Autumn joys: 11 unforgettable trips around Cologne!

Autumn joys: 11 unforgettable trips around Cologne!

In autumn, many Cologne residents and visitors to the city go outside to enjoy relaxation close to nature. With the bright colors of the leaves and the mild air, numerous destinations around Cologne invite you to take day trips and weekend tours. October is the perfect time to explore your surroundings and breathe in the fresh autumn air. The Cologne City Gazette has compiled eleven of the most beautiful excursion destinations in the region.

One of the first recommendations is thisWahner Heath. This species-rich nature reserve in North Rhine-Westphalia delights with mystical landscapes and ten hiking trails. Here you can lose yourself in the morning light and unwind. There is a place to stop for a break in the “Der Heidekönig” inn, ideal for a short break.

Hikes and natural beauty

TheSophienhöhe near Jülichis another highlight. This recultivated waste dump not only offers a habitat for semi-wild wild horses, but also great hiking trails through the mixed forest with a wonderful view of the Rureifel. The best time to visit is autumn, when the landscape is enchanted by the blaze of colors.

This is a real pleasure goalAhrtalwhere the famous red wine hiking trail inspires. This 36 kilometer long route leads through the vineyards of the Ahr Valley and, especially in autumn, the hike is an experience in itself. Again Cologne with pleasure According to reports, you can reach the region from Cologne in about an hour, where you can enjoy hearty meals with a good glass of wine at various stations such as the Michaelishof in Mayschuss. The red wine hiking trail is the main attraction for wine lovers.

If you are looking for spectacular views, you shouldDrachenfelsVisit in the Siebengebirge. The historic rack railway takes visitors comfortably to the viewing platform, from where the Rhine Valley can be admired in all its splendor. This is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations, especially in the mild autumn light.

Family trips and culinary experiences

This is ideal for familiesFairytale forestin the Bergisches Land, where both children and adults get their money's worth. The proximity toAltenberg Cathedralensures that those interested in culture also get their money's worth. He'll be happy tooStammheim Castle Park, a quiet retreat on the Rhine with breathtaking sculpture exhibitions.

It is a special experience for the whole familyGertrudenhof adventure farm. The traditional pumpkin market takes place here until November 9th, offering a real pumpkin paradise and lots of activities for children. Another highlight is thisEifel view “Mariawald Abbey”, where you can try the monastery liqueur during a visit.

A trip into nature can be important not only for the body, but also for the soul. This is also evident in theDünnwald Wildlife Park, which is a popular spot for children and families with its tree path and the opportunity to spot bison.

The region has a lot to offer in autumn, and the well-maintained paths are another highlight for hiking enthusiasts. The ADAC highlights the numerous hiking trails in North Rhine-Westphalia that go wild in autumn, regardless of whether you want to explore the Ruhr area, the Münsterland or the Eifel. This also includes the popular routes in the Bergisches Land, where there are numerous hiking parking spaces available.

The colorful leaves, the fresh air and the opportunity to taste delicious regional food and wine make trips in and around Cologne an unforgettable experience during these months. So, pack your hiking boots and let’s go!