October in most of Europe means grey skies and rain. Not in Switzerland. Here the forests catch fire with gold and red, the peaks sparkle in the sunlight and the air feels so crisp it gives you energy. October is really the month to get outside, and we are going to tell you exactly where to go.
Autumn hikes that leave you speechless
Swiss nature is showing off right now. Colours explode everywhere you look, from deep orange to fiery red. Perfect timing for the hike you have been dreaming about for months.
Our October hotspots
- Engadin: the larch forests turn such a bright orange you might wonder if someone painted them.
- Lauterbrunnen Valley: picture waterfalls streaming down between golden-yellow forests.
- Valle Maggia: autumn and Mediterranean vibes in one package.
Tip from team takeoff: make time to stop at a mountain hut. Hot chocolate with that kind of view? Pure joy.
Cheese lovers: Lucerne is calling
The Lucerne Cheese Festival takes place every October at Kapellplatz, 6004 Luzern, and the best part? Entry is completely free.
You can lose yourself among all the Swiss cheeses here: from small local farm productions to household names like Emmentaler and Sbrinz. There is plenty of entertainment and extras around the festival too. Our advice: go there and eat your way through the selection.
Ticino turns into one big chestnut festival
Throughout October everything in Ticino revolves around the Castagnate: chestnut festivals you really have to experience. In Ascona and Lugano chestnuts are roasted over open fires and served with local wine and cheese. The atmosphere? Pure Switzerland and irresistibly warm.
Why you should go
- Authentic Ticino flavours you will not find anywhere else.
- Swiss traditions the way they are meant to be: warm and accessible.
- Easy to combine with a walk along Lake Maggiore.
Join the takeoff community
Ready for adventure? October does not wait, and neither does Switzerland. Grab your hiking boots, charge your camera and come enjoy everything this golden month has to offer.
Want to be part of it? Or curious about what we run the rest of the year? In our community you share tips, make plans and always find someone to head out on an adventure with. From spontaneous hikes to big weekends away: there is always something happening with takeoff.
