View on mystic trees in Black Forest ()
The Black Forest (Schwarzwald) stretches across a large swath of southwestern Germany. The region spans the borders of France and Switzerland, whose influences are seen in the enchanting villages dotting the rolling hills and breathtaking landscape. While the larger spa town of Baden-Baden and the spectacular waterfalls near Triberg draw crowds, the lush, dense canopy surrounding the smaller villages creates the perfect setting for legends, fairy tales and the perfect winter escape.
Sankt Georgen im Schwarzwald
A short, 15-minute drive east of Triberg will find you in the quaint village of Sankt Georgen im Schwarzwald. If cold or snowy weather keeps you from enjoying the many nearby hiking trails, there is plenty to do inside. The German Phonograph Museum is a great place to start. Home to more than 250 exhibits, this museum documents the history of phonographs, record players and the music industry. The museum is closed in November but reopens from December to April, Wednesday to Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is 5 euros for adults.
Titisee-Neustadt
Just a few kilometers northeast of the quiet shores of Lake Titisee is Titisee-Neustadt. It is home to plenty of relaxing thermal spas and is full of traditional German charm and architecture. Badeparadies Schwarzwald, one of the country’s top-rated indoor water parks, is located just on the outskirts of town. During the winter sports season, Titisee-Neustadt hosts competitions on Hochfirstschanze, Germany’s largest natural ski jump.
Bad Wildbad
With pastel-hued half-timbered buildings lining the Große Enz River that cuts through the middle of the village, Bad Wildbad has something for everyone. The adjacent towns of Sommerberg, Kaltenbronn and Aichelberg offer plenty of skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing action. Those looking for a little more relaxation can visit the Palais Thermal or Vital Therme spa resorts for a day of pampering. Or take in a performance at the beautifully renovated Königliches Kurtheater.
Schonach im Schwarzwald
Deep in the heart of the Black Forest, only a five-minute drive west of Triberg, is Schonach im Schwarzwald. Skiiers are in luck, as a double lift to Skilift Winterberg will pick you up directly in town. There are several cross-country ski areas and toboggan and sledding areas as well. If you’re not feeling the sporty vibe, Schonach is also home to the world’s largest cuckoo clock. Take a peek at this behemoth timepiece and shop for a slightly smaller-sized one to take home.
Schwarzwaldbahn
If you’re torn about which villages to visit, why not take the scenic route? The Black Forest Railway (Badische Schwarzwaldbahn) is a 150-kilometer-long twin track that begins at the northern end at Karlsruhe and ends at the southeastern point at Konstanz. Constructed between 1863 and 1873, the railway travels through 39 tunnels and over two viaducts. Trains pass through picture-perfect scenery of snow-capped mountains, cozy villages and winter landscapes.
Christmas Markets
The Black Forest is home to some amazing Christmas markets during the holiday season. The Ravennaschlucht Weihnachtsmarkt is one of the best ones in the region. More than 40 wooden huts, lights and festive spirit transform the gorge and beautiful arched viaduct above it into a magnificent sight to behold and experience. The market run Nov. 24 through Dec. 17 and is open Friday from 3 to 9 p.m., Saturday from 2 to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 2 to 8 p.m.
Triberger Weihnachtszauber is another must-visit market. The market is truly magical with the backdrop of the Triberg Waterfall, one million twinkling lights, music, and mulled wine. If you can’t make it before the holiday, that’s okay! Triberg Christmas Magic doesn’t open until Christmas Day and runs through Dec. 31. Dazzling fireworks are scheduled for Dec. 27-31, and a daring fire show occurs five times nightly.
From snow sports to rejuvenating at the spa to just enjoying the serene winterscapes, the Black Forest is the perfect place to escape from the ordinary to the extraordinary.
