The Black Forest in Germany is a mountainous region in the southwest that was once completely covered by an ancient forest. It now boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.

When you visit the Black Forest in Germany, there are a number of things you can do and see to make the most of your trip. With dense coniferous forests, awe-inspiring medieval castles, stunning lakes and picturesque villages nestled between mountainsides, you’ll be hard-pressed not to be inspired here. 

Known as the largest nature park in Germany, the Black Forest is a bucket list destination for people everywhere. If you are also planning to visit the Black Forest, you must gather information about this wonderful place to make your trip memorable. 

Well, this post will give you all the details like the best things to do in the Black Forest. But first; 

Where is the Black Forest in Germany located?

The Black Forest is a mountainous region in the southwestern corner of Germany in the state of Baden-Württemberg. It is bordered by the Rhine valley to the south and west and is close to the Swiss and French borders. 

To help you get a better understanding of this wonderful region, here is a Black Forest map including key towns, landmarks and attractions for you to see during your visit.

Germany’s Black Forest, or Schwarzwald, gets its name from its unique canopy of pine trees. The trees are so dense that even sunlight has trouble reaching the forest floor. Measuring 100 miles from top to bottom, the forest is a staggering expanse of valleys, hills, lakes and forests. 

What is the Black Forest in Germany known for?

Germany’s Black Forest is famous for its dark pine forests, picturesque villages with half-timbered houses, spa towns and rushing waterfalls. It’s home to the Brothers Grimm fairy tales, the world’s largest cuckoo clock and some of the highest mountains in the world. 

It’s hauntingly beautiful, majestic, and home to centuries of German history. Covering an area of ​​about 2,320 square miles, there’s plenty to explore in this destination. Overall, the forest is one of the most popular hiking and tourism destinations in Europe. You’ll find some stunning views here if you can get past all those trees.

History of the Black Forest of Germany

The Black Forest is a vast landscape in southwestern Germany. Although it covers much of the state of Baden-Württemberg, it also passes through the neighboring German states of Rhineland-Palatinate and Hesse. 

Germany’s Black Forest has been home to many migratory tribes for centuries. In the 19th century, this vast forest was named one of the “Seven Wonders of Germany” for its breathtaking natural beauty.

It has a wide selection of mountains and hills. The highest mountains in the area are Feldberg (1,493 m), Herzogenhorn (1,415 m) and Belchen (1,414 m). 

Today, the mountain area is famous for its wooden cuckoo clocks, ancient crafts, traditional architecture and rare wildlife. It offers a variety of tourist attractions and a variety of landscape designs shaped over time. Overall, it is one of the best managed forests in Germany. 

Black Forest Nature

The Black Forest covers part of the Rhone-Alps region of France and the Central European Plain of Germany. Its northern perimeter runs along the western edge of the Upper Rhine Plain as well as the southern boundary of the Central Uplands. 

It can get quite cold in the winter, so consider bringing a warm jacket or down jacket to keep you warm while hiking in this stunning mountain region. It’s a beautiful sight to see on a day trip to the Black Forest.

Black Forest River in Germany

There are many rivers in the region, the major rivers in the Black Forest are the Kinzig, Rhine, Murg and Brigach. At about 93 km long, the Kinzig is one of the most famous rivers in this mountainous region. 

Another river that originates in this dense forest is the Murg River. The local dialect gives it the name Murgäschtrumm. Similarly, the Brigach River has its source at 3,035 ft (925 m) above sea level in this forest. 

The Rhine, perhaps the most famous river in Germany, is the second longest river in Western and Central Europe. It flows rapidly between the Black Forest region and the Alpine mainland.  

Why is the Black Forest in Germany called the Black Forest?

The name has nothing to do with fear, negativity, or dark history! As mentioned earlier, it is called the Black Forest because it has vast coniferous forests that can almost completely block out the sun in patches. However, the Black Forest is a beautiful place to visit.

The Black Forest has some great tourist attractions and offers plenty for families to do on their trip. Although this mountainous region is part of Germany, it has its own distinct identity. If you want to learn more about the region and its offerings, keep reading!

Best things to see in the Black Forest

As mentioned above, the Black Forest is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Germany. But don’t just take our word for it. In this section, you’ll find a ton of great things to do and see here!

Read on for our favorite reasons why you should visit this forest.

1. Appreciate the majestic scenery

The name ?Black Forest? was given to it by the Romans due to the fact that dense forests covered most of this mountainous region until recent times.

Today the Black Forest remains a lush green area. Its rugged beauty is unbeatable and it is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe.

Beautiful lakes, waterfalls, timber-framed houses and dense pine forests are some of the highlights of this destination. 

2. Try skiing

Skiing is one of the most enjoyable activities in the Black Forest, Germany in winter. The Black Forest is one of Germany’s top ski destinations. It offers more than 170 ski lifts and 250 km of ski slopes in more than 80 different ski resorts.

Most of the ski lifts are located around Todtnau Berg and Feldberg. With some of the best ski slopes and most exciting ski lifts in Europe, it’s no surprise that this mountainous region is famous for skiing.

3. Walking in the woods

You don’t need to be in great shape to hike in the Black Forest (although it helps). There are trails for everyone, regardless of ability. 

With picturesque mountain views that entice visitors at every turn, the Black Forest hiking trails in this forest will never disappoint. 

But if you want to make the most of your hike, try the Black Forest High Trail. This stunning route runs for around 1,100 miles across Germany and takes you through some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery ???? guaranteed to be an adventure! 

4. Explore Germany’s elegant towns

Most people associate the Black Forest with its stunning scenery. But the region is also home to some of Germany’s most beautiful small towns. Baden-Baden, Heidelberg and Gengenbach are just a few of the top spots.

Each town has its own significance and offers a lot of interesting things for visitors. For example, Baden-Baden has been famous as a spa town since Roman times.

The town has a number of spas for visitors to warm up in the cold weather with natural hot springs. Sitting in forested valleys or perched on wooded hillsides, these beautiful towns can often be seen from afar.

5. Visit the Black Forest Museum

Address: Wahlbrücke 1, 77793 Gutach (Schwarzwaldbahn), Germany

There are several museums throughout the Black Forest. Among them, the Black Forest Museum in Triberg takes people back hundreds of years to life in the area. It is the perfect place to explore the history and culture of the area.

It has a selection of exhibits and themes that are colorfully displayed. The museum features exhibits on mining, watches, crafts, woodwork and unique traditions of the region.

Here you can also admire the minerals and stones being mined, traditional costumes, straw weaving, musical instruments, antique clocks and jewelry.

Visiting this museum is one of the best ways to learn more about this historic mountain region.

6. Stop at the Black Forest Spa Route

The Schwarzwald Bäderstrasse (Black Forest Spa Route) runs between Freudenstadt and Pforzheim. The route takes visitors on a 270-km cycle path through historic villages, beautiful valleys, elegant spa towns and monasteries.

Since this route is a loop of several spas, including Baden Baden, you are sure to find a place to relax along this extensive route.

If you want to take a break while enjoying some of the world’s most beautiful scenery, stop by one of the spas along the route for a massage, pedicure and facial.

7. Plan a trip to Europa Park

Address: Europa-Park-Straße 2, 77977 Rust, Germany

Europa Park is one of the best and largest amusement parks in Europe. Spread over 160 acres, it is one of the most visited attractions in Germany.

Each area of ​​this amusement park is a reflection of a different European country and its architecture. It has hundreds of attractions, including skiing, roller coasters, a model of Russia’s Mir Space Station, and rafting through the African jungle!

Europa Park also hosts various competitions and shows throughout the year. In short, the park has something for everyone of all ages. If you are a thrill seeker, you should definitely check out this amazing amusement park.

8. Visit wildlife

The Black Forest is an important nature reserve in Europe. It is home to native plants, animals and birds that depend on the forest habitat for their survival.

Here you will find European bison, fallow deer, mouflon, sika deer and a wide variety of birds, including the red-backed sandpiper. The forest also has a diverse flora, offering hiking trails to suit everyone’s interests.

If you are a wildlife lover, this park offers endless opportunities for you to catch a glimpse of some rare animals. 

9. Visit the fairy tale village

The Black Forest is famous for its fairytale-like villages, including Triberg, Bühl, Hornberg and Schiltach. These enchanting locations come straight from a storybook.

Although some of these villages date back to the 13th Century, they all provide the perfect setting for a fairytale holiday.

Triberg, Germany

Address: Triberg 78098, Germany

Triberg is a picturesque small town in southwestern Germany. This popular tourist destination is home to Germany’s tallest waterfall and the world’s smallest and largest cuckoo clock.

The town is home to a popular ski resort that attracts winter sports enthusiasts. Around 600,000 people visit the area each year to enjoy the scenic beauty of the resort while skiing or hiking.

This mountain village is located about 20 km southeast of Titisee-Neustadt or Lake Titisee, about 120 km southwest of Freiburg and about 140 km south of Karlsruhe.

Bühl, Germany

Address: Bühl, Germany

Just a 40-minute drive northwest of Stuttgart is the small town of Bühl. This fairytale town is home to many roads, bridges and waterways, offering a break from everyday worries. 

Full of history, both Buhl and Baden have many medieval attractions worth exploring.

Hornberg, Germany

Address : Hornberg 78132, Germany

Hornberg is a small town in the Black Forest region of southern Germany. It is mainly a tourist destination and has many attractions worth exploring. The most famous attraction in the town is the castle. There are also other historical buildings, such as the church.

Although Hornberg is not known for any particular industry, there are tourist attractions that contribute to its economy. Tourists mainly come here for day trips or extended stays at nearby hotels or campgrounds.

Schiltach, Germany

Address: Schiltach 77761, Germany

Schiltach is a medieval town in the Black Forest. It is located on the Kinzig River, in a small valley between the Black Forest and the Vosges Mountains. There are many natural wonders to explore, including waterfalls and oak forests that take you back hundreds of years. 

One of Schiltach’s biggest attractions is its century-old baroque buildings, which offer a glimpse into history and culture. Schiltach also has many historical and cultural sites that attract tourists all year round, especially during Christmas.

10. Visit Baiersbronn

Address: Baiersbronn 72270, Germany

Also known as Germany’s Michelin Star Town, Baiersbronn is a mountain resort town in the Black Forest of Germany. Located in the north of the forest, about 7 km north of Freudenstadt. 

This mountain town comprises nine stunning villages and is renowned for its Michelin-starred restaurants and vibrant culinary culture. It offers plenty of options for fine dining. 

While in town, you can also enjoy long walks through the woods, visit a 12th-century monastery and burn calories on the ski slopes. 

Surrounded by lush greenery, this location is a few miles from Germany’s famous Traube Tonbach Hotel. Book a room at this luxurious hotel to make the most of your visit to Baiersbronn. 

11. Discover the story of Pumpernickel bread

Pumpernickel is a dark bread that was created in Germany in the 15th or 16th century. In 1589, King Wilhelm declared that only rye could be used to bake bread in his territory. The result? A dark bread called Pumpernickel! It’s like a lighter version of rye bread.

Rye flour is high in phytates and other substances that react with gluten and produce delicious carotenes.

Although Pumpernickel bread is available in most supermarkets, bakers from the Black Forest region are known to make the best Pumpernickel bread.

12. Participate in sports in the Black Forest

The Black Forest is popular with thrill seekers. There are many sports schools that offer skiing, trampoline jumping, and even horse riding lessons.

There are probably more than a dozen ski areas, ranging from small to large. Whether you prefer cross-country or downhill skiing, you’ll find something to suit your tastes. It’s also perfect for those looking to improve their skiing skills.

It is also home to several indoor and outdoor swimming pools, so if you are not a skier but still want to enjoy the Black Forest waters in winter, no need to worry.

And last but not least, horse riding schools will make you feel like a real cowboy or cowgirl. You can choose from horse riding tours, mountain climbing or English horse riding.

13. Step into a fairy tale this holiday season

Located on the western edge of the Black Forest, Gengenbach is a popular tourist destination. The town is famous in Germany for its half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, unique Christmas markets and legendary advent calendars.

The town has a traditional, picturesque town centre in the Old Town or Altstadt. Here you will find the world’s largest advent calendar. The 24th window of the town hall shows the 24 days of the advent calendar in December!

14. Try the Black Forest Gateau

This German sweet treat is made with cherries, dark chocolate and whipped cream? a perfect summer treat. Black Forest Cake is a delicious dessert filled with cherries, chocolate and whipped cream. This classic German dessert is made with layers of cake, cherry filling, whipped cream and covered in dark chocolate.

This is a popular dessert in and outside of Germany. No visit to the Black Forest is complete without trying this delicious cake. You can enjoy the eponymous chocolate cherry cake at almost every eatery throughout the Black Forest.

15. Try MORE Chocolate!

The Black Forest is home to some of the best artisanal chocolate makers in Germany. Lindt & Sprüngli, Dreistadt and Teuscher have all set up shop here. And visiting on German Chocolate Day is a great time to try them. Yes, that’s a real day.

16. Visit PLAYMOBIL Amusement Park

Address: Brandstätterstraße 2-10, 90513 Zirndorf, Germany

Yes, you read that right! PLAYMOBIL has a park! To make your Black Forest trip unforgettable, consider visiting the PLAYMOBIL Amusement Park.

Covering an area of ​​approximately 90,000 square meters, the Black Forest Playmobile Amusement Park is the largest of its kind in the world. The park has four different areas, including Adventure Land, Knight?s Castle, Village and Castle Square.

It offers a variety of fun activities for everyone. Children can make their fantasies come true in the oversized Playmobil play area, and parents can relax in the relaxing atmosphere of the park. You can spend a day at Playmobil Amusement Park with your family without ever getting bored, no matter what age they are.

Black Forest Travel Guide 

If you are visiting the Black Forest and want to get the most out of your experience, we recommend you try these. If not, don’t worry! The beauty of this region is too great for a single visit; come back soon so you can explore more of what it has to offer.

We hope our guide will help make your journey in the Black Forest as enjoyable as possible. Enjoy exploring one of Germany’s most beautiful regions on your next trip.

How many regions are there in the Black Forest?

Well, the Black Forest has many regions, including:

– Southeastern Black Forest
– Black Forest Foothills
– The High Black Forest
– Grinden Black Forest and Enz Hills
– Central Black Forest
– Northern Black Forest Valley

What is the best place to find cuckoo clocks in the Black Forest?

The German Clock Museum in Furtwangen is a must-see if you’re looking for the famous cuckoo clocks of the Black Forest. It houses over 8,000 clocks and watches from around the world.

Also, if you want to buy a cuckoo clock, there are many great manufacturers based in the area. The museum should be able to point you in the right direction.

What are some unusual things to do in the Black Forest Mountains?

Some unusual and common things you can do in this dark forest are as follows:

– Learn to cook with local wild plants
– Visit the House of 1000 Clocks – a 5-generation watchmaker
– Celebrating Christmas in Gengenbach
– Swimming in Lake Titisee
– Crossing Lake Schluchsee by boat