Beethovenwanderweg Petersberg Ausblick
Tourismus NRW e.V., Beethovenwanderweg Petersberg Ausblick
Holzsteg des großen Torfmoors in Lübbeke
Leo Thomas, Holzsteg des großen Torfmoors in Lübbeke

A declaration of love to bad weather

Tips for rainy days

Admittedly, when it's raining, windy and rather low temperatures, we don't immediately think about going out in the fresh air. And perhaps it takes a bit of effort to go out with a rain jacket, wellies or umbrella. But wet weather has its very own charm and brings with it a special atmosphere: this is a plea for a rainy day at the zoo, a song of praise for a city trip in bad weather and an unconditional recommendation for a hike in a low-pressure area.

Murmeltier im Tierpark Olderdissen in Bielefeld
Johannes Höhn, Tourismus NRW e.V., Murmeltier im Tierpark Olderdissen in Bielefeld

Tip 1

Alone at the zoo

No searching for a parking space, empty paths and a good view of all the animals: this is your chance to have the zoos and animal parks in your NRW to yourself. In contrast to the crowds on fair weather days, there is a relaxed atmosphere here in the rain and everything seems to slow down a little. And if you do need to warm up, you're sure to find a spot in the tropical house.

Drachenfels Castle Ruins in the Siebengebirge Nature Park
Tourismus NRW e.V., Drachenfels Castle Ruins in the Siebengebirge Nature Park

Tip 2

Mysticism in the Siebengebirge

Instead of far-reaching views, there is a view of rising clouds of mist, the landscape has a magical effect and hikers feel very close to the stories surrounding the legendary Drachenfels: the mystical atmosphere of the Siebengebirge is ideal for a bad weather hike. Why not try out the Beethoven hiking trail - you certainly won't start to freeze with the metres in altitude.

Hagemeister
Ralph Sondermann, Tourismus NRW e.V., Hagemeister

Tip 3

Barefoot in the forest

Now barefoot in cold water? Sure, because Kneipp not only strengthens the body's defences, but is also a lot of fun. Stork walk through the treading pool, for example on the Kneipp trail around the Kneipp spa town of Olsberg. Let Gudrun Hagemeister, who is always out and about in the Sauerland forests, inspire you to go on a Kneipp walk - whatever the weather and whatever the season.

Torfmoor
Johannes Höhn, Torfmoor

Tip 4

Out into nature

Do you feel ready for your adventure in nature, want to brave the forces of nature and no weather is too bad for you? Then get out into nature - in the twelve nature parks or the Eifel National Park in your NRW. At the end of the day, you'll be proud to have overcome your inner couch potato - and the cosy, warm sofa will feel even cosier.

Would you like more?

Have a look here!

  • To Page Quick tips for short trips
    Up-to-date and varied

    Quick tips for short trips

    Learn more
  • To Page Bucket List
    Places you must have been

    Bucket List

    Learn more
  • To Page Excursion topic: climate change
    Interactive and informative

    Excursion topic: climate change

    Learn more
New tips every two months

Insider tips & excursion ideas

Newsletter

Fancy some mail? Then subscribe here to our every two months newsletter with information on special travel offers, selected short tips for short trips and other insider tips for travelling in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Click here to register