiking, camping and fishing in the great outdoors before winter arrives.?

See: visitjapan.jp

3. Poland

Autumn is more than just a season in Poland – it’s a way of life, as people come out in droves to hunt for mushrooms and blueberries across the country’s rich landscape.

Particularly fetching in late October is the beautiful Lake Czorsztyn, located on the Polish-Slovakian border. When the riot of autumn colour reaches its peak in this area, it provides the perfect dramatic backdrop to the hilltop medieval castle Niedzica.

See: poland.travel/en-gb

4. Laurentian Mountains

With the maple leaf as its national emblem, Canada has no shortage of scenic spots offering up stunning autumn splendour.

Quebec’s Laurentian mountains are a particularly spectacular spot in which to enjoy this magical experience. The combination of sugar maples, yellow birch and American Beech ensure a truly kaleidoscopic showing, with colours reaching their optimum vividity from the end of September through to late October. ?

See: laurentians.com

5. Sherwood Forest, UK

Robin Hood’s old stomping ground is also the place to see some of Britain’s most stunning autumnal scenery.

With birch, ancient oaks, sweet chestnut and beech, the forest takes on a lovely golden hue this time of year. And plenty of marked walking trails and cycle paths make it easy to explore. The Major Oak, more than 800 years old, is a 30-minute stroll from the visitor centre and is a must see. Also check out the Woodland Fair at nearby Clumber Park on Oct 8-9. ?

See: sherwoodforest.org.uk