Indian summer: Autumn is at its most beautiful in these regions of Europe
Autumn arrives and gives nature a vibrant coat of paint. A deep blue sky, colorful leaves and mild temperatures bring the "Indian summer" to Europe. Forests are now particularly enchanting and invite you to go hiking. Falstaff TRAVEL presents the most beautiful routes.
Summer is over, the days are getting cooler and the forests are glowing in bright colors. So it's time to get out your hiking boots! A top-class experience awaits hiking fans at these locations in Europe.
Bavarian Forest (Germany)
There are beautiful and unusual woodland areas nearby. The Bavarian Forest is a unique experience, because in Germany's first national park, nature shows itself from its most pristine side. Hardly anywhere else in Germany can you find so much greenery and color. Over 1,000 kilometers of long-distance hiking trails lead past rushing streams, deep gorges and around 70 peaks.
Here you will find almost limitless nature, which distracts you from the stressful everyday life in the big city and transports you to a mystical haven of peace. Whether on challenging summit tours or leisurely walks for the whole family - impressive views are guaranteed here.
Julian Alps (Slovenia)
The Julian Alps are an absolute insider tip for hiking fans. The picturesque mountain scenery is particularly impressive in the fall. The Slovenians themselves have long known that their country offers great outdoor opportunities and have also prepared their routes ideally for tourists; more than 10,000 signposted trails of all levels of difficulty invite even beginners to go hiking. From wine-bearing hills to the low mountain range with picturesque villages, forests and waters, to the Alpine world and the mighty two-thousand-metre peaks; the Julian Alps are ideal for a hiking trip lasting several days.
Hikers climb the highest mountains in the Julian Alps surrounded by green landscapes and bright blue lakes. At an altitude of over 2,800 meters, visitors with a head for heights can look out over the entire region on the Triglav. And if you need a break, you are sure to find what you are looking for in the numerous mountain huts and hiking hotels along the trails.
Rhodope Mountains (Bulgaria)
From September onwards, Bulgaria's forests are a riot of color. From green to yellow and red, the foliage on the mountain slopes of the Rhodopes creates an enchanting picture. The Rhodope Mountains are the largest mountains in Bulgaria and have one of the most beautiful autumn panoramas in the country. In this sparsely populated area, travelers discover wild nature: vast meadows, breathtaking cliffs and beautiful rivers are not only ideal photo hotspots, but also the perfect places to find peace and quiet.
Due to the varied terrain, there are autumn hikes of all levels of difficulty in the Rhodopes. But beware: if you want to hike here, you should be well prepared, as only the most popular trails are signposted. A hiking map can help you find your way off these paths, but it is ideal if you memorize the routes well in advance at home.
Casentino (Italy)
Tuscany only in summer? Wrong thinking. Because Italy also offers magical fall scenarios. Casentino is characterized by high mountains and forests and boasts unspoilt landscapes and an extensive nature reserve.
Casentino is the perfect place for walkers and hikers, with a variety of well-maintained paths leading past idyllic castles and churches. There are also a number of sightseeing highlights in the surrounding area that should not be missed. For example, the Cathedral of San Donato in Bibbiena. If you're feeling sporty, you can also climb one of the highest mountains in the region, Monte Falterona. From the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views as far as the foothills of Florence.
Scottish Highlands (Scotland)
The Scottish landscape is world-famous for its green meadows and vast fields. But it is also an absolute highlight in the fall. Mighty mountains, forest and coastal paths alternate with charming villages and show that Scotland has a lot to offer hikers.
The Scottish Highlands boast numerous hiking trails that offer something for every level of difficulty. The West Highland Way along Loch Lomond is particularly beautiful. Located around 1.5 hours north of Glasgow, a unique fall spectacle awaits you here.
Carpathians (Romania)
Anyone who has always wanted to get to know Romania's nature should definitely take a trip to the Carpathians. This is because unique slate walls and diverse fauna await you here in the largest forest area in Europe. So don't be surprised if you come across the odd wild animal - after all, the Carpathians are home to brown bears, wolves and lynx.
The Carpathians are currently still an insider tip for hikers. Accordingly, the area has few visitors. This makes it all the more beautiful for hikers to walk through untouched areas and natural landscapes. The dense forests have well-maintained hiking trails, which are the best way to enjoy the beautiful landscape. The heart of the Southern Carpathians is the Piatra-Craiului Mountains, which meander through the region like a fairytale forest.