Nature turns golden, the leaves rustle beneath our feet and the fresh air fills us with a feeling of new life. Autumn shows itself in all its splendor and makes landscapes particularly fascinating. Reason enough to leave the city behind on days off or at the weekend and discover the idyllic natural gems in and around Berlin. What you can discover nearby is often more impressive than you might imagine: For example, a 700-metre-long treetop path, from whose viewing platform you can enjoy a fantastic far-reaching view as far as Berlin. If you prefer to get closer, you can walk through picturesque forest retreats just 20 km from the city center and hike to the highest elevation in Berlin – with incomparable views included. And if you want to feel like you’re in Venice, the Spreewald in Brandenburg is the place for you. Just a 1.5 to 2-hour drive away, enchanted waterways and charming canals await you – a true autumn fairytale. And it’s also easy to get there by train: you can get there just as quickly with the Deutschlandticket.
Glide on the water like in Venice
A piece of Italy very close to the capital: the picturesque Spreewald is hidden in the south-east of Brandenburg – a fairytale landscape that makes canoeing like in Venice possible. Whether you prefer to be active or relaxed, there’s a suitable way to enjoy nature here. With over 200 water arms and a total of 1,300 kilometers of waterways that run through the region like an enchanted labyrinth, the Spreewald is not called the “German Venice” for nothing. But instead of gondolas and crowds of tourists, peace, nature and pure relaxation await you here.
The most popular activity in the Spreewald in Brandenburg is the traditional boat trip: on the flat barges, which – just like in Venice – are propelled by hand, you glide silently and picturesquely through the canals, past reeds, old wooden bridges and the typical Spreewald houses. Those who prefer to be active can go on a discovery tour in a kayak or paddle boat. When the rays of the autumn sun fall through the trees onto the water, it creates an atmosphere that you won’t soon forget.
Activities on land
There is also plenty for walkers and cyclists to discover on land. Over 700 kilometers of cycling and hiking trails lead you through forests, small villages and along the numerous rivers. A particular highlight is the Gherkin Cycle Path, which takes you through the region’s most famous villages and fields. Of course, it’s worth making a stop or two along the way for a taste of the famous Spreewald gherkins. And especially now in the fall, when the temperatures drop, you don’t have to go back to Berlin for a wellness break – there are wonderful options right on site. In Burg (Spreewald ), several thermal baths and spas with natural brine springs invite you to relax. After a tour through the water labyrinth, a visit to the sauna is the perfect way to round off the day.
In addition to the famous Spreewald gherkins, there is also plenty of culinary delights to discover here: fresh fish dishes, linseed oil with quark and potatoes or regional apple juices. Many inns are located directly on the water – you can hear the gentle lapping of the river while you eat and let your gaze wander over the landscape.
Not to forget: The Spreewald in Brandenburg offers fantastic scenery for photographers. The play of light and reflections on the water create unique motifs – and capturing the morning mist also captures the mystique of this special place.