Germany has long winters that stretch from December to March. Before winters, however, we see how majestic exactly Fall is in this part of the world. Much like on campus, fall in Germany means the smell of grounded leaves mixed with an aura of cool breezes. Hot coffees and fires become a part of ones lifestyle.
Jacobs University - fortunately - is a green campus with tall trees sprouted cleanly by every pathway there is. Similarly, the days are generally sunny in Germany, making the bright yellows, oranges, and reds of the changing leaves a perfect fit. It's a season I've only experienced a few times as someone who hails from a hotter region of the planet, but it's fast become my favorite.
Aside from the colors, fall is evident in the food, festivals, and activities that are best enjoyed during the autumn months. If you appreciate autumn as much as I do, and you'll be spending some of it in Germany, here are some of the greatest ways to spend it: Though great autumn weather and foliage are impossible to anticipate, depending on the year, the leaves are usually at their peak colors around the middle to end of November. Though lower temperatures and rain are possible, particularly in the south, there is usually always a week or two of excellent weather.
It should come as no surprise that most international students, including myself, prefer to travel during this time of year because there are no more assignments to finish and you're almost done studying for the approaching exams.
The following are some of my favorite places to visit in Germany during the autumn:
Hohenzollern
At any time of year, this castle is enchanting. I should know because I've seen it in the winter, summer, and fall. However, seeing the castle with the changing leaves and taking the walk to it only adds to the magic. You may either enter the castle or take a short climb to a vantage point across the street, which is my personal favorite approach. It can be done in as little as 20 minutes or as a longer panoramic stroll.
Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen
To keep it in the family, there is a second Hohenzollern castle, which is less well-known but no less majestic and opulent. The Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen Castle is the largest I've ever seen, located high atop a rocky hill and surrounded by water and the town. Inside, tours are given, and there are various vantage points from which to take shots, and it is absolutely magnificent with golden leaves all around it!
Burg Gamburg
Another lovely treasure in Baden-Württemberg is a privately owned castle that is still inhabited by the family. They lead the excursions, which take you through the renovated apartments and to one of Europe's oldest non-secular paintings, which dates back over 800 years. They're also famed for their excellent cake, which I ate while watching the sunset with lovely orange leaves fluttering down on me — a very magical evening. The castle also has 21 friendly spirits that provide ghost tours in the evenings in the autumn.
BY MUHAMMAD SHAHZAIB TAHIR AWAN (PAKISTAN) | CLASS OF 2022
