BLACK FOREST
Learn about the history, culture and local cuisine of the Black Forest by combining scenic panoramic routes with some of the attractions along the way.
2 OPTIONS OF PANORAMIC ROUTES IN THE BLACK FOREST TO CHOOSE FROM:
EXPLORING THE NORTH OF THE BLACK FOREST
A scenic panoramic drive up and down the mountains to explore the villages along the valley, stopping every now and then to admire the views and to explore ancient mills. We will stop to visit the Mummelsee lake (one of the many glacier lakes in the Black Forest), followed by a walk through the enchanting town of Sasbachwalden (option to hike to the water fall to see one of the many schnapps’ fountains of the region).
EXPLORING THE CENTRE OF THE BLACK FOREST
A panoramic drive will take us to our first stop: the enchanting medieval village of Gengenbach.
Strolling through it’s charming alleys filled with half-timerbred houses, you will learn about the importance of the timber in the region. You will also marvel at its medieval towers and walls. During the Xmas time, the town hall becomes the largest Advent Calendar in the world!
Another memorable stop will be at the Vogtsbauernhof (Open Air Museum of the Black Forest). An exceptional location where several old farmhouses were reassembled to showcase the farm way of living of the old centuries.
And last, but not least, we will make a stop at a Cuckoo shop to admire a work of a passionate craftsman: one of the largest cuckoo clocks in the world!
Guided tours around the Black Forest area:
FREIBURG
A vibrant university city with the charm of an old town. Although badly damaged during the WWII, Freiburg’s historical city centre was beautifully rebuilt. A visit to the “Munster” (cathedral) is a must, together with a stroll through the former millers, fisherman and tanner’s district. At the Munster Platz, everyday a market takes place. This is your chance to see the locals get by, but also an opportunity to taste the famous “Lange rote” (long sausage). And in the summer months, you can even rest and refresh your feet in one of the many “bächle” (streams of water).
BADEN-BADEN
The Romans were the first to discover the warm springs in the region. La “Belle Epoque” attracted the rich and famous, and with the construction of the casino, Baden-Baden became known as the “summer capital of Europe”.
Walking through its pristine gardens and alleys and admiring the elegant hotels is a feast to the eyes. Taking the funicular to the Merkur mountain will award you with breath-taking views over the city. And your visit to the city cannot be completed without a dip in one of its many spas.
BASEL
Seating by the river Rhine, in the border of 3 countries, Basel is a lively and cosmopolitan city.
Unlike its neighbours, it has a very well-preserved historical centre, spared by the wars.
The Tinguely Fountain represents perfectly Basel: historical, carefree and innovative.
From the cathedral, enjoy a fantastic view over the Rhine and admire the boats (and the swimmers!) being taken down by its current.
During the summer months you can even have a dip (drink in hand!) in one of the many fountains.
GENGENBACH
Badly destroyed by the French during the 30 year’s war, Gengenbach was rebuilt to its glory. The city attracts visitors thanks to its charming medieval vibe. Parts of the medieval fortification wall and towers can still be seen today. The visible cellars in the old half-timbered houses remind us of the history of the wine in the region. A visit to the Raftsman Museum will present you with the importance of the timber in the region, while the wooden masks of the Fool’s Museum will introduce you to the traditions and characters of the local Carnival. Hiking up the Bergle Hill will award you with a magnificent view over the vineyards and the town. During the Xmas time, the Town Hall becomes the largest advent calendar in the world!
VOGTSBAUERNHOF
A must-see “open air museum” tucked into a valley surrounded by the Black Forest.
The farm houses in the Black Forest were isolated and remotely located, therefore they had to be self-sufficient. That’s why they are called “all under one roof” …and that applied to the animals too!
These amazing timber buildings (dating as far back as the XVI century), were gathered in this location to showcase the way of living of the Black Forest farmers.
Get ready to travel back in time with me while we explore these extraordinary constructions and the history and traditions of these villages…including the famous red bollenhut hat!
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IncludedBLACK FOREST