Autumn vacation in Schleswig-Holstein
When the vacation regions in Schleswig-Holstein turn into a colorful play of colors, it is the perfect time for an unforgettable autumn vacation. On the North Sea and Baltic Sea, stormy walks beckon and in the inland regions, atmospheric autumn markets and culinary delights await. Discover vacation activities in Schleswig-Holstein now!
You can hear the wind blowing through the woods and the falling leaves rustling under your feet. It smells of fresh leaves. The warm rays of sunshine find their way through the treetops and warm your face. You don't avoid the puddles caused by the last short rain shower today, as your wellies protect you from the cool water. Your gaze wanders to the lake that you have discovered at the end of the forest path. You enjoy the peace and quiet and look forward to the hot coffee waiting for you in the cozy café around the corner.
The golden season in the true north
It's autumn in Schleswig-Holstein, whether on land, on the water or in the midst of green forests: It's time for long walks in beautiful nature, typical warm meals and hot drinks and slowing down. In the heart of Schleswig-Holstein, whether inland, in Holstein Switzerland or the Duchy of Lauenburg and Stormarn, you can expect a variety of lakes, cozy farm cafés and cute towns that invite you to stroll around. There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy an autumn break to the full on the coasts of the North Sea and Baltic Sea. Schleswig-Holstein has a lot to offer in the fall, even when the weather's not so good!
September to November
To welcome the cold winds, the towns along the Baltic coast light up in a sea of lights from the end of September to the beginning of November. Experience fire shows, illuminations and torchlight walks.
September to October
Competitions in the wave, freestyle and slalom disciplines take place daily at the Sylt Windsurf World Cup. All against a breathtaking backdrop. Supporting program included!
October
On an area of more than 20 hectares and in eight historic buildings of the Molfsee Open Air Museum, more than 130 actors offer handmade products, culinary delicacies and regional products.
October
The North Sea crab has its own festival in Husum: the Husum Crab Days. Whether on a bread roll or straight from the cutter - this weekend, everything revolves around the popular delicacy on the maritime Husum harbor mile on the North Sea.
September
Europe's largest nature film festival takes place once a year in Eckernförde on the Baltic Sea. International filmmakers and film enthusiasts meet at the GREEN SCREEN Festival to watch spectacular nature films.
September
The cabbage harvest in Europe's largest contiguous cabbage-growing region is celebrated with the Dithmarschen Cabbage Days. The cabbage days are packed with entertainment, games and fun. A classic North German fall festival!
September to April
Trend-setting guest chefs from all over Europe cook varied gourmet cuisine at various events in Schleswig-Holstein. A visit to the SHGF is definitely worthwhile!
November
Experience one of the world's most traditional film festivals in Lübeck. For six days, the latest feature films, documentaries and short films from the north and north-east of Europe enchant guests.
Vacation with a dog in Schleswig-Holstein
When summer ends, the best time for four-legged friends begins: in many places in Schleswig-Holstein, the beaches are freely accessible to dogs in fall and winter - without any restrictions. Perfect for long walks and fresh sea air with your best friend on four paws.
Excursion tips for your fall vacation
Now is the ideal time for long walks on the beach, where you can really let the autumn wind blow through you. Whether on the stormy coasts of the North Sea and Baltic Sea or in the vast inland landscapes - the fresh air is good for you, clears your head and invites you to fly colorful kites in the sky.
Immerse yourself in the world of castles, manor houses and estates - all over the country they tell stories of times gone by. Now in the fall, when avenues turn golden yellow and parks glow in warm light, these places unfold a very special magic. Whether it's the magnificent Glücksburg Castle on the Baltic Sea, the baroque Eutin Castle in Holstein Switzerland or the elegant Ahrensburg Castle near Hamburg - they all invite you to take an autumn walk in a historic setting.
History comes alive at the Molfsee Open-Air Museum near Kiel! An impressive collection of over 60 faithfully reconstructed historical buildings awaits you on around 40 hectares - from thatched farmhouses to old workshops - and is particularly worth a visit in autumn: when the extensive grounds are cloaked in warm colors, the museum is transformed into an atmospheric autumn market. Regional products, traditional handicrafts and lovely details make the excursion an experience for all the senses.
What you can't find in the North Sea and Baltic Sea can be found at the marine center on Fehmarn to marvel at. Whether huge coral gardens or large sharks, you will be overwhelmed by the fascinating habitat in the tropical seas.
When the leaves fall and the air gets crisp, the charming city centers of Schleswig-Holstein's towns invite you to go on a leisurely shopping spree. In the midst of historic old towns, small boutiques, cafés and regional stores, autumn can be enjoyed to the full - whether with a hot coffee, regional arts and crafts or the first harbingers of winter fashion.
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of merchants in the Middle Ages and experience the rise and fall of the former trading power. In the Hanseatic Museum European history comes to life.
In the fall, numerous fruit farms such as the Apfelschiff in Hollingstedt or the Schneekloth fruit farm on the Baltic Sea invite you to harvest. Fresh apples, pears and plums can be picked directly from the tree or bought in the farm store. Perfect for an autumnal family outing
In the nature reserve Geltinger Birk on the Baltic Sea, four hiking trails lead through autumn-colored forests, salt marshes and dunes. With a bit of luck, you may come across wild Konik horses living in the wild - a special nature experience in the clear autumn air.
A trip to the Friedrichskoog seal sanctuary on Schleswig-Holstein's North Sea coast is a real experience, even in autumn: visitors can observe seals and gray seals up close in the modern facility and learn exciting facts about the protection of marine mammals. Particularly popular are the daily feedings where you can see the animals in action - ideal for young and old alike, even in the North German bad weather.
In the Nature park Lauenburgische Seen, the "Indian Summer" is reflected in golden forests and clear lakes. Perfect for an autumnal cycle tour - e.g. on the Hamburg-Rügen cycle path or along the Old Salt Route (Alte Salzstraße) through the tranquil, colorful nature. But even away from this vacation region, Schleswig-Holstein's long-distance cycle paths invite you to make autumnal discoveries on two wheels.
