The Black Forest (Schwarzwald) is a region of dark wooded hills in southwestern Germany, close to France and Switzerland. Fairy-tale villages, waterfalls and lakes hide among its pine forests. Moreover, it is the home of cuckoo clocks and the famous Black Forest cake. As a result, the Black Forest is perfect for nature lovers and food lovers alike.
This guide covers the best towns, nature, traditions and practical tips.
Nature in the Black Forest
The highest peak, the Feldberg, rises to 1,493 metres. On clear days, you can even see the Alps. In addition, thousands of kilometres of trails cross the region. For example, the Westweg runs about 285 km from Pforzheim to Basel. Also, the Black Forest National Park protects wild mountain forests.
The Black Forest High Road is a scenic drive along the northern ridges. Meanwhile, Lake Titisee and Lake Schluchsee are perfect for swimming and boating in summer.
Charming Towns and Villages
Triberg
Triberg is famous for its waterfalls, among the highest in Germany. A path climbs beside the cascades through the forest. Also, the town is a centre of cuckoo clock making. In fact, two nearby places both claim the world’s largest cuckoo clock.
Freiburg
Freiburg is the lively capital of the region. Its old town has a red sandstone cathedral and small water channels called Bächle along the streets. Because it is a student city, the atmosphere is young and relaxed.
Baden-Baden
Baden-Baden is an elegant spa town. In fact, it is part of the UNESCO “Great Spa Towns of Europe”. So, relax in the historic Friedrichsbad or the modern Caracalla Spa. Then, stroll along the Lichtentaler Allee park.
Gengenbach and Gutach
Gengenbach has a perfect medieval centre with half-timbered houses. Meanwhile, the open-air museum at Gutach shows traditional farmhouses. There, you may also see the famous Bollenhut, a hat with big red pompoms.
Black Forest Cuisine
The region is known for hearty food. For example, try smoked Black Forest ham and Flammkuchen, a thin tart with cream and bacon. Above all, taste a real Black Forest cake, made with chocolate, cherries, cream and cherry brandy. In addition, local wines from the Baden region are excellent.
Cuckoo Clocks and Traditions
Clockmakers have worked here since the 18th century. So, many workshops welcome visitors. Also, villages hold traditional festivals and Christmas markets. In late winter, colourful carnival parades, called Fasnet, fill the streets with masks.
Best Time to Visit the Black Forest
May to September is ideal for hiking and lakes. In contrast, autumn brings golden forests and wine festivals. Then, in winter, you can ski, snowshoe and visit Christmas markets.
Tips for Visiting the Black Forest
- Use your guest card: Many hotels offer a card with free local buses and trains.
- Rent a car for remote villages: However, trains reach many main towns.
- Book farm stays: They offer a cosy taste of local life.
- Visit Europa-Park: Families will love Germany’s largest theme park, in Rust.
How to Get to the Black Forest
The nearest airports are Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg, Stuttgart and Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden. Also, fast trains reach Freiburg and Baden-Baden from Frankfurt. For more ideas, see the official Black Forest tourism website.
A Destination for All Seasons
The Black Forest combines deep woods, charming towns and rich traditions. Afterwards, explore Heidelberg or the Romantic Rhine. Discover all our Germany travel guides.
