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Jul 29, 2019 • 4 min read
Whether it’s sipping cups of tea in Darjeeling, India, nibbling (read: devouring) cheese at a French market, or truffle tasting in Italy, travellers will find plenty of ways to fill empty bellies in October.
If you like to pair delicious dishes with amazing destinations, then lay your napkins on your lap and prepare to feast on these foodie adventures…
C’est délicieux in Lyon, France
Lyon is renowned for its diverse culinary scene featuring fantastic, high-quality food. The city boasts everything from Michelin-starred restaurants creating nouvelle cuisine—originating here—to traditional Lyonnais bouchons (family bistros) serving hearty dishes like calves’ feet and tripe sausage. Elite chefs abound in the ancient traboules (passageways built for silk-weavers), while local markets overflow with Bresse chickens, Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid mushrooms, world-class cheeses, and various types of offal. Furthermore, there are traditional charcuteries, fromageries, chocolatiers, and boulangeries to explore.
Moreover, the vineyards of the Rhône Valley lie just a stone’s throw away. October presents the perfect opportunity for enjoying autumn produce and wine tours. The cooler temperatures (10-18°C; 50-64°F) provide a cozy backdrop for indoor dining or taking lessons at one of Lyon’s culinary schools. Film aficionados should not miss the Institut Lumière, honoring the local brothers who pioneered cinematography; the Lumière Festival also takes place in October.
Wake up and smell the Tempranillo in Rioja, Spain
The northern Spanish region of La Rioja is home to approximately 1200 wineries within its small bounds. Vineyards grace the craggy Ebro River Valley, flourished with remnants of various settlers—from Neolithic to Moorish and medieval times. This tranquil area is steeped in history and is the perfect spot to relax with a drink. Visiting during autumn allows you to experience the festive harvest season, with the air thick with the scent of fermenting fruit and the vines turning golden.
Tastings are essential when exploring the region. Clusters of chateau-style wineries are found around Haro in Rioja Alta, while Rioja Alavesa showcases contemporary designs by renowned architects like Gehry and Calatrava. The capital, Logroño, is filled with bars offering affordable yet flavorful pinchos (tapas), perfect for soaking up the local wines.
Visit Darjeeling, India, for clear mountain views and a tasty cup of tea
In the early 19th century, Darjeeling was a favored health retreat for the elite of the Raj era. Today, it continues to offer a refreshing escape from the heat of West Bengal, accessible via the narrow-gauge Toy Train, operational since the 1880s. Visitors flock to Darjeeling to enjoy scones in colonial-style hotels and tour the verdant tea plantations before sipping on a cup said to be the ‘champagne of tea’.
However, the primary allure lies in the breathtaking views: a panorama of the high Himalayas, including Kanchenjunga (the planet’s third-highest peak). A crisp, clear October day is ideal for seeking stunning vistas or hiking. Ascending along the Singalila Ridge provides heart-soaring sights: from the peak of Sandakphu, four of the world’s tallest mountains, including Mt. Everest, can be gazed upon.
The fungi are fabulous in Piedmont, Italy
Situated between France and Switzerland, the northwestern region of Piedmont lies beneath the Alps and slightly away from the more frequented areas of Italy. It may not attract the same crowds as Tuscany, yet it features similarly picturesque landscapes, charming hilltop towns, and a remarkable culinary scene. This is especially prominent during autumn when Piedmont is abundant with wild mushrooms, the red Nebbiolo grapes are harvested, and the world’s most expensive fungi—white truffles—come into their prime. Other regional delights include exceptional beef, Arborio rice, and cheeses (try crumbly Castelmagno).
Head towards Alba, characterized by medieval towers and baroque and Renaissance architecture. The area boasts fine dining options and is particularly lively in October, featuring a truffle festival and a donkey race modeled after nearby Asti’s prestigious Palio horse race. Furthermore, venture into the forested Langhe hills to participate in a truffle hunt and explore small cantinas for tastings of Barbaresco and Barolo wines.
Article first published in August 2017, and last updated in July 2019
