Hotels near Black Forest, Germany

The Black Forest has many hiking trails and offers a rich network of routes suited to all skill levels. For gentle, family-friendly walks, the Triberg Waterfalls Trail is a favourite, leading to Germany’s highest waterfalls with well-marked paths and scenic forest views. Intermediate hikers often enjoy the Schluchtensteig Trail, a more adventurous multi-day route that winds through deep gorges, dense woods and past quiet lakes.

For those seeking a challenge, the Westweg Trail stretches over 280 kilometres from Pforzheim to Basel, offering high-altitude views, alpine meadows and panoramic ridges. Shorter segments of this trail can also be enjoyed as day hikes.

Along the way, hikers are rewarded with sweeping vistas, charming villages and local wildlife. With well-maintained paths and plenty of signposting, the Black Forest’s hiking trails offer a way to experience the region’s natural beauty.

Yes, the Black Forest train routes are known for their scenic views, providing a relaxing and picturesque way to explore the region. The Black Forest Railway (Schwarzwaldbahn) is one of the most famous, running from Offenburg to Singen.

This route takes around 2 to 3 hours and passes through dense forest, over viaducts and through numerous tunnels, offering sweeping views of valleys and mountain landscapes. Another popular choice is the Höllentalbahn, which travels from Freiburg to Donaueschingen.

Known as Germany’s steepest railway line, it features dramatic climbs and panoramic views, particularly around the Ravenna Gorge. These train journeys combine comfort with sightseeing and are well‑suited for travellers who wish to experience the region’s natural beauty without hiking or driving.

To see the Black Forest’s autumn colours, a good time to visit is typically from late September to mid-October. During this period, the region transforms its colour palette as the dense woodland landscapes shift with the season.

The change begins earlier in the higher elevations and gradually moves down into the valleys, providing a rolling display of autumn scenery. This is also an excellent time for hiking or scenic drives, with crisp air and fewer crowds adding to the charm.

Popular spots such as Mummelsee, Triberg and the Black Forest High Road (Schwarzwaldhochstraße) offer particularly scenic views during this time.

Yes, the Black Forest Christmas markets are popular with locals and tourists alike. There are many to choose from, each offering a magical atmosphere during the festive season.

One of the most well-known is in Freiburg, where stalls fill the historic old town with handmade crafts, seasonal treats and glowing lights. Baden-Baden’s Christmas market, set against the backdrop of the spa town’s elegant architecture, is another highlight, featuring an ice rink and daily entertainment.

For a unique experience, the Ravennaschlucht Christmas Market is set beneath a railway viaduct in a forested gorge, offering an atmospheric setting with artisanal gifts and traditional foods. Most markets run from late November until the end of December, with weekends often the most festive.

Black Forest local food highlights include the eponymous Black Forest gâteau, a layered chocolate cake filled with cherries and cream and Schwarzwälder Schinken (Black Forest ham), smoked using traditional methods, often served with fresh bread and pickles. Rostbratwurst, hearty venison stews and Spätzle, a type of soft egg noodle, are also local favourites, found in traditional guesthouses and mountain lodges.

Many dishes reflect the Black Forest’s agricultural heritage, using ingredients sourced from local farms and forests.

Potato-based soups or dumpling dishes make for a warming meal during colder months.