Autumn in the Saas Valley is the time of year when nature reveals its most colourful side. When the leaves on the trees transform into brilliant gold and warm orange tones, the landscape becomes an impressive panorama that simply has to be experienced in person. The clear, fresh mountain air and the stillness of the surroundings give rise to an atmosphere that makes visitors slow down and gives them the opportunity to leave everyday life behind them. Particularly now, when the heat of summer is over but the cold of winter is yet to come, the mild autumn climate provides the ideal opportunity to enjoy the mountains in all their glory.

One particular highlight for me in autumn is the vast larch and Swiss stone pine forests that surround the valley. The varied needles, ranging in colour from gold to orange, make for an impressive backdrop along with the snow-covered mountain tops in the background. This autumnal landscape invites us all to take some time for ourselves and consciously immerse ourselves in nature. For me, this isn’t about walking long distances or scaling a summit, but instead I enjoy simply wandering through the woods and letting the atmosphere take hold of me. At this time of year in particular, I become aware of the positive impact that nature has on my well-being. The fresh air and stillness help me to switch off and clear my mind. When it’s a bit cooler and there are fewer people out and about, this is where I find the relaxation I need.

Autumn and its special aura of calm motivates me to explore the nature in the Saas Valley even more intensely. The region has numerous hiking paths where you can experience the autumnal landscape in a variety of ways. Whether you go for a relaxed walk along the mountain streams or opt for the more challenging routes at higher altitudes, there’s something to suit everyone. One of my favourite walks is the ‘Almageller Höhenweg‘. One special feature of the Höhenweg is that is takes you through the autumnal high alpine landscape above the tree line, meaning I can enjoy the impressive expanse of the mountain world in its autumnal blaze of colour. The view of the surrounding peaks and valleys are rather special and I am acutely aware of how restorative this remote, untouched landscape can be. Without dense forests, but with the calm and clarity of the High Alps, this environment helps me to leave my everyday life behind and recharge my batteries.

Mountain bikers can enjoy a wide range of trails in the Saas Valley in autumn, which offer the ideal conditions for exploratory tours of the autumn landscape. Even though some of the well-known highlights such as the Mattmark Biketrail or the Biketrails around Kreuzboden and Hohsaas are restricted at the moment, there are still lots of routes that lead through the colourful forests and offer spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. For me, the combination of exercising on a bike and the brilliant colours creates unique experiences. In comparison to summer, the trails are much quieter, making riding a lot more of a relaxed affair. The cool weather also ensures that rides are not just challenging but also refreshing – ideal for enjoying autumnal nature to the full.

Autumn is also the best time for trail running and for testing your stamina on the autumnal trails. The crisp temperatures make it a pleasant environment to run in and the less busy paths give you enough space so you can jog through nature undisturbed. For me personally, trail running in autumn is a highlight of the season.

For those who like a bit more of an adrenaline rush, the Saas Valley offers excellent opportunities for Climbing & Mountaineering. Routes such as the well-known via ferrata on the Jegihorn not only offer physical challenges, but also spectacular views of the autumnal landscape and surrounding four-thousand-metre peaks.

Autumn brings a special feeling of tranquillity to the Saas Valley. The hectic summer months are over and a lovely sense of calm descends on the villages and hiking trails before the winter tourist season begins. It’s the perfect time to escape from everyday life and enjoy the restorative power of nature. This is why the golden-coloured trees, crisp mountain air and special atmosphere make autumn the most beautiful season in the Saas Valley.