The Black Forest, Germany: Top 10 Things To Do
Germany is a great option for an overseas break. And if you need a natural escape, the Black Forest (der Schwarzwald) is perfect.
Where is the Black Forest located?
Located in southwest Germany, in the state of Baden-Württemberg, the Black Forest is bounded by the Rhine Valley to the west and south and close to the borders with France and Switzerland.
What is the Black Forest famous for?
Nature and Landscape
The fairytale landscape of the Black Forest region is adored for its dense evergreen forests, its verdant meadows and its labyrinthine network of hiking trails, whilst the Black Forest’s Unesco Biosphere Reserve status protects 632-sq-km.
Tradition
Aside from the landscape, the Black Forest is also known for its long tradition of cuckoo clock making, half-timbered houses and for being the home of the Grimm Brothers’ fairy tales, and of course, the famous (and delicious) Black Forest cherry cake!
Unwind in one of Europe's most enchanting regions and discover things to do in the Black Forest, with our useful Black Forest travel guide…
1. The Black Forest National Park
The Black Forest National Park is a stunning natural oasis in the middle of the larger ‘Schwarzwald’.
Popular amongst hikers and mountain bikers, this reserve is home to a huge array of wildlife and plants.
2. Titisee
As the largest natural lake in the Black Forest, Titisee is one of the area's biggest draws.
Take a lake cruise, or hike the many trails in the area.
Expect sumptuous views at every turn.
Hire a rowing boat or indulge in one of the more adrenaline-packed water sports on offer.
3. Experience real Black Forest cake
Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) is simply a must while in the region, available in all good bakeries (and most of them are good!).
On the off-chance you don't know what to expect, this delightful gâteaux consists of layers of chocolate cake and whipped cream, with a dash of Kirsch (cherry spirit) and tart Morello cherries.
Some believe that the name of this sweet delight is derived from the specialty liquor of the Black Forest region, known as Schwarzwälder Kirsch(wasser), which is distilled from tart cherries. .
Others claim that the name of the cake is inspired by the traditional costume of the women of the region, with a characteristic hat with big, red pom-poms on top, called Bollenhut.
Whatever it’s routes, what we can confirm is that the Black Forest cherry-torte is a delectable treat!
4. Schwarzwald Hochstrasse
Perfect to explore by car or bicycle, Schwarzwald Hochstrasse or Black Forest High Road - runs 37 miles from Baden-Baden to Freudenstadt.
Access many well-maintained hiking trails and enjoy sweeping views of forested mountains, valleys and meadows.
5. Schluchsee
Another vast lake nestled in the Black Forest, Schluchsee is more than 3,000 metres above sea level.
More dizzying still are the undulating green hills that surround this sparkling glacial lake.
Swimming, boating and various watersports can be enjoyed.
6. Black Forest Treetop Walk
Experience the Black Forest from a whole new perspective on the Black Forest Treetop Walk.
From the 40 meter high tower at the end of the treetop path you can enjoy a spectacular 360 degree view of the Black Forest.
The walk itself is a memorable experience. A total length of 1,250 meters and a height of up to 20 meters above the forest floor, climb, balance or walk safely over the abyss.
7. Baden-Baden thermal baths
No less than 12 hot springs feed the romantic spa town of baden-Baden, where for centuries locals have come to be cured, purified and rejuvenated.
The two main bathhouses are Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Spa, where you can unwind in the thermal baths, and enjoy wellness options like saunas and massages.
8. Mummelsee
Local folklore has it that Mummelsee is where you'll find the King of Mummelsee - and, just possibly, mermaids.
Sceptics will see their doubts evaporate when they see the tranquil lake, reflecting as it does the vibrant greens of the forest.
9. Triberg
The Black Forest is the home of the famous cuckoo clock, available in a myriad different styles - from the traditional to the avant-garde.
it’s believed the cuckoo clock as we know it today originated in the town of Schonwald,
However, located directly on the Black Forest railway line is the town of Triberg, equally (if not more so) as famed for its history of cuckoo clock making.
Most of the cuckoo clock makers in the Triberg area are family-run businesses that have continued the tradition down through the last five generations.
The World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock
Unsurprisingly then, that it is here that you will also find the World’s largest cuckoo clock.
Interesting facts about the world’s largest cuckoo clock:
- It took 5 years for watchmaker Ewald Eble, together with his son Ralf, to make the clock.
- The clockwork is 15 feet tall and weighs six tons.
- The cuckoo itself weighs 330 pounds.
- The swinging pendulum is 26 feet long.
House of 1,000 Clocks, Triberg
Make time for House of 1,000 Clocks, a family-owned enterprise where you'll see a fantastic array of clocks.
And of course, you can take one home; many of these delights are surprisingly affordable given their quality.
Triberg Waterfalls
Whilst in Triberg, be sure to visit the towns famous waterfalls.
There are many waterfalls to visit in the Black Forest region, but Triberg Falls is one of Germany's highest waterfalls (163m) and is a Black Forest must-see.
You can enjoy views of this roaring fall for a modest charge.
Reaching the falls requires a short hike of 1.3 miles.
Afterwards you can enjoy a multitude of other hiking trails around the enigmatic Black Forest.
The Black Forest Museum, Triberg
The Black Forest Museum can be found directly below the entrance to the waterfalls.
Here you will get a feel for the region's history and culture.
You'll learn about local handicrafts, the history of mining in the Black Forest native traditions, and of course, cuckoo clocks!
10. Feldberg Mountain
Hop on a panoramic cable car and ascend the famous Feldberg - the Black Forest's loftiest peak.
Beautiful at any time of year, many locals visit during winter for the fabulous skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
Why is the Black Forest called the Black Forest?
The ‘Black Forest’ is known so as it has large expanses of coniferous tree woods that can almost entirely block out the sun in patches.
Even in the ages of the Romans the tribes called the forest area "Silva Nigra", a forest in black.
At that time people settled in the region predominantly on the edge of the forest. Very few had the courage to go into the dense forest and clear it.
When is the best time to visit the Black Forest?
There are many things to do in the Black Forest in all seasons, making it an ideal destination to visit any time of the year.
Can you camp in the Black Forest?
The Black Forest is one of the loveliest camping destinations in Germany and there are a number of campsites in the region.
Located in the heart of the Black Forest, Campsite Kinzigtal is one of our top picks when it comes to Black Forest campsites.
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