A Weekend in the Black Forest: Destinations and Hiking Tips

The Black Forest, located in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, offers a natural paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring picturesque lakes and extensive hiking trails. This guide outlines a potential weekend itinerary for exploring this region.

Friday: Arrival and Triberg Waterfalls

Getting There

The Black Forest is accessible via public transport. Key train stations include Freiburg, Titisee-Neustadt, and Triberg. Triberg is the first suggested destination.

Triberg Waterfalls

• Description: The Triberg Waterfalls are the highest in Germany, with a total drop of 163 meters over two cascades.
• Location: Situated within a small national park, originating from the Gutach river.
• Access: Marked by small forest trails and two wooden bridges.
• Cost: Admission is 5 Euros.
• Time Allocation: Allow approximately one hour for a visit.
• Features: Visitors can expect impressive cascades, granite rock formations, and numerous squirrels for which food can be purchased.

Accommodation

Accommodation options include hotels and holiday apartments. Apartments can be found via platforms like Airbnb, offering a chance to connect with locals for tips.

Evening Exploration

An evening stroll is recommended. Explore the numerous paths, observe nature, discover anthills, and enjoy the fresh air.

Saturday: Hiking the Ravennaschlucht and Relaxing at Titisee

Ravennaschlucht (Ravenna Gorge)

• Scenery: Characterized by moss and fern-covered rocks, pine scents, and a wild stream cascading downwards.
• Trail: The path winds over rocks, small bridges, wooden walkways, and soft, needle-covered forest floor. Walking barefoot is an option on parts of the trail.
• Points of Interest: The trail passes two old mills and culminates at a large viaduct used by the Höllentalbahn railway. Nearby are the St. Oswald Chapel (built in 1148) and the Hofgut Sternen, a historic inn.
• Duration: A leisurely hike through the gorge takes about 1.5 hours.
• Recommendations: Wear sturdy footwear and bring a picnic to enjoy on sunny rocks. The surrounding forests and meadows offer opportunities to extend the hike.

Titisee

• Description: After exploring the gorge, relax by the Titisee, a lake formed by the Feldberg glacier. The water is cold, but swimming is an option for the adventurous.
• Relaxation: Alternatively, enjoy a drink by the lake shore.