Hiking in autumn in Germany Photo by Daniel J. Schwarz at Unsplash
Enjoy hiking in autumn in Germany
When the leaves turn gold, orange, and deep red, for many, the most beautiful hiking season of the year begins. Hiking in autumn in Germany means not only fresh air and exercise in nature, but also enjoyment, peace, and moments of contemplation. Particularly appealing is the combination of autumnal hiking trails and relaxing wellness hotels that pamper both body and soul. In this article, we introduce you to some of the most beautiful regions for autumn hikes—all tried and tested—and recommend select hotels that perfectly round off the experience.
The Bavarian Forest – Golden forests and granite giants
The Bavarian Forest For us, this is one of the autumn classics. As soon as the morning sun breaks through the fog, the deep forests transform into a sea of color. A particularly beautiful hike, for example, is the Goldsteig trail, which leads through dense spruce forests, mystical moorland landscapes, and granite peaks like the Grosser Arber.
Our hotel tip:
★ Wellness Hotel Jagdhof Röhrnbach
This 5-star hotel offers a 6.500 sqm spa, natural pools, and a panoramic sauna with views of the autumnal hills of the Bavarian Forest. After a long hike, end the day in style.
You can find accommodation in the Bavarian Forest here*. (Advertisement)
The Allgäu – rolling hills, clear lakes and cozy evenings
The Allgäu reveals its quiet, almost melancholic side in autumn. Around Oberstdorf, Pfronten, and the Gunzesried Valley, there are numerous easy to moderate hiking trails leading through colorful forests and along reflective mountain lakes. The view from the Nebelhorn, with the autumnal sea of colors at your feet, is particularly impressive.
Our hotel tip:
★ HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu* (Advertisement)
A hideaway that charmingly combines wellness, regional cuisine, and natural architecture. Ideal for those who want a little more than just a hot shower after a hike.
- Our advice: More hiking trails in southern Germany can be found here.
- Autumn is particularly enjoyable on these culinary tours through southern Germany.
The Eifel – volcanic lakes, forest paths and quaint villages
The Volcanic Eifel is a real insider tip for autumn. On the Eifelsteig or the Dream paths You can explore quiet paths that often lead through wild, romantic forests and along enchanted maars. The morning mist, the rustling of leaves, and the play of light in the treetops make every tour a meditative experience.
Our hotel tip:
★ Nature & Wellness Hotel Kastenholz in Wershofen
Located in the heart of nature, the hotel offers extensive wellness options, organic cuisine and direct access to the region's hiking trails.
You can find accommodation in the Vulkaneifel here*. (Advertisement)
The Harz Mountains – myths, moors and enchanting forests
The Harz Mountains unfold their full splendor in autumn, especially around Wernigerode, Schierke, and the Brocken. The Harz National Park, for example, is known for its species-rich mixed forests, which appear almost enchanted during the golden season. Whether on the Goetheweg, the Liebesbankweg, or the Teufelsstieg – the hiking trails are diverse and equally varied.
Our hotel tip:
★ Schindelbruch Nature Resort* (Advertisement)
A refuge surrounded by nature. With an award-winning spa, regional cuisine, and a modern country-style interior, it's the perfect retreat after an autumnal tour.
Our advice: Hiking trails in Northern Germany can be found here.
The Black Forest – cuckoo clocks, cherry cake and wanderlust
The Black Forest is also one of our favorite autumn regions. Especially around Baiersbronn, Freudenstadt, and in the Southern Black Forest Nature Park, countless hiking trails beckon, flanked by working huts, old mills, and picturesque valleys. Those who set out early in the morning are often rewarded with mystical misty atmospheres and wildlife encounters.
Our hotel tip:
★ Hotel Engel Obertal* (Advertisement)
A charming 5-star hotel with a large spa, gourmet cuisine, and one of the most beautiful indoor pools in the region. It's the perfect place to end the day with a glass of red wine in front of the fireplace.
Why hike in autumn in Germany?
Hiking in autumn in Germany means more than just exercise:
- A blaze of color: Nature shows itself in its most beautiful palette.
- Less crowds: Many paths are emptier than in summer and therefore ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
- Cool temperatures: perfect conditions for long as well as enjoyable tours.
- Culinary & Wellness: Regional cuisine, hot saunas and cozy evenings in the hotel round off the experience.
Tip: Discover more autumn trips here.
Conclusion: Hiking in autumn in Germany – experience with all your senses
Autumn is perfect for slow travel. Those who travel consciously can enjoy hiking as a holistic experience – engaging all of their senses. The combination of nature, exercise, relaxation, and wellness makes this season a truly pleasurable journey. Whether it's the Bavarian Forest, the Eifel, or the Black Forest – each region has its own charm. And with the right hotel, a hiking trip becomes a lasting experience.
Tip: It is worth booking early – many of the hotels mentioned are in good condition for hiking in autumn. Germany in high demand.
Questions and answers about hiking in autumn in Germany
Why is autumn a particularly beautiful season for hiking in Germany?
Many hikers consider autumn to be the most beautiful season because nature transforms into a sea of color. The forests glow in shades of yellow, orange, and red; the light is softer; the air is clear and fresh. At the same time, many hiking trails are significantly less frequented than in summer. This allows you to experience nature in a soothing tranquility. The temperatures are also pleasant: not too hot, but still far from wintery. This makes autumn ideal for connoisseurs and photographers – for mindful walking, pausing, and exploring.
Which regions in Germany are particularly suitable for hiking in autumn?
Germany offers a wealth of autumn hiking destinations – we particularly recommend:
- Bavarian Forest: Dense forests, mystical atmosphere in the fog and lonely paths.
- Allgäu: Colorful alpine meadows, crystal-clear mountain lakes and rustic mountain huts.
- Eifel: Volcanic landscapes, maars and dream paths with autumn magic.
- Harz: Colorful deciduous forests, moors and the legendary Brocken.
- Black Forest: Dense forests, autumnal mountain ranges and opportunities for refreshment.
These regions combine diverse nature with good infrastructure and comfortable accommodations – many of which offer wellness facilities.
What equipment is particularly important when hiking in autumn in Germany?
The weather is changeable in autumn, so you should be especially well prepared. Here's what you should pack:
- Weatherproof clothing: A breathable rain jacket is a must.
- Layering principle: Several thin layers provide better warmth than one thick one.
- Good hiking boots with a treaded sole for slippery paths.
- Hat and gloves for cooler mornings.
- Headlamp, as it gets dark earlier.
- Thermos flask with tea or soup – for warmth and enjoyment on the go.
- It is also useful to have a hiking map or app with offline navigation in case reception fails.
How safe is hiking in autumn in Germany, for example, in foggy or wet conditions?
With proper preparation, hiking in the fall is safe. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Fog can severely limit visibility – always stay on marked trails.
- Slippery leaves or wet roots: Pay special attention to your footing and consider using hiking poles.
- Weather changes are more frequent – so check weather reports regularly.
- Daylight is shorter: start early enough and plan your tour so that you return before dark.
- A power bank for your cell phone and a headlamp can be very helpful in an emergency.
Are there special culinary experiences for hikers in autumn?
Yes, and they are a true highlight of the season. Many regional inns and alpine huts offer seasonal specialties in autumn:
- In Bavaria: Schwammerl dishes (mushrooms), game, pumpkin and hearty snacks.
- In the Allgäu: cheese spaetzle, venison ragout or apple fritters.
- In the Eifel and Harz: onion cake and Federweißer, chestnut dishes, game goulash.
- Hikers in the fall often experience harvest festivals or farmers' markets along the trails – a real feast for connoisseurs!
Where can I find good hiking trails with places to stop for refreshments and wellness hotels?
Many regions have hiking portals with well-documented routes, tips for refreshments, and accommodation. Recommended sources include:
- The official tourism websites of the regions (e.g. Allgäu.de, Bayerischer-Wald.de, Eifel.info).
- Hiking platforms such as Komoot, outdoor active or mountaineer.
- Blogs and reports from hikers with a focus on leisurely hiking, such as TravelWorldOnline.
If wellness is important to you, look for terms like "wellness hotel," "adults only," or "spa & culinary" when searching for a hotel. Many hotels even offer special packages for hikers in the fall—including packed lunches, maps, and a massage.
How do I plan a relaxing autumn hike with an overnight stay?
The combination of hiking and spending the night in nature can be particularly relaxing. Here's how to do it:
- Choose a region that appeals to you in terms of landscape and cuisine.
- Look for accommodation that is well located – ideally close to hiking trails and with wellness options.
- Plan a route that suits your fitness level – preferably a little shorter, but with more time for enjoyment.
- Book early, as many wellness hotels are busy in autumn.
- Incorporate highlights: for example, a stop at a hut, a view, or a regional festival.
With this planning, a simple hike becomes a real experience – relaxing, inspiring and full of autumn joy.
About the authors:
Monika and Petar Fuchs are leisurely hikers who have been exploring the most beautiful regions of Germany and Europe for over two decades. Their particular passion is hiking with all the senses – off the beaten track, always with an eye for nature, culture, and culinary discoveries. Whether on the mystical paths of the Bavarian Forest, the scenic high-altitude trails of the Alps, the rolling hills of the Allgäu, or the volcanic landscapes of the Eifel – they are always on the lookout for special experiences that touch the body and soul.
In her travel blog TravelWorldOnline They share not only their best hiking tips, but also select recommendations for charming accommodations, regional cuisine, and leisurely travel. Their focus: quality over quantity, slowing down over haste. With in-depth experience, a loving eye for detail, and a keen sense for routes full of enjoyment, they inspire all those who want to harmoniously combine the experience of nature with comfort.
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