Located in southwestern Germany, in the state of Baden-Württemberg, the Black Forest (Black Forestin German) is a peculiar region in Germany, with its charming nature and preserved local traditions.
Home of the cuckoo clock, inspiration for legends and fairy tales by the Brothers Grimm, and address of world-renowned traditional thermal spas. With this magical atmosphere, the Black Forest is a popular vacation spot not only for the international traveler, but for residents from all over Germany and neighboring countries such as France and Switzerland.
Bollenhutthe typical hat of the Black Forest
One of the great symbols of the Black Forest is the Bollenhut, the curious hat with 14 red woolen pompoms originates around 1750, when worn by Protestant women. In tradition, single women wear red pompoms, married women wear black pompoms. Currently, Bollenhut is used on holidays and traditional events, and found in local produce shops.
Black Forest Pie, more than 100 years of tradition
Known in Germany as “Schwarzwaelder Kirschtorte”, the Black Forest pie basically consists of several layers of chocolate cake moistened with Kirchwasser (cherry-based brandy, typical of the region), with whipped cream and cooked cherries between each layer. Then the cake is decorated with additional whipped cream, cherries and chocolate shavings. Thus, the alcoholic drink coming from a typical fruit of the region was combined with the whimsy of German cakes.
Among the countless theories about the origin of the Black Forest cake, it is still debated whether the cake was created by confectioner Josef Keller or confectioner Erwin Hildenbrand. What is certain is that the German Black Forest pie is not as sweet as the one we find in Brazil. This is because German desserts tend to be more discreet in adding sugar compared to Brazilian ones.
Baden-Baden
With a casino and the most famous and traditional thermal baths in the region, Baden-Banden has many attractions, being the best-known city in the Black Forest.
From the opulent casino to the charming streets of shops and cafes, with architecture reminiscent of the elegant European Belle Époque, amid countless parks and hills, Baden-Baden looks like a city within a garden. Baden-Baden is also the epicenter of cultural events in the Black Forest, with concerts, theaters and attractions such as the Faberge Museum.
When Europeans finally discovered the possible medicinal effects of thermal baths at the beginning of the 19th century, Baden-Baden became a popular destination among emperors, kings, the upper class and artists, such as the writer Fjodor Dostojewski. In 1880, in his travel book “A Tramp Abroad”, Mark Twain shined his flashlight towards Americans towards the Black Forest region when he wrote about the spas of Baden-Baden:
“Here… you lose track of time in ten minutes and the world in twenty.”
Triberg
Certainly the cuckoo clocks They are great souvenirs, and more importantly, they are a source of pride for the Triberg community. Before industrialization, many farmers used the wood to make cuckoo clocks as a way to supplement their income during the harsh winter months. To this day, the region’s watchmakers preserve this tradition, using the same artisanal techniques to produce hand-carved cuckoo clocks, famous for their quality and precision.
Triberg also has a second impressive attraction, its waterfall. At 163 meters high, it is (considered by many) the highest waterfall in Germany, attracting many tourists who want to enjoy nature in its moment of splendor.
Thermal baths: medicine and culture
With its dense pine trees where the sun’s rays struggle to reach the ground, the more than 160 km of the Black Forest have long been enjoyed. The Romans arrived in the region around two thousand years ago, bringing thermal baths to the region, which played an important role in the culture of the Roman community. They found natural hot springs in the region, which were the perfect place for the practice they so cherished. It was in the thermal waters of Aurelia Aquensis, today the city of Baden-Baden, that Emperor Caracalla sought relief from his rheumatic pains.
Freiburg
The self-proclaimed “sunniest city in Germany”, certainly Freiburg in Breisgau it is one of the jewels of the Black Forest. With its streams that keep visitors company while walking along its cobblestone streets, we can also find striking buildings in the historic center (Altstadt), such as the cathedral and city hall.
Engaged in the environmental cause, the city values sustainability, and is a great destination for those who wish to take ecological and bicycle tours, as the city boasts hundreds of kilometers of cycle paths, from the city to the countryside. For travelers arriving from southern Germany, Freiburg is the gateway to the Black Forest.
Hiking Options in the Black Forest: An Adventure for All Levels
When talking about the Black Forest, one of the first things that come to mind is the incredible network of hiking trails that the region offers. With a variety of routes to suit everyone, from beginners to the most experienced walkers, the options are practically endless.
Variety of Routes
What makes the Black Forest such a popular hiking destination is its vast array of trails. From leisurely strolls alongside enchanting waterfalls to multi-day mountain challenges, there’s something for every type of adventurer.
Special Interests
In addition to the natural beauty, the trails often pass through points of historical and cultural interest. Imagine walking through a valley that was once the center of the region’s milling industry, or passing by an old chapel that holds centuries-old stories. If you want to discover these historic places and more, we have the perfect service for you.
