The peek this fall might be at a place new to you

September 02, 2007|Real Deals, Richard P. Carpenter, Globe Correspondent

Humans are hard to satisfy. In winter, we long for the warmth of summer. In summer, we pray for cooler weather. Ah, but in autumn most of us are satisfied. For travelers, the mostly balmy weather and smaller crowds make fall an ideal time to hit the road or catch a plane. Although prices aren't always low, they are often lower than during peak season. Some autumnal offerings:

You can experience the colors of Ireland while staying in a castle. The 6th annual West of Ireland Coastal Tour, Oct. 21-27, begins at $1,799 including airfare from Boston or New York. Participants stay at Dromoland Castle, a 17th-century, multiturreted structure on a 400-acre estate in County Clare. Sites to be visited include Galway Bay, Connemara, the Burren National Park, the Cliffs of Moher, the Shannon River, Blarney, Killarney National Park, and the Ring of Kerry. Leading the group will be Patricia Preston, author of 12 books on Ireland. The trip also includes six full breakfasts, five dinners, sightseeing, admissions, and other features.

Visit irelandexpert.com or call 845-758-1232.

The Old Edwards Inn and Spa in Highlands, N.C., says it is ideally situated for leisurely walks and drives through the Smoky Mountains, with their forests of color and cascading waterfalls. The inn's Leaf Looker Package features two nights with deluxe accommodations, champagne on arrival, a country picnic lunch for two, a picnic blanket and disposable camera, and continental breakfast each morning. Starting at $679 including tax and gratuity, the package is available Oct. 1-Nov. 15.

Visit oldedwardsinn.com or call 866-526-8008.

The newly renovated Breakwater Inn &#amp Spa in Kennebunkport, Maine, calls its offering the No Leaf Unturned Package. Featured are a night in a Spa King Deluxe Room, continental breakfast, afternoon tea, dinner at Stripers Seafood Restaurant, and a $75 spa voucher per person. Prices begin at $304 per person midweek and $314 on Friday and Saturday. The offer is valid Sept. 15-Oct. 15.

Visit thebreakwaterinn.com or call 207-967-5333.

A horseback ride by day and a luxurious atmosphere at night is the promise of Deer Lodge, a boutique hotel in Lake Louise, Alberta. A new package, available through Oct. 8, includes a full day guided trail ride to Lake Agnes and the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouses, a night's accommodation, and breakfast. Prices start at about $295 per person.

Visit Canadian Rocky Mountain Resorts at crmr.com or call 800-661-1595.