The Black Forest, or Schwarzwald as it’s known in German, is one of the most stunning regions in Germany. And no, it’s not actually black. The mountainous region is named for its dense canopy of mostly pine and fir trees, which give it its dark appearance.
The area is a cultural and traditional gem, with plenty to see and do. Here you can explore the outdoors, relax in a spa town surrounded by lush natural beauty, enjoy Black Forest foods, and learn more about the origins of the classic cuckoo clock.
Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Germany’s Black Forest and how to navigate your journey by train.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Jaap Hooijkaas. Image Location: Triberg Falls, Triberg im Schwarzwald, Germany.
The Black Forest in Germany: FAQ
Where is the Black Forest in Germany?
The Black Forest is in the southwestern part of Germany, mainly in the state of Baden-Württemberg. It stretches from just southwest of the German city of Stuttgart to the borders of Switzerland and France.
What is famous about the Black Forest?
The Black Forest is famous for several reasons, especially its natural beauty, which includes forests, hills, mountains, lakes, rivers, and wildlife. The region is also home to several spa towns, like Baden-Baden.
The Black Forest is also famous for being the birthplace of the cuckoo clock, as well as its best-known local cuisine, the Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte).
How many days should I spend in the Black Forest, Germany?
If you’ve got limited time during your travels, you can cover some of the Black Forest’s highlights in about two to three days. But if you really want to immerse yourself in nature, and truly experience the culture of this place, you should aim for at least five to seven days to visit all the popular spots spread across the region.
Image Credit: Getty Images, FLAMINIA PELAZZI. Image Location: Lake Titisee, Germany.
Must-see attractions in the Black Forest, Germany
Nature, nature, and more nature
The region offers numerous trails, such as the 51-mile Westweg hiking trail, which runs all the way through the Black Forest from Pforzheim to Basel, Switzerland. When hiking Westweg, you’ll not only see several of the region’s towns and villages, but also come across a myriad of natural wonders, like waterfalls.
The much-visited Lake Titisee, located in the south of the Black Forest, is ideal in summer for water sports, boat trips, and scenic walks along the promenade. In winter, the frozen lake transforms into an ice rink.
Spa resorts
Opt to relax in one of the Black Forest’s many spa towns with thermal baths, including Baden-Baden, Bad Wildbad, Badenweiler, Bad Herrenalb, and more.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Niaz Chowdhury. Image Location, Triberg im Schwarzwald, Germany.
The cuckoo clock
Famous for its cuckoo clocks, visit the Black Forest town of Triberg im Schwarzwald to see the world’s largest cuckoo clock and to learn more about this cultural icon of Germany.
Michelin-star dining
Apart from boasting its own famous cuisine, the Black Forest region in Germany is renowned for its abundant Michelin-starred restaurants, with the village of Baiersbronn alone having eight Michelin stars. So, take your pick.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Laurent Meister. Image Location: Hohenzollern Castle, Germany.
Castles
Hohenbaden Old Castle, positioned high above the renowned spa town, adds an air of sophistication to your relaxing visit. Meanwhile, Ortenberg Castle, situated between Offenburg and Gengenbach, showcases its well-preserved medieval history. Just east of the Black Forest near Bisingen, you’ll find Hohenzollern Castle, perched atop a mountain—an iconic masterpiece offering jaw-dropping panoramic views.
Image Credit: Getty Images, BFC/Ascent Xmedia. Image Location: Black Forest, Germany.
Scenic train rides across the Black Forest, Germany
Be sure to hop on one of the many scenic train rides in the Black Forest for an experience like no other.
Affectionately known as the Höllentalbahn (literally: “Hell Valley Railway), this train route is a must-do, journeying from the city of Freiburg im Breisgau, and weaving its way through the captivating Höllental (“Hell's Valley”) to the town of Donaueschingen.
As the train chugs along, you’ll be treated to spellbinding vistas of the region’s picturesque landscapes—and you’ll even cross the 190-ft-high Ravenna Bridge.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Britus. Image Location: Black Forest, Germany.
How to get to Germany’s Black Forest by train
If you want to travel to the Black Forest by train, which is a great idea, you have some options.
The closest cities and towns include Freiburg im Breisgau (a gateway to the Southern Black Forest), Karlsruhe and Pforzheim (gateways to the Northern Black Forest), Baden-Baden (on the north-western edge), Stuttgart (to the northeast), and even Basel (if you're coming from the south).
Download the Trainline app to navigate into the whimsical Black Forrest.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, AscentXmedia. Image Location: Black Forest, Germany.