A TUI travel agent has named the Austrian region of Tyrol as a top autumn destination that often goes overlooked by British tourists, despite being a "strong choice for a quieter autumn break" for "outdoorsy" travellers.
Jane Cox, a TUI travel agent of 23 years, told the Express that the Austrian Alps are home to a beautiful region worth exploring for picture-perfect autumnal vistas.
Why Tyrol shines in autumn
Cox 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."
Travellers should pack plenty of layers. Temperatures in October hover around 18C in the lower valleys, but can drop to 10C on trails at higher altitudes. Still, it is pleasant enough for everything from a leisurely stroll to a challenging hike.
Base and guided options
According to Cox, St Johann in Tyrol 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."
For those new to hiking, tour operators such as HF Holidays, Responsible Travel and Great Rail Journeys offer guided walking tours catering to different levels. Long-distance hikers can find more information on tyrol.com, including details on walks where luggage transport can be organised.
Accommodation and travel
TUI offers a number of hotels in the area, including the 4T Hotel Park and the 4T Hotel Tyrol. Booking.com has stays from £83 a night in October.
The easiest way to get to Tyrol from the UK is a direct flight to Innsbruck, which acts as a central hub for exploring the region. easyJet and British Airways both offer direct routes from the UK, but during the autumn months these tend to depart from London airports, with other UK airports requiring a short layover. Skyscanner shows flights from £75 in November, with more flights later in the year when the region gets snowfall and becomes a winter skiing hub.
