The Black Forest (Schwarzwald) is one of Germany’s most picturesque regions, its dense pinewoods enveloping rounded granite summits from the Rhine River to Switzerland’s Alpine foothills. The Black Forest has charmed its visitors for centuries, from the Romans who first bathed in its springs 2,000 years ago to the 19th-century nobility that flocked to the woodland getaway. Wander through these magical woods to find relaxing spa resorts, vineyards and undulating hillsides steeped in elaborate tradition.
The genteel spa town of Baden-Baden is one of the region’s best-known destinations, where you can join a list of visitors that includes kings, queens, emperors and composers. Enjoy a pampered holiday or explore some of the town’s surrounding hiking, biking and cross-country skiing trails. Grab a kayak and explore some of the Black Forest’s waterways. Visit the Northern Black Forest to check out some of the region’s scenic drives and traverse rolling hills strung with picturesque vineyards. If you’d prefer not to drive, take a ride on Baden’s Rebenbummler vineyard train.
If you are looking for the Black Forest that appears to be straight out of a Grimm Brothers fairytale, make your way to the Kinzig and Gutach valleys. Toward the south of the region, visit the lively university city of Freiburg. Spend some time exploring its bustling streets or plan your adventure in the mysterious Southern Black Forest. This dramatic landscape is characterized by deep valleys and soaring summits, such as the curved peak of Feldberg. In this region, you’ll find several ski resorts, scenic lakes and Germany’s largest waterfall.
Join a river cruise along the Rhine at any time of the year and take in beautiful views of the forest-fringed banks. Other year-round attractions in the Black Forest include visiting the workshops of woodcarver artisans and experiencing the region’s cuisine. Try cherry gateaux, cured hams and grilled wurst.
The Black Forest is situated within the southwestern state of Baden-Wuerttemberg. Reach the Black Forest by car or by train to one of its major towns. Baden-Baden, in the region’s north, is less than 90 minutes from Stuttgart by car and by train. For rejuvenation and relaxation, the Black Forest is a destination for all seasons.
