Experience colors, pure nature, and unforgettable trails

There is that one moment in the year when the sun is lower in the sky, the air smells of damp leaves, and every step you take is accompanied by the sound of rustling leaves. Autumn in Germany is perfect for hiking: varied, peaceful, and full of magic. Whether you're strolling along gentle river valleys, climbing to the highest peak of a low mountain range, or discovering historic castles—now is the time when nature and the soul blossom alike. Go on a tour to consciously experience sensational colors, stunning light, and fresh air. We promise: every step will become a great memory.

Lace up your hiking boots with us, take a deep breath, and let's discover the most beautiful regions for your next autumn adventure together.

Why fall is the best time for hiking

Autumn is not a farewell to summer, but a promise: golden hours, clear views, exciting light effects, and temperatures that are perfect for longer tours. The landscape glows in shades of red and gold, and every path is lined with little treasures, from glittering spider webs to wild fruit trees at the edge of the forest.

When nature dons its most colorful dress, perhaps the most beautiful hiking season of the year begins. In autumn, you can enjoy clear air that makes every step refreshing and a play of colors in gold, red, and orange that transforms every route into a small work of art. The trails are pleasantly quiet, the temperatures ideal—not too hot, not too cold. Added to this is that special feeling of coziness: after a tour through rustling leaves and past sweeping views, a hot soup or tea tastes twice as good.

Those who are out and about in autumn enjoy not only the beauty, but also the peace and quiet: less hustle and bustle, more space for yourself. Autumn hiking is a way to slow down, enjoy nature, and feel good all at once, and you don't have to travel far to do it, because Germany has plenty of impressive hiking regions to offer.

The most beautiful
hiking regions in autumn:
Teutoburg Forest, Eifel, or
Franconian Switzerland

Germany is a hiking country full of stories, and autumn is the perfect season to discover them. Among colorful deciduous forests, rolling hills, and centuries-old walls, there are paths that lead not only through the landscape but also through time. Some paths are hidden behind dense forests, others meander along rivers or up to castles that sit proudly on million-year-old rocks. Whether you want to follow in the footsteps of historical figures, observe rare animal species, or simply enjoy the view over a colorful valley, a new experience awaits around every corner in these regions.

Teutoburg Forest – on the trail of history and nature

Nestled between rolling hills and mysterious forests lies one of North Rhine-Westphalia's most popular hiking regions: the Teutoburg Forest. Here you will find not only well-marked trails and the imposing Ravensberg Castle, but also a variety of guided hikes offered by Teutoburg Forest Tourism. The Teutoburg Forest is especially magical in autumn: rustling leaves, golden light, and sweeping views make every hike an experience.

Around Horn-Bad Meinberg, you can discover mystical rocks and springs, while barrier-free and some accessible trails are also well suited for families and seniors. On the Hermannsweg – one of Germany's most famous high-altitude routes – you can follow in the footsteps of the legendary Battle of Varus and hike past the majestic Hermannsdenkmal monument. And when the afternoon sun settles over the treetops, the landscape feels like a stage where history and nature come together in their most beautiful autumn garb.

A particularly atmospheric tip for autumn is an early trip to the Externsteine: when the morning mist still hangs between the bizarre rocks and the first rays of sunshine make the colorful foliage glow, an almost mystical atmosphere is created. Perfect for anyone who wants to combine enjoying nature with spine-tingling moments.

The Welcome Hotel Paderborn, located directly on the edge of the low mountain range, is the ideal starting point for tours in the region.

Franconian Switzerland – rocks, caves, and little wonders

Franconian Switzerland is a true paradise for explorers. Especially in autumn, the countryside here seems almost magical: valleys shrouded in mist, colorful mixed forests, and historic towns such as Pottenstein with its famous Franconian Switzerland Museum. Those who enjoy sports can venture up steep climbs to castle ruins, while everyone else can enjoy the view along the rolling hills – an experience that will remain in your memory. There is much more to discover for hiking enthusiasts: the Frankenweg trail leads across the region, the Fränkischer Gebirgsweg trail offers the most beautiful panoramic views, and around Gößweinstein there are not only wonderful routes but also the imposing basilica by Balthasar Neumann.

An insider tip for autumn is a hike through the Wiesent Valley: the river winds idyllically through the landscape between golden yellow forests, impressive rock formations, and small mills. A detour to the Bing Cave near Streitberg is particularly beautiful, where the stalactites contrast with the warm autumn light outside to create an enchanting atmosphere. Those who prefer to stay above ground should climb the Pottenstein Skywalk. From here, your gaze wanders far across the colorful forests of Franconian Switzerland, making the magic of autumn particularly tangible.

The Welcome Hotel Residenzschloss Bamberg is an excellent base camp for discovery tours in Franconian Switzerland.

Eifel & Hohes Venn – Natural wonders formed over millions of years

If you love wild landscapes, you'll be in your element in the Eifel National Park and the neighboring High Fens. The high moor landscape in North Rhine-Westphalia is particularly spectacular in autumn. When the grasses turn golden brown, wisps of fog float over the wooden walkways, and the forests glow in warm red tones, the atmosphere becomes mystical and mysterious.

Here, in a landscape shaped by volcanoes millions of years ago, you can discover ancient maars on winding paths – deep blue crater lakes that are among the landmarks of the Eifel. Popular routes such as the Eifelsteig or the Wilder Kermeter circular trails offer magnificent views over rolling hills, vast forests, and idyllic river valleys. History lovers will find impressive evidence of times gone by at Steinfeld Abbey or the medieval Vogelsang Castle.

Extra tip: South of the national park, in Rhineland-Palatinate, there are also charming villages and small, picturesque towns where regional cuisine and rustic inns beckon. Perfect for an enjoyable break.

If you want to explore the region, the Welcome Parkhotel Euskirchen is a comfortable starting point for discovery tours, just a short drive from the Eifel National Park.

Saxon Switzerland – Rocks, steps, and wonder

If you love impressive rock formations, Saxon Switzerland is the place for you. Between the stone giants of the Bastei and the wild gorges of the Elbe, there are countless exciting hiking routes – from leisurely walks to very challenging climbing trails. The view from the high plateaus is particularly clear in autumn, and the sunset bathes the Elbe Valley in warm light.

Popular trails such as the Malerweg, one of Germany's most beautiful long-distance hiking trails, lead past bizarre rock needles, quiet caves, and breathtaking viewpoints. When the setting sun enchants the Elbe Valley in the evening, you understand why artists have found inspiration here for centuries.

Insider tip: A climb to the Carolafelsen rock in the Kirnitzschtal valley is particularly impressive. From here, you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the table mountains and the autumnal glowing forests. A quiet, less crowded place than the Bastei, it offers pure goose bump moments, especially in golden October.

Bad Arolsen & Surroundings – Small town, big nature experience

The charming town of Bad Arolsen lies in the midst of a region full of rolling hills and vast forests. The baroque town with its imposing residential palace is the ideal starting point for numerous hiking trails that are perfect for a spontaneous vacation. Colorful deciduous forests, clear air, and tranquil lakes transform every hike into a relaxing nature experience.

Popular routes lead through the Twistesee area, where water birds and reflective shores provide a picturesque backdrop, or along the ridges of the Waldecker Land with sweeping panoramas over the autumnal landscape. In the evening, the historic streets of Bad Arolsen with their cafés and small restaurants invite you to linger for a few hours – here, urban comfort and rural idyll come together in a charming way.

Insider tip: A real highlight in autumn is a tour to the Kugelsburg viewpoint near Volkmarsen, just a few kilometers from Bad Arolsen. From the castle ruins, there is a breathtaking view over forests and fields that are transformed into a colorful mosaic in the golden autumn light – especially beautiful just before sunset.

Sauerland and Lake Hennesee – Hiking between water and forests

The Sauerland is a fantastic hiking paradise – rolling hills, dense forests, and crystal-clear lakes make the region's trails a rewarding destination. Autumn is particularly beautiful around Lake Hennesee in Meschede: the water glistens in the sun, while the colorful deciduous forests transform the shores into a colorful panorama. Numerous well-marked trails, such as the Hennesee circular hiking trail or the Sauerland-Höhenflug, invite you to enjoy varied tours – sometimes leisurely along the water, sometimes sporty over the mountain ranges with sweeping views of the autumnal Sauerland.

A detour to nearby Winterberg is also worthwhile: here, the famous Rothaarsteig, one of Germany's best-known long-distance hiking trails, attracts visitors with magnificent panoramas and quiet forest passages. The section around the Kahler Asten, one of the highest mountains in North Rhine-Westphalia at 841.9 m, is particularly impressive.

Our tip: take a detour to the Himmelstreppe (Stairway to Heaven), which leads from Lake Hennesee up to the town of Meschede. When colorful leaves line the steps and the water of the lake reflects golden in the evening light, the ascent becomes a particularly atmospheric experience – and once you reach the top, you are rewarded with a view back over the sparkling Sauerland.

The Welcome Hotel Meschede, located directly on the shores of Lake Hennesee, is the perfect starting point for all your discovery tours. From here, you can not only conveniently set off into nature, but also enjoy the lake view and regional cuisine in the evening.

Packing list for your fall hike

Being well prepared is half the battle—and in fall, that means being ready for any weather. With this packing list, you can start your hiking adventure relaxed and confident:

Layered clothing: breathable underwear, warm mid-layer, windproof and waterproof jacket

Sturdy hiking boots with grippy soles

Backpack with water bottle, snacks, and possibly a thermos

Map or hiking app (also available offline)

Headwear & gloves for cool mornings

First aid kit & blister plasters

Camera or smartphone for souvenir photos

Small trash bag to keep nature clean.

Preparation and planning:
What matters

Good planning ensures that a nice idea turns into an unforgettable experience. Autumn rewards flexibility, alertness, and a little forward thinking.

Check the weather: Autumn days can change quickly—pack for sun and rain.
Start early: The light is especially beautiful in the morning, and you'll have enough time before it gets dark earlier.
Plan your provisions: Not all restaurants are open in autumn – take enough provisions with you.
Safety aspect: Pack reflectors or headlamps in case you come back later.

The right route length for your hiking level

Beginners: Start by planning 5–10 kilometers per day. This corresponds to about 2–3 hours of walking time with breaks – ideal for enjoying the scenery and still arriving at your destination relaxed.

Advanced hikers: With a little experience, 12–20 kilometers is a good distance. Depending on the altitude, you should plan for 4–6 hours.

Experienced hikers: If you regularly go on long hikes, you can also walk more than 20 kilometers. Make sure you have good shoes, enough food, and start early, as the days are shorter in fall.

Welcome Hotels –
Your cozy base camp
for the fall

As beautiful as nature is, at the end of the day, a warm room, good food, and a place where you feel welcome are what you crave. That's exactly what you'll find with us: Welcome Hotels is a family-run hotel group with locations throughout Germany. From lively cities like Frankfurt and Paderborn to idyllic places like Bad Arolsen and Bamberg.

Our hotels combine comfort with regional charm: cozy rooms to relax in, a hearty breakfast for the perfect start to a day of hiking, and often even wellness areas where you can relax your muscles after your tour. Many locations are in close proximity to popular hiking regions, so you can set off in the morning and return to the hotel relaxed in the evening, without any long journeys.

Whether you are traveling alone, as a couple, or with your family, we are hosts with heart who will make your fall vacation something special. With us, you are not just booking a room—you are securing a break that you can enjoy with all your senses.

Leisure Tips

Autumn hiking in Germany