Introduction to September Walking Holidays
September is a wonderful time of year to enjoy a walking holiday! With the summer temperatures petering, peak season out of the way (with fewer tourists) and autumn approaching, you can comfortably enjoy some of the world’s best hiking trails. Challenging hikes aren’t as daunting with cooler weather and less competition on the trails, or of course you can opt for gentle walks and soak up the panoramic views.
Read on to discover our best recommendations for a September walking holiday.
Popular Destinations for September Walking Tours
Switzerland: Highlights of Bernese Oberland
Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, the Bernese Oberland boasts some of the region's most renowned and towering peaks, including the Jungfrau (4,158m), the Mönch (4,107m), and the Eiger (3,967m).
This stunning route offers the chance to explore well-trodden paths connecting classic alpine villages, all while surrounded by - and often walking beneath - the dramatic presence of these iconic summits. With its breathtaking mountain vistas, picturesque villages, verdant valleys, and pristine lakes, the Bernese Oberland stands out as one of Europe’s premier destinations.
Why Visit in September?
September is an ideal time to visit the Bernese Oberland, offering perfect walking weather, fewer crowds than peak summer months and walking trails and transport links that remain open.
Austria, Slovenia & Italy: Alpe Adria Tri-Country Trek
Italy is a popular destination for walking holidays, with its scenic trails, charming villages, and delicious food. But why not combine it with two of its beautiful neighbours? This cross-border trip follows the iconic Alpe Adria route in Austria, Slovenia and Italy for a Central Europe walking fiesta.
Highlights include winding along wooded paths, through serene valleys, and past charming alpine hamlets, traversing mountain passes, discovering the rural beauty of Carinthia, and taking in sweeping vistas from the summit of Monte Lussari. Combining adventure, diverse cultures, and stunning natural surroundings, this week-long expedition offers a truly immersive way to experience the essence of three Alpine countries in one continuous trek.
Why Visit in September?
September offers ideal hiking weather, with mild days and clear skies for stunning alpine views. Forests begin to turn golden with early autumn colours in mid-September, and the trails are quieter after the summer rush. Wild berries and mushrooms add a seasonal touch along the way.
Experience Slovenia’s culture and traditions in September through two unique events:
Dating back to the 1950s, the Cow's Ball in Lake Bohinj celebrates the end of the summer grazing season, as shepherds and cows descend from the mountain pastures. Festivities include traditional music, folk dancing and opportunities to sample local cuisine, as decorated cattle parade past.
Also held in Bohinj, the Bohinj Hiking Festival - also known as the 'Days of Hiking' - celebrates the region’s extensive hiking network, earning it a reputation as one of the world’s premier trekking destinations. The festival features guided walks, friendly competitions, live music, exhibitions, and a variety of lectures and workshops dedicated to all things hiking.
Germany: Along the Harz Witches Trail
As you journey on foot through the Harz Mountains and National Park, indulge yourself in the nature and scenery along the famous Harz Witches trail. Rich in myths and age-old tales, this enchanting region is renowned for its associations with folklore, fairy tales, and witches. In his play, Goethe famously referenced the witches of the Harz Mountains, where the ageing scholar Faust makes a pact with the Devil.
In addition to this legend, the Harz has earned a reputation as one of Germany’s premier hiking destinations and a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts. On this walking tour, you ascend Brocken, the highest summit in the Harz range, follow an ancient trade route and pass thundering waterfalls. Warm, welcoming, and full of character, the local communities add to the region's charm, making your experience all the more engaging and memorable.
Why Visit in September?
September is a perfect time to enjoy evergreen and coniferous forests, rock canyons, towering cliffs and medieval half-timbered villages.
Coastal Treks of Montenegro
Discover the natural beauty of Montenegro’s stunning coastline on a self-guided hiking adventure. Traverse along breathtaking coastal paths, rugged mountain trails, and the serene shores of Lake Skadar, all offering panoramic views that will leave you in awe.
Summit Mount Vrmac, uncover the ancient Vrmac and Vranovo Brdo fortresses and follow historic routes such as the famous ‘Ladder of Kotor.’ This walking tour is ideal for avid hikers and nature lovers.
Why Visit in September?
Perfect late summer conditions to enjoy hikes along coastal paths that provide views of the Adriatic, historic routes that meander through olive orchards, and challenging mountain trails that offer sweeping vistas of the sea.
Other Walking Tour Options in September
If you're looking to venture farther or travel with a group, we offer some incredible options departing in September, including destinations across Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
African walking destinations in September:
Latin America walking destinations in September:
Asia walking destinations in September:
Canada walking routes in September:
Planning Your September Walking Holiday
To ensure there’s availability for your chosen destination, we always recommend planning your holiday early. Not only can you often secure cheaper flight prices, but it gives you peace of mind that there'll be availability in accommodation.
Once you’ve booked your holiday, the next item on your holiday to-do list is packing! You’ll need all the essential items, including sturdy walking boots and layers. If you’ve booked far enough in advance, you have time to wear in your walking shoes, and you could even take advantage of seasonal sales. After summer, retailers start promoting winter gear - so this is the perfect time to purchase any hiking shorts and vests as they become discounted, and vice versa for the end of the winter season!
Depending on the walking grade of your holiday, we recommend doing some practice hikes and getting your fitness up. We advise that you're well-prepared for the level of walking you'll be undertaking to avoid any unwanted surprises.
Before you travel, download any walking route applications, route notes and GPX files to your mobile phone. You may also want to consider downloading Google Maps for the area you're visiting to your mobile for offline use, and checking if you can use your home network abroad or if you need to purchase an extra plan. eSims are becoming more common, so check your phone compatibility before you go - to avoid any last minute panic at the airport.
Take a look at our How to Prepare for a Hike blog or familiarise yourself with our FAQs.
Browse all our walking holidays in September and in autumn, or for further advice and to discuss any of the itineraries mentioned above, contact our team.
