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Visit the Black Forest

July 30, 2012

The scenic Black Forest region in southern Germany is steeped in charm. It's known for its thick forests, ravines, lakes, cuckoo clocks and traditional costumes.

The scenic Black Forest region in southern Germany is steeped in charm. It's known for its thick forests, ravines, lakes, cuckoo clocks and traditional costumes.
Image: AP

In the year 868, the Black Forest region was known as "Svarzwald" and was relatively unchartered territory. Back then, the forest consisted largely of beech trees - today, spruces make up 80 percent of the woodland.

The Black Forest attracts visitors from all over the world. The up-market resort town of Baden-Baden lies to the north, and boasts the Frieder Burda art museum. In the south, you'll find the Feldberg - the highest peak in the state of Baden-Württemberg and a magnet for winter sports enthusiasts.

The Black Forest is a magnet for winter sports enthusiastsImage: Achim Mende/STG

The region also boasts over 20,000 kilometers (12,500 miles) of hiking trails, which lend themselves well to snow-shoe expeditions. At the Fairytale Museum in Baiersbronn, visitors can find out more about local heritage, and at the traditional Morlokhof, they can enjoy a five-course menu.

Stefan Strumbel is an up-and-coming local artist. Click on the video below to join him on a tour of his favorite sites in the Black Forest.

Recommended - Three Tips for a Trip to the Black Forest

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From Visit Germany
Editor: Sue Cox

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