Where is the Black Forest?
The Black Forest is a mountain range in southern Germany. The landscape is teeming with striking natural beauty that’s waiting to be explored, from waterfalls and streams to high-altitude clearings with panoramic views. Plus, there are plenty of charming towns and farms where you can soak up the local culture.
The Black Forest is widely regarded as one of the best places to visit in Germany, and it’s no surprise that its enchanting landscape served as the backdrop for the Brothers Grimm fairytales.
Whether you’re planning a winter ski trip to the Black Forest or a summer hiking holiday, it’s one of Germany’s most spectacular destinations all year round.
How to get to the Black Forest from the UK
Plan a stress-free trip to the Black Forest with DFDS ferries to Germany. Our ferry crossing from Newcastle to Amsterdam is the fastest way to reach southern Germany and unlock the magic of the Black Forest.
Enjoy a comfortable journey with fantastic daily entertainment, excellent restaurants and pet-friendly amenities on board. With daily sailings offering you complete flexibility. So, bring your vehicle and as much luggage as you like, and get your trip off to a smooth start.
Before beginning your onward journey, check our guides to motorbiking or driving in Germany to make sure you’re up to speed with the rules of the road.
Top attractions
Triberg Waterfalls
Follow picturesque trails through the mountains to the Triberg Waterfalls and marvel at one of the most popular sights in the Black Forest.
Baden-Baden
Baden-Baden is a 19th-century spa town in the heart of the Black Forest, where you can enjoy some rest and rejuvenation against the dramatic backdrop.
Feldberg Mountain
The highest mountain in the Black Forest is a skier’s paradise in winter or an unmissable walking destination in spring and summer.
Black Forest Open Air Museum
Visit the Black Forest Open Air Museum to learn about how people have lived and thrived in the challenging landscape. Tour historic farms nestled in the mountains, and take in every aspect of farm life as far back as the 16th century.
Lake Titisee
Lake Titisee is a tranquil paradise in the southern Black Forest, boasting beautiful scenery and a range of water sports and hiking routes.
Best routes for exploring
The Black Forest High Road (Schwarzwaldhochstraße)
The Black Forest High Road is the most beautiful route through the Black Forest. It connects Baden-Baden and Freudenstadt via a 60km stretch of picturesque road. There are plenty of places to stop along the way, from a luxury hotel at the Bühlerhöhe to several skiing and hiking hotspots and nature parks.
The German Clock Road (Deutsche Uhrenstraße)
The German Clock Road stretches for 320km, connecting the historic areas of Black Forest clock manufacturing and watchmaking. It joins the central Black Forest to the Baar region in a circular route that explores the southern Black Forest.
The Wine Route (Badische Weinstraße)
The Wine Route is one of southern Germany’s most picturesque routes. It connects vineyards and wineries across 500km, winding through famous Baden wine regions. There are plenty of opportunities to stop for wine tastings at different vineyards and indulge in delicious local cuisine.
Outdoor activities
Hiking trails
Unsurprisingly, the Black Forest is a popular hiking spot for locals and tourists alike. There is a range of trails to suit walkers, hikers, and climbers of varying experience levels. From long-distance trails that take days to traverse to short hikes perfect for a sunny afternoon, explore the Black Forest on foot.
Cycling routes
The Black Forest is the ideal location for keen cyclists looking for a new challenge. Explore a range of routes, from flat, picturesque trails with panoramic views to hilly paths that put your endurance to the test. Many cycling routes are also equipped for e-bikes.
Winter sports
While the Black Forest is nowhere near the Alps, it would be easy to confuse the two in winter! Whether you’d rather go to a luxury ski resort or you’re keen on cross-country skiing, there are several winter sports areas catering to all tastes and abilities.
Traditional German food and drink in the Black Forest
Black Forest Gateau
Black Forest Gateau is one of the most famous desserts in Germany. It consists of rich chocolate cake, finished with Kirsch, cherry jam, whipped cream and cherries. Every other year, the Black Forest town of Todtnauberg holds a festival to celebrate this iconic German dessert.
Wineries and breweries
Germany is famous for its beer and wine. The Badische Staatsbrauerei Rothaus is the highest brewery in Germany, producing well-known regional beers crafted with local ingredients. The Black Forest is also next door to Germany’s world-renowned wine region, so it’s no surprise that there are plenty of local wineries and breweries that you can explore during your trip.
