As leaves transform into a vibrant tapestry of reds and golds in the fall, and a crispness fills the air, Eastern Canada unveils its hidden charm. Tourist crowds disperse, allowing visitors to explore the region’s charming towns, historic sites and national parks at a leisurely pace. If you’re looking for the ultimate fall vacation – stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, breathtaking scenic drives and exceptional cuisine awaits.

For travel inspiration: Canada destination guide

Resplendent colors of the Niagara Range

Crimson, copper, mahogany and burgundy. During the fall, one of the most remarkable spectacles in Eastern Canada is the vibrant display of color enveloping the landscape. In particular, the Niagara Range with its towering cliffs, thundering waterfalls and charming towns becomes a haven for luxury travelers seeking a visual feast.

The fiery reds, burnt oranges and golden yellows of the changing foliage create a breathtaking backdrop for scenic hikes, leisurely drives and unforgettable photo opportunities. And witnessing the cascading waters of Niagara Falls framed by nature’s vibrant palette is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Discover this on: Indulgence in Eastern Canada

Seasonal culinary delights

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A highlight of fall travel is the abundance of seasonal produce and thriving farm-to-table culinary scene that makes Eastern Canada even more of a gastronomic paradise at this time of year. Indulge your taste buds with exquisite dishes prepared using locally sourced ingredients, including the region’s famous apples, pumpkins, and of course, maple syrup.

 Travel with Luxury Gold and indulge in a four-course dinner at the acclaimed Play Food & Wine in Ottawa. The menu emphasizes a shared dining experience, allowing guests to sample a variety of dishes inspired by global flavors. Its small plates of fresh food utilize local, sustainable and seasonal products sourced by farmers and foragers. Enjoy a fine vintage from their extensive wine list, bask in the warmth of the fireplace and sample a wide array of delicious dishes. A unique, modern and cozy culinary experience.

Offering quintessential First Nations gastronomy to visitors in the historic district of Quebec City, Sagamité restaurant treats you to meals that are both gourmet feast and cultural experience. Over Flaming Yatista prepared tableside, discover how important fire is to the First Nations. Tracing the path of Indigenous cuisine, warm up with a traditional soup, enjoy main dishes of seafood, game meat or pasta, and finish with a decadent dessert.

These two fine eateries are highlights of the exceptional dining that awaits you on Indulgence in Eastern Canada.

You may be interested to read: Where to Experience the Best Fall Foliage

Savor the grape harvest

Niagara is the best-known wine region in Canada, growing more than 30 grape varieties at over 60 wineries, and is responsible for the majority of Canada’s wine. One of the best places to go in October, in the fall the grape harvest is a bountiful and vibrant time to explore the regions vineyards and vintages, with many harvest festivals taking place.

We invite you to enjoy the crisp air and falling leaves while sipping some of the country’s finest vintages on a VIP tour and wine tasting at Château des Charmes. You’ll be welcomed with a limited production rosé sparkling wine, followed by a tour and tasting of wines from St. David’s Bench Vineyard, accompanied by hand-made local ice cream and local fruit.

You might also enjoy: Slow and sustainable: The expectations of the luxury traveler in 2023 and beyond

The thrill of the Salmon Run

Eastern Canada’s salmon run is a remarkable natural phenomenon that attracts fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers from around the world. This annual migration of salmon is a dazzling display of determination, as these majestic fish navigate their way back to their spawning grounds.

Primarily involving Atlantic salmon, these fish spend most of their adult lives in the ocean. However, once a year, they swim upstream against strong currents to return to their natal freshwater rivers and streams to spawn. As they migrate, they also go through physical transformations, developing vibrant colors and pronounced features.

Take time out at Eastern Canada’s numerous rivers to witness this marvel and gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of nature. For visitors who prefer to observe the salmon run without fishing, there are often designated viewing areas, enabling you to witness the spectacle while minimizing disturbances to the fish.

You might be interested to read: Why a Luxury Gold Tour is Perfect for Families with Grown-up Children

Treat yourself to exceptional hotels

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Fairmont Château Laurier, Ottawa. In the fall, Ottawa transforms into a stunning display of vibrant autumn colors and the Fairmont Château Laurier, situated in the heart of downtown, provides a perfect vantage point to admire fall foliage. A historic landmark hotel known for its grand architecture and luxurious amenities, the hotel’s strategic location allows guests to easily explore nearby parks and gardens, such as Major’s Hill Park and Rideau Canal, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the changing leaves.

Enjoy fine dining, exceptional service, and some of the suites and rooms at Fairmont Château Laurier are equipped with fireplaces, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy.

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Quebec City. Perched atop the picturesque cliffs of Old Quebec, the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is renowned for its breathtaking views and rich history. The hotel features luxurious rooms and suites, treating guests to a cozy ambiance while enjoying the charm of the city.

Opulent interiors provide a warm and atmosphere, while its grand halls and elegant rooms exude a sense of timeless beauty. Guests can savor the flavors of fall with seasonal culinary delights offered at the hotel’s restaurants. Additionally, the hotel’s central location allows easy access to the city’s fall festivals, events, and the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

You may enjoy reading: 7 Luxury Gold hotels that have hosted royals, celebrities and more

One of the world’s most exquisite fall getaways, enjoy the ultimate luxury vacation with Indulgence in Eastern Canada.

You don’t always need to visit the iconic museums and galleries to see artworks by famous artists. Choose the right hotel, and you can find masterpieces right there in the hotel lobby or guestroom. From antiquities at the Hotel Metropole Venice to artworks by Dalí and Warhol at Ashford Castle in Ireland, here are some of the best Luxury Gold hotels where you can discover remarkable art collections.

Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth Hotel, Montreal

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Known for its rich history, Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth Hotel in Montreal is a feast for art lovers. The hotel is home to an exclusive art collection, created in collaboration with art curator Marie-Justine Snider, MASSIVart Collection and Sid Lee Architecture. It showcases around 124 artworks by 37 Canadian artists across 21 floors.

From paintings and drawings to photography and sculptures, there are endless treasures to explore in the hotel. You can find Paul Hardy’s Drift Glow oil painting, a sculpture by Michel De Broin, a Platner armchair, and a mixed media installation by Alexandre Berthiaume.

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There’s also the immortalised Suite 1742, where John Lennon and Yoko Ono held their iconic bed-in. From original furniture to an archival cabinet and virtual reality headset that lets you experience John and Yoko’s point of view, this is a mini museum in itself, and firmly cements the hotel as an artistic hotspot in Montreal.

Stay here: Vibrant Quebec & New England

Read more: 7 Luxury Gold hotels that have hosted royals, celebrities and more

Hotel Metropole Venice, Venice

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Venice is famed for its exquisite museums and monuments, but you can enjoy a unique private art collection with a stay at Hotel Metropole Venice. Dripping in historic grandeur, the hotel is home to an extensive collection of antiques, artworks and tapestries from all over the world.

Admire vintage fans, wallets, handbags, nutcrackers, corkscrews, crucifixes, and other precious artifacts throughout the Metropole’s corridors and rooms. There’s even a Salone degli Specchi (Hall of Mirrors) and an original painting of Selim II, Sultan of the Ottoman Empire.

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The Costume Museum of the Mocenigo Palace in Venice even once loaned the Metropole priceless pieces for a temporary exhibition, thanks to the hotel’s artistic reputation and existing collection. 

Stay here: Ultimate Italy

Read more: Expert selected: the 4 best hotel spas you can visit with Luxury Gold

The Lodge at Ashford Castle, Ireland

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Set on the spectacular 350-acre estate of Ashford Castle, overlooking Lough Corrib, The Lodge is a true hidden gem. While most come here to enjoy an Irish fine dining experience at Wilde’s Restaurant, there’s also another major drawcard – the art collection. 

You’ll discover a remarkable collection of masterpieces from Salvador Dalí’s Marjore and Andy Warhol’s Absolut Vodka to Toulouse-Lautrec’s A Portrait Of Yvette Guilbert. There’s a Henry Moore black lithograph called A Seated Woman in an Armchair, a pair of colored lithographs called Maravillas Suite by Joan Miró, and Egon Schiele’s Nude Girl With Arms Raised. From Lucienne Day and David Hockney to Henry Moore and Peter Blake, there’s some serious art here.

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It’s well worth the 20-minute walk from the magnificent Ashford Castle, where you can also meet resident artist Rick Lewis A.R.A. As one of Ireland’s most renowned artists, Lewis has produced a stunning series of paintings featuring Ashford Castle and is even available for guest commissions.

Stay here: Ultimate Ireland

Read more: Our top 10 hand-picked luxury hotel stays for 2023

The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, South Africa

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This luxurious Twelve Apostles Hotel in Cape Town hosts its own private art collection, showcasing a remarkable blend of African art and contemporary works. The pieces are scattered throughout the hotel and you’ll discover paintings, sculptures and intricate beadwork, celebrating the local culture, traditions, and natural environment. 

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Named after the rugged mountain range surrounding the hotel, the location was a source of inspiration for many artists throughout history. You can even spot the famous mountain scenes painted by the Dutch/South African painter Tinus De Jongh and his son Gabriel De Jongh.

Stay here: Spectacular South Africa

Read more: How to spend 24 hours at 7 of the most exquisite hotels around the world

Leela Palaces, India

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The Leela Palaces have created an extraordinary artistic experience for guests. At The Leela Palace Bengaluru, your artistic journey begins at the door. The dazzling 17th-century Peacock Throne which was the seat of Mughal emperors, is located at the entrance to the lobby, and the gilded peacock stonework is simply exquisite.

The Leela Palace Udaipur pays tribute to the Land of the Mewars with traditional artisanal crafts and artifacts inspired by the regal cultural heritage of Rajasthan. Its hallways are lined with a trove of Indian artwork.

The Leela Palace New Delhi has created an extraordinary artistic experience for guests. Their extensive art collection is scattered throughout the hotel, featuring works by artists such as Satish Gujral, Paresh Maity, Sanjay Bhattacharya, Satish Gupta and Laxma Goud. 

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Discover ornate Rajasthani paintings and Tanjore gold leaf paintings. Admire the artworks lining the corridors then discover the massive golden mosaic revealing a blossoming lotus bud in the central courtyard. The guestrooms and suites feature lithographs depicting Indian kings and queens, embedded with semi-precious stones and gold leaf by famed photographer Rohan Shreshta. 

You’ll also discover the exclusive Art Walk, with a rare collection of Indian art. From murals and paintings to sculptures and contemporary installations, this remarkable experience is parallel to visiting a museum or art gallery.  

Stay here: Essence of India 

Read more: Step inside the most unique luxury retreats in India

Hotel Granvia Kyoto

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If you love art hotels, you can’t miss Hotel Granvia Kyoto. Featuring over a thousand artworks by Kyoto-based artists, the hotel holds one of the most significant art collections in the country. You’ll find both traditional and contemporary Japanese art here, with the collection spread from the lobby to corridors and guest rooms.

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Whether it’s the intricately hand-painted screens, unique sculptures, or handcrafted ceramics, art is an integral part of the experience at Hotel Granvia Kyoto. It offers invaluable insight into Japan’s rich artistic heritage and the chance to get immersed in the local Kyoto art culture. 

Stay here: Majestic Japan 

Read more: A journey of a lifetime: unearthing Majestic Japan, with Luxury Gold

Driving in a classic car is an experience like no other. The vintage charm, luxurious designs, and powerful machinery under the hood – a classic car experience is all about nostalgia, romance, and style. From driving in a classic Citroën in Provence to a luxury vintage car in New Zealand’s Napier, we look at some of the most unique classic car driving experiences you can enjoy with Luxury Gold. 

What is so special about classic cars?

Driving a classic car isn’t just about getting from A to B – it’s about appreciating exceptional design and celebrating the art of travel and the thrill of the journey. A classic car is a unique way to explore and connect with a destination, giving an atmosphere of luxury and nostalgia. Our vintage driving experiences offer an exceptional journey, with iconic and historic vehicles carrying you through the world’s most beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re an automobile aficionado or simply appreciate a memorable roadtrip, these classic car experiences promise a trip filled with style.

Provence, France

For classic car admirers, few experiences are more evocative than winding through the lavender fields of Provence in a classic Citroën 2CV. We’ll take you on the drive of a lifetime in a chauffeured vintage Citroen 2CV through the Provençal countryside. Set off from Lourmarin’s market and cruise through picturesque vineyards, ancient olive groves, and idyllic villages all while enjoying the charm of the classic French car. You’ll arrive at the renowned Domaine de la Citadelle winery where you can explore the grounds and savour a gourmet picnic and wine before heading to Avignon. Sophisticated and romantic, this is the epitome of vintage French luxury. 

Experience it: Ultimate Southern France

Read more: Destination France: Live Your Parisien or Provencal Dream

Napier, New Zealand

Renowned as the Art Deco Capital of the world, Napier is a city that celebrates its vintage charm, making it the perfect location for one of our classic driving experiences. When you travel with Luxury Gold you can explore Napier in a luxurious classic car, such as a vintage Packard or Chevrolet. Your expert local guide will chauffeur you on your personal tour of Napier. 

These beautiful vehicles complement the architectural elegance of Napier, as you explore the highlights of the city’s 140 Art Deco buildings and sculptures from the comfort of your lavish vehicle. Later on, you’ll enjoy a mouthwatering dinner at Malo, with wine sourced directly from the surrounding wineries.

Experience it: The Long White Cloud

Read more: Rugged luxury: Why a Trip to New Zealand Might Surprise You

Cape Winelands, South Africa

South Africa’s spectacular landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for our classic car driving experiences. Beginning in the vibrant city of Cape Town, you’ll take your seat in a chauffeured classic car such as a vintage Mercedes-Benz or Rover. You’ll then meander through the lush green countryside of the Cape Winelands on a scenic drive through the iconic wineland towns of Paarl, Stellenbosch, and Franschhoek. 

Cruise through valleys, vineyards, wineries and cheese farms, and stop at Vergelegen Estate to indulge in an award-winning wine tasting. Next, at Boschendal Wine Estate, you’ll indulge in a seasonal Farm-to-Table lunch. Return to your chauffeured vintage car and gaze out at the stunning scenery, illuminated by the setting sun, as you return to Cape Town. 

Experience it: Spectacular South Africa

Read more: A look inside South Africa’s most beautiful – and exclusive – wineries

Other classic car driving experiences with Luxury Gold

While a scenic drive is the most immersive experience, classic car admirers will also love these vintage car experiences with Luxury Gold.

See a vintage Trabant in Kraków’s Nowa Huta district

Nowa Huta is the historic steel district of Kraków. Established during the communist era of the 1940s, the Nowa Huta Steelworks was once the largest in the world. The district is also famed as the home of the Trabant car. Known affectionately as “Trabi”, the car was one of the most common vehicles in Central and Eastern Europe during the last decades of the Cold War. 

It’s since become a symbol of the Eastern Bloc, remembered for its notorious two-stroke engine that produced a cloud of smoky exhaust, and its body made of duroplast, a form of plastic. When you travel here with Luxury Gold, you’ll have the chance to see a vintage Trabant and learn more about the history of this fascinating district. 

Experience it: Harmony of Central Europe

Read more: The scenic route: two sublime Irish drives that deliver scenery to die for

Graceland Car Museum

Any classic car admirer has likely got the Elvis Presley Automobile Museum on their bucket list. Located in the Graceland estate in Memphis, Tennessee, the former home of Elvis Presley, the museum pays tribute to the King’s love of cars.

You can see many of the iconic vehicles Elvis owned during his lifetime, from the famous Pink Cadillac Fleetwood to the 1956 Cadillac Eldorado (originally white but painted purple by Elvis). There’s the 1960 Rolls Royce Phantom V and a 1975 Dino Ferrari 308 GT4. Don’t miss the 1973 Stutz Blackhawk, one of the most unique vehicles as it was custom-made for Elvis. It was one of Elvis’ favorite cars and the last one he drove before his death in 1977. Along with cars, you’ll also find motorbikes, like the 1956 Harley Davidson, and even a 1966 red Schwinn bicycle. 

The museum doesn’t just display the vehicles; it also tells the stories behind them. Whether you’re an Elvis fan or a motorhead, it’s safe to say you’ll find something you love at this museum. 

Experience it: Southern Grace

Read more: The Royal Treatment: All the Ways We Make Your Trip Exceptional