Black Forest

Background

The Black Forest lies in south-western Baden-Württemberg, Germany, bordered by the Rhine Valley to the west and south and close to the French and Swiss borders. The range is about 160 kilometres long from north to south and covers about 6,009 square kilometres; its highest peak, the Feldberg, rises to 1,493 metres, and the Danube and the Neckar both have their sources here. Lake Titisee, the Triberg Waterfalls and the Vogtsbauernhof Open Air Museum are classic sights. In ancient times it was called Abnoba mons, and in Roman times Silva Marciana. Historically known for forestry and mining, it now lives mainly from tourism. Around the mid-19th century intensive logging almost cleared the forest; it was later replanted on a large scale, mostly as spruce monoculture. The cuckoo clock, Black Forest gateau (made with chocolate cake, cream, sour cherries and kirsch) and the red pompom hat are its cultural symbols.

Local customs

• Take a boat trip on Lake Titisee or walk around the lake
• hike a forest trail or climb the Feldberg
• visit Triberg for the waterfalls and a cuckoo clock workshop, and try a slice of Black Forest gateau.

Travel tips

• Accommodation in the hills is mainly small-town guesthouses and spa hotels
• some sights and museums have opening hours subject to the official websites
• mountain weather changes fast, so bring rain gear and warm clothing when hiking.
• Freiburg, Baden-Baden and Titisee-Neustadt are reached by train, the area is served by buses and the Black Forest Railway, and you can drive along the B31 and B500 roads
• mountain roads have many bends, so drive slowly. Spring and summer suit hiking and cycling
• autumn brings colourful woods
• in winter you can ski on the higher ground, with snow conditions and lift operations subject to official announcements.