Photo by Fred Paulussen
Hidden Autumn Weekend Getaway spots in Germany
Summer is slowly coming to an end and you’re not too sure where to go this autumn 2020? Lucky for you, we recommend exploring Germany and its beautiful regions and landscapes within it. It’s the ideal destination for anyone looking for a weekend getaway to beat the autumn blues. Here you’ll find 10 secret spots for you to explore and uncover in Germany for a successful weekend.
10. Picturesque Saarschleife
The Saarland is often left forgotten as a travel destination by many tourists but that’s their loss because the nature in Saarland is absolutely one of a kind especially the Saarschleife. The Saarschleife is a particularly curved part of the Saar located in the middle of a beautiful mountainous landscape. You can admire it from a 42-meter high observation tower which is reachable via a treetop path that leads you 800-meter through dense forests. Once you have reached the top, you can look out to the horizon and marvel at the bright colours of the autumnal beech, oak and Douglas fir trees. Here your autumn destination 2020 will be magical, straight out of a fairy tale.
If you would like to spend the night here, there is a unique accommodation for you – the CloefHänger. That’s if your not scared of heights, the sleeping place is found between the trees at a height of two meters directly at the edge of the Saarsteilhänge.
9. Stormy Schleswig-Holstein North Sea Coast
If you know the Mecklenburg Baltic Sea coast then you probably also know the Schleswig-Holstein North Sea coast, but here‘s what we have to say; there’s more to explore, you haven’t seen everything yet! Schleswig-Holstein during the autumn will put you in a cosy and homey mood. On the North Sea coast, you will see that a lot of tea is being drunk and especially when it starts getting cold and dark you will definitely be craving for a warm cup of tea.
On the small islands of the North Sea, like Amrum or Pellworm, you can comfortably watch the thunderous weather from inside in rustic vacation homes or of course sit on the beach and feel one with nature. If your feeling like you need a little more action in your life then you should spend a weekend on Sylt or St. Peter-Ording, as it’s more lively since most people spend their vacations there.
8. Quiet Mecklenburg Baltic Sea Coast
The Mecklenburg Baltic Sea coast has been no secret, many travelers flock to the beaches during the summers. Because of the large number of travelers in the summer we recommend you add this to your next autumn destination travel list, especially in the year 2020. Of course, there are not only popular places like Warnemünde or the Isle of Rügen but also smaller places that promise just as much charisma and activity. For example, the Vorpommersche Boddenlandschaft with the Darß. The cool thing about it is that you have the Baltic Sea on one side of the peninsula and the Boddenlandschaft on the other side, an accumulation of lakes that originate from the Baltic Sea.
We also recommend the region around Wismar, especially Boltenhagen has a wellness resort which is beautiful. You will get to know the Baltic Sea coast in a completely new light on your weekend getaway this autumn!
7. Unique Eifel
The region around the Eifel can be found in North Rhine-Westphalia, a beautiful alternative to the well-known cities of the federal state. The scenic view shows you the history of Germany, like the High Fagnes. The High Fagnes is one of the last high moors in Europe and you can directly walk through it on the wooden paths available. The crater lake of the Eifel is also a must-see when you are here. Fun fact; the Windsborn crater lake was formed by an explosion 80,000 years ago and ever since rainwater has been accumulating there till this very day. Feel free to walk along the shore and take in a breath of fresh air. The crater lake is also a biosphere reserve which is why fishing and swimming is no longer allowed. So, you won’t miss anything if you decide to come here during the autumn.
6. Stone age Swabian Danube Valley
The Swabian Danube Valley is located on the north-western border of Bavaria with Baden-Württemberg. The Danube Valley is a true secret destination, here you will mainly find regional travellers! The Dillinger Land is one of the regions in the Danube Valley. There are hundreds of lakes and beautiful landscapes for you to visit, which are simply breathtaking even in the autumn. If you prefer flat hiking trails to mountains, you should walk through the DonAUwald hiking trail. This hiking trail has a length of 59km with only a 68-meter difference in altitude!
In the Heidenheim Brenz region which is also part of the Swabian Danube Valley, you can explore the rich geological heritage that dates back to the Stone Age. You can also find the UNESCO Global Geopark Swabian Alb here, where you can admire the primaeval sea, meteor craters and caves.
5. Culinary Ahr valley
Autumn is the time of the year when the leaves of the vines turn into an incredible number of colours, go out and take a hike or cycle through Ahr Valley to witness the change of seasons. Before the gates of Bonn, lies the picturesque Ahr valley. Here you can enjoy the pure joie de vivre that is normally found in the wine regions of Germany. There are a variety of activities that will for sure make your weekend getaway a small adventure.
Normally there are a number of wine festivals being held here during the autumns, unfortunately, the circumstances are a bit different this year. Don’t fret! To make up for the loss of festivals this autumn 2020, they have opened the Ahr valley vineyards where you get the opportunity to taste the wonderful wine grapes. If you don’t drink wine, don’t worry the area is still great for hiking as the famous red wine hiking trail is located here.
4. Mediterranean Southern wine route
We hope you’re excited for this one because this is for all you wine lovers! The Southern Wine Route is located in Rhineland-Palatinate and is a must for your next autumn destination in 2020. How else would you beat the autumn blues without some wine? It’s a great alternative for you and your Italian travel buddy. The wine route comes to life during the autumn season when the chestnuts start to blossom. If you want to immerse yourself in nature, then we truly recommend you go trekking. Camping Is often allowed in several places in the region, but please pay attention to the signs and prohibitions! Or, if you prefer having a roof over your head, there are numerous huts and hotels available for you to stay.
TIP: If it gets cold and rainy, there’s a wellness hotel along the Southern Wine Route which is a great alternative to outdoor activities.
3. Historic Black Forest national park
Located in Baden-Württemberg, the Black Forest National Park has lots to offer, not only in the summers but also makes for a nice autumn 2020 destination. Not only does the area offer outdoor activities, but also surrounding cities you must see over the weekend! For example, Freiburg in Breisgau is the sunniest city in Germany. The best way to explore the city is to stay overnight and explore the picturesque scenery of nature, perfect for those wanting to hike or climb. Overall the area itself has lots to offer with great connections to other countries. The Gerber- and Fischerau, for example, will transport you to Venice as the picturesque cottages on the shore reflect on the clear water where you can take a nice relaxing stroll. Or, you can also make a detour and say hello to our French neighbours in Strasbourg or Colmar.
2. Action-packed Saxon Switzerland National Park
Most popular amongst hikers and nature lovers is the Saxon Switzerland national park located in the east of Saxony, partly over the Czech border. Here you can see huge rock formations which may remind you of the northwestern national park seen in the USA. You definitely don’t have to drive far to enjoy the vastness here in Germany. The area surrounding it will for sure please many nature enthusiasts. The vegetation around is not to be interfered with and supports natural growth and decay. There’s also a variety of activities to do from hiking, climbing, to cycling. What’s especially popular amongst the visitors are the Bastei view, the Königstein Fortress, and the Schrammsteine. Do you know what else is interesting? Prague is only 90 minutes away! So, grab your Prague travel partner and explore the city together on a weekend in autumn 2020.
1. Fairy tale Harz
Located in-between lower Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt you’ll find the lovely Harz. Till this very day is still a secret destination, as many travellers often find themselves wanting to explore the ore mountains instead. If you’re one of these people, then you are in for a surprise to what the Harz mountains have in store for you, especially for outdoor lovers. A weekend in the Harz mountains should consist of an even balance of exploring the city and nature. Surrounding the Harz mountains, you can find yourself in one of the many charming cities that will date you back to centuries. An example of a few of the surrounding cities is Wernigerode, Stolberg and, Bad Harzburg. The possibilities are limitless, you can book accommodation right on the spot and start exploring the surroundings right away.
Or, maybe you fancy exploring the mountains? You can rent a mountain bike! Wanting to go hiking in one of the hundred trails that are offered? Grab your hiking sticks and let’s go. You might be thinking that there’s not much to do in the autumn compared to the summer, but we believe that during the autumn seasons is when the Harz mountains truly wake up showcasing its charm and beauty.
No matter which destination you decide to choose for your next autumn 2020 destination it will be beautiful! It’s best to find out in advance how you can be a perfect TripMate to make your adventure with your new Travel Buddies unique.
Here you can find even more inspiration for your next trip:
- 6 Best Autumn Destinations in Europe
- The Coolest Surf Spots in Germany
- Exciting Places in Germany Where You Can Travel to Now
- Hiking in Germany – The Most Beautiful Regions and Routes
- 5 Tips for Short Trips
