If hearing Twilight's famous hoa hoa soundtrack (“Eyes on Fire” by Blue Foundation!) has you throwing on your warmest jacket and heading for the misty hills, then buckle up, because we’ve rounded up the best destinations to match that moody and mystical aesthetic perfectly. Think crunchy leaves underfoot, cosy cafes bursting with cinnamon-scented treats and misty morning walks that make your heart skip a beat. Whether it’s the crisp air or the sudden craving to rewatch Edward and Jacob, these are the hoa hoa destinations you didn’t know you needed.
The Highlands, Scotland
It’s giving serious hoa hoa vibes. Misty mornings, moody glens and a sprinkle of Highland magic. The Cairngorms National Park is your go-to for an autumn getaway that feels straight out of a fantasy novel. Autumn here also means fewer crowds and plenty more space to enjoy some of Scotland's most fantastic scenery.
Visit Glenmore Loch, where the haze clings to the water each morning (yes, we're looking for Edward too) and you can hire kayaks or paddleboards. Don’t miss the hike to the Green Loch, officially known as An Lochan Uaine, where local legends say the emerald hue comes from fairies who bathe there. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, enjoy one of the many longer hiking trails in the region and soak up the sweeping forest views.
Tallinn, Estonia
If you’d rather swap the forests for a weekend city break, then Tallinn’s mediaeval old town, complete with cobblestone streets, towers and ancient city walls, is the perfect gothic setting for autumn. The cool, foggy mornings and the sense of history in the air make it ideal for cosying up with a hot drink in one of the many traditional taverns and reading about local legends.
We recommend joining one of the many guided ghost tours where you’ll learn some spooky stories from the city's past, followed by a stroll through Catherine’s Alley, a small street tucked away in the centre. It was built more than 700 years ago and is lined with many gorgeous 15th-17th century buildings, while the passage still retains a lot of its mediaeval charm and is now home to local shops and workshops, including ceramics and glass. Finally, the Kohtuotsa viewing platform is one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Tallinn for a great view over the red-tiled roofs.
The Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland
You've likely seen photos of the striking hexagonal stones that make the Giant's Causeway one of the most visited attractions in Northern Ireland. This natural wonder features over 40,000 columns which were formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1986. It’s one of those magical locations that will leave you questioning whether it was in fact made by mere humans, or mystical giants….
Nearby you’ll discover the Dark Hedges, an avenue of beech trees which were planted in the eighteenth century. The trees remain a beautiful sight and have even been featured in popular TV shows such as Game of Thrones. We can almost picture Edward flitting between the oddly shaped branches too!
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh was practically born for hoa hoa season. The cobblestone streets gleam in the rain, the old buildings feel extra spooky as the days become shorter and the whole city is wrapped in a timeless, moody vibe that’s perfect for autumn. Walk up the Royal Mile and enjoy incredible sights of the castle, which is where you can also enjoy panoramic views of the city below without having to pay an entrance fee.
Wander the narrow streets of Dean Village, a picturesque nook that feels like stepping back in time. Hike up Arthur’s Seat for sweeping views of the city - just bring a flask of hot tea and thank us later! Afterwards, warm up with a book in one of the many cosy cafes in the city.
The High Tatras Mountains, Slovakia
If soaring above the clouds is your idea of the perfect adventure, a visit to the High Tatras Mountains in Slovakia is sure to take your breath away. Creating a natural border between Slovakia and Poland, the High Tatras are a mountain range renowned for its dramatic peaks, misty alpine lakes and abundance of wildlife. The tallest peak, Gerlachovský štít, reaches 2,655 metres, making it the highest in the Carpathians. It’s easily accessible via a cable car which allows you to experience the incredible views without having to be a keen mountaineer!
For a gentle walk, take the tram to Štrbské Pleso where you can enjoy a flat walk around the stunning lake. In autumn, the landscape transforms with colour and moody vistas, ideal for a hoa-hoa-inspired nature escape. Come evening, enjoy traditional food in one of the many gorgeous restaurants, usually accompanied by lovely wooden interiors and a warm fire.
The Black Forest, Germany
No need to travel all the way to the rainy village of Forks in the Pacific Northwest for those Twilight like woodland walks. Known for its enchanted forests, alpine villages and of course, the delicious dessert which is the namesake of the area, The Black Forest is a haven for nature seekers and fairy tale lovers alike. Head to The Baumwipfelpfad Schwarzwald Tower for sweeping woodland views and enjoy the treetop walk as you twist and turn over the canopy of the forest. Autumn is the best time to experience the Black Forest from above, as the hues of golden browns and red carpet the horizon as far as the eye can see.
Other popular spots include the Triberg Waterfalls and Lake Titisee, both of which are ideal for your ‘hoa hoa’ nature walks and easily accessible from the town of Triberg. This area has some incredible hiking paths, so park up, grab your black forest gateaux and hit the trails.
Transylvania, Romania
We couldn’t round up this blog without mentioning the ultimate hoa hoa destination, Romania! The Cullens were vampires after all, right? Transylvania is a region steeped in rich folklore and tradition, with its mystical atmosphere enhanced by towering mountains and dense forests. It's also a haven for outdoor lovers. Visiting in autumn offers a special treat (no tricks) too, as it's grape harvest season! This is the perfect time to explore local vineyards, visit wineries, and enjoy the region’s freshly produced wines.
Transylvania is home to several mediaeval cities, but Sighișoara is a must-visit for fans of history and eerie legends. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this stunning town is one of Europe's most beautiful and best-preserved mediaeval settlements, renowned for its historical significance. The citadel is also considered to be the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, who many believe inspired the character of one of the most famous vampire legends (no, sorry not you Edward)- but Dracula!
Which of these destinations has your hoa hoa senses tingling? Whether you’re hunting vampires in Romania or hiking alpine trails in Germany, each location has so much to offer. Travelling by campervan ensures you have the freedom and flexibility to add on as many detours as you like, and park up in some beautiful destinations. So pack the projector and cosy up for your Twilight marathon - van life style!
