Where to go in autumn?

With its excellent water quality and ideal wind conditions, Lake Achensee is also called the "Tyrolean Sea". It is one of the windiest lakes in Austria and offers the best conditions for watersports enthusiasts, even in autumn. Paddle fans can enjoy the magnificent view of the surrounding mountain landscapes, cliffs and spruce forests on a quiet canoe tour from Maurach to Pertisau. And if you like more action on the water, with the right equipment you can still go kite surfing or windsurfing on Lake Achensee under the best conditions in a golden October.  

The sailing and diving season here also lasts through the end of October. The reason for the lake's popularity among sailors is the above-average wind conditions and the thermals that form in normal good weather. Especially in autumn, Lake Achensee is often blessed with super “Foehn” conditions, which usually bring strong southerly winds. Those who like to spend their holiday below the water's surface will also get their money's worth here. With a diving permit and the right equipment for cold water, the lake offers two dive spots.

The Danish North Sea coast is considered the windiest region in Europe and has a lot to offer, especially for board sports enthusiasts. The Thy coastline between Agger and Hanstholm is even known among surfers as "Cold Hawaii" because the wind conditions are very similar. But not only advanced surfers can spend a great holiday in Jutland. Many beaches have predominantly surfable waves that aren’t too high and therefore more beginner-friendly. In addition, the bottom is mostly sandy, making things easier for beginners. Those who prefer to try kitesurfing will also find plenty of standing areas. 

Even non-surfers won’t have to sit around on dry land here. Almost all the surf schools and camps offer courses and equipment rentals for SUP boards, canoes and catamarans. Since the water temperatures can be very low, especially in autumn, everyone who ventures into the cool water should wear a suitable wetsuit, which can be obtained at the local rental shops. Another plus: at this time of year, you can rent relatively inexpensive holiday homes for the whole family, which are located directly by the fjord or the dunes - fireplace and sauna included. A cosy way to finish off the active outdoor season together. 

In the province of Alicante on the Spanish mainland lies the 200-kilometre Costa Blanca coastline. With 200 days of sunshine annually, this is a good place to extend your summer for a few days in October. In addition to wide sandy beaches, there are also smaller secluded bays that will bring joy to the heart of any watersports enthusiast. On the beaches of Santa Pola, not only wind and kite surfers get their money's worth, but also surfers and sailors. Various local watersports centres offer a wide variety of courses and rentals for kids, beginners and advanced customers.  

The long sandy beach stretches from Valencia to the small town of Denia, where a coarser, rocky coastal region begins. In addition to fascinating caves and grottos, which boast dreamy light conditions underwater, a unique nature reserve also invites you to go diving. A free permit is required for this, as only a maximum of 15 divers are allowed there each day. Permits can be obtained through the local dive schools, which also offer guided dives for divers from beginners to advanced.  

From the north to the south, in October you can enjoy watersports to the fullest one more time. 

Between the metropolis of Split and the well-known resort of Makarska lies the Dalmatian town of Omiš. In addition to the most beautiful sandy beaches in Croatia and a welcoming city, Omiš stands out especially for its diverse watersports offer. In particular surfing beginners can easily learn the basics here. Because of numerous shallow water spots in combination with standing area, the coast is ideal for first surfing attempts. 

But there is more: Croatia has a total of four sailing areas and is the most popular sailing area in the Mediterranean Sea. Istria, Kvarner, North and South Dalmatia, there is the right trip for every sailing fan.

Fishing, surfing, sailing and much more: The Netherlands leave almost no watersport wish unfulfilled and make sailing a great experience. Places like Hoorn, Friesland or the IJsselmeer are especially popular destinations for sailing fans. The latter is known for its regular sailing regattas. But the IJsselmeer offers even more: from here you can sail all the way to Denmark and explore the Wadden Sea World Heritage Site along the way. A real adventure and must-do for all sailing fans.  

From the north to the south, in October you can enjoy watersports to the fullest one more time.