SWITZERLAND IN AUTUMN

When nature glows in gold and red

Autumn transforms Switzerland into a unique play of colors golden forests, clear lakes, and cozy villages invite you to explore.
Experience the most beautiful time of the year with Markus Manfredi, photographer, filmmaker, and author of the Magical Switzerland Guide, on Swissaround along scenic hikes through larch forests, mountain lakes, and peaceful valleys. This season is perfect for inspiring adventures and moments of calm in nature.
Each post provides you with all the key details right at the start, impressive images, a map with elevation profile, additional tips in the FAQ section, and the option to leave your own comments. This way, you can experience autumn with Swissaround in all its magic.

Vast floodplain of Tschingelsee in Kiental near Griesalp, with turquoise water channels and autumn mountain forest

Griesalp and Tschingelsee in Autumn through the Wild Kiental

The hike from Griesalp to Tschingelsee reveals the wild side of Kiental in early autumn. The adventure begins with the spectacular PostBus ride along the steep Griesalp road before the trail leads us past turquoise mountain water, through the dramatic Griess Gorge and towards the vast floodplain of Tschingelsee. Surrounded by the first autumn colours, dark mountain forests and striking rock walls, the landscape feels especially impressive at this time of year. Ready to discover one of the most varied autumn hikes in the Bernese Oberland?

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Tree Island in Clear Lake Cresta with a Mountain Backdrop in GraubΓΌnden

Lake Cauma – Il Spir – Lake Cresta: Early Autumn Hike in Flims

When summer slowly fades at Lake Cauma, one of the most beautiful times for this hike begins. The swimming season comes to an end, temperatures turn cooler and a peaceful atmosphere returns to the lake. This is when our route takes us from the turquoise waters of Lake Cauma through the forests of Flims to the spectacular Il Spir viewpoint above the Rhine Gorge, before continuing to the idyllic Lake Cresta. A scenic early autumn hike between two mountain lakes, deep forests and the first colours of the season.

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A panoramic view of Saint Saphorin in Lavaux with vineyards in the foreground and Lake Geneva glowing at sunset.

Lavaux Vineyards in Autumn – Scenic Hike Through Saint-Saphorin on Lake Geneva

The Lavaux region, with more than 800 hectares (1,977 acres) of vineyards, is one of the largest wine-growing areas in Switzerland. Nestled between Lake Geneva and the steep slopes of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the vineyards of Saint-Saphorin shine in golden colors during autumn. What makes this hike truly special is that it leads almost entirely through terraced vineyards – where else can you walk right in the middle of a wine paradise?

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Autumn drone view of Lej Nair with colorful forest and a clear view toward Lake Silvaplana

Lej Nair – 3 Lakes Hike in the Engadin Autumn Magic

Lej Nair is a hidden gem near St. Moritz in the Engadin valley, a scenic mountain lake famous for its autumn reflections and golden larches.
A true hidden gem for autumn lovers. Surrounded by golden larch trees and set within the colorful landscape of GraubΓΌnden, this three-lake hike offers one of the most impressive fall experiences in the Swiss Alps. Perfect for nature photographers and explorers seeking peace and quiet alike.

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Aerial view of Lake Palpuogna with bright turquoise water and an impressive mountain backdrop during summer

Palpuognasee – Scenic Hike from Preda, Albula Valley

Everyone knows the famous Albula Pass in the canton of Grisons. However, not the colored mountain lake located above the train station Preda, which lies at an altitude of over 1900 meters. A beautiful circular hike that is not only beautiful in summer but also worth a top excursion in autumn. Because here you can find larches that turn gold money in autumn.

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Matterhorn in the morning light with reflection in Stellisee near Zermatt, an iconic destination for hiking in Switzerland.

5-Lakes Hike Zermatt – A Dream Trail through Five Alpine Lakes

The 5-Lakes Hike Zermatt is one of the most beautiful summer and autumn hikes, taking you past five lakes where the Matterhorn reflects. Did you know that half of this famous 4,500-meter-high (14,764 feet) peak lies in Italy? With over 400 km (249 miles) of marked hiking trails, Zermatt is a paradise for hikers – and the 5-Lakes Hike should definitely be on your list.

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The Γ„schfall in UnterschΓ€chen with alpine houses in the foreground, photographed by Markus Manfredi | Swissaround.

Monthly Swiss Weather Guide for Travelers

Plan Your Trip with the Ultimate Swiss Weather Guide! Discover How the Climate Changes in Each Season, When to Expect Rain, and How to Prepare. With Real Photos and Videos from Every Month, Get an Authentic Insight into the Weather Conditions. The Perfect Guide for Timing Your Swiss Vacation!

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Golden hiking season in autumn

Get exclusive tips on colorful routes, secret viewpoints, and magical moments in the golden season.

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Official Swissaround logo featuring a hiker, pine trees, and a mountain silhouette

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