Autumn arrives quietly and then disappears with a blaze of color. From hiking to see the fall foliage to checking off the bucket list items like Oktoberfest, Onion Markets or Cattle herds (Almabtrieb), there is an exciting line up of events to plan around, crafts to do, and fun to find.

Winter transforms Europe into dreamy snow globes. Glowing Christmas markets, Alpine Ski Valleys, Torchlit walks, and Light festivals that light up the long dark nights. Book earlier then you think to lock in decent prices.

The thaw, the first white asparagus on every village menu, and blossom and tulip fields opening up. I love watching the forests literally wake up. The leaves speak to each other.

The longest light, lake afternoons, and a village fest almost every weekend. Warm nights, open-air concerts, and a party rhythm that makes me feel 18 again. People here know how to enjoy life. Be careful. That is contagious.