There are many reasons to visit the Schwarzwald in Germany, but one stands above the rest: it is really, really stunning! I grew up on the other side of Germany, in Upper Franconia, close to the Czech border. Now, I have settled in western Germany—just 9 km from the French border and only 20 minutes from the Schwarzwald, or Black Forest. I can even see it from my balcony!
I love exploring my new surroundings. Have you read about my first month in Oberkirch? Read here: Back in Germany. My new beginning the in the Black Forest.
So, what makes this area so special? What are the reasons to visit the Schwarzwald?
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Reasons to visit the Schwarzwald (Black Forest)
As you may have noticed by now, I am a big fan of outdoor activities, whether it is cycling, walking or hiking. And there is certainly plenty of hiking to be done in the Schwarzwald.
Okay, as I am writing this, I must admit that I have only completed two hikes so far. Both were very beautiful, however, and completely different. For outdoor lovers, this is definitely one of the best reasons to visit the Schwarzwald.
Does driving through the Black Forest count as well? I have already done that a few times!
Otherwise, cycling keeps me busy for the rest of the time. Nevertheless, whenever I walk through the forest, I feel as though I have stepped into a fairy tale. It certainly has that Brothers Grimm atmosphere! The Schwarzwald is a very special, wonderfully green fairy-tale forest.
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Hiking from Seebach to Mummelsee – Black Forest
The 13 km loop from Seebach to Mummelsee was very enjoyable. I parked in the centre of Seebach, close to a hiking map, there is always a hiking map! Once you have chosen your route and found the correct signs towards Mummelsee, your hike can begin.
The trail passes picturesque fields and a few private homes before heading straight into the Black Forest. From there, it simply goes up and up. The path itself is easy enough, and a small stream runs alongside parts of the route. Its sound was certainly refreshing, although it is always safest to bring your own drinking water rather than rely on untreated streams. I definitely needed plenty of water that day!
After around one hour and 30 minutes of hiking, I reached Mummelsee, along with everyone else who had driven up there to enjoy lunch.
The path back to the car (only 5km) was a little bit rockier and more through the forest, which was nice. Definitely take your time and stop at the Hohfelsen. The view is stunning!
It was nice to enjoy the lake although I didn’t take any photos. That said, I did come back a few years later and so the photos of the lake are from the future. From 2026!
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Hiking to the Gertelbach Waterfalls
If the above is not enough reasons to visit the Schwarzwald, then the hike to the Gertelbach Wasserfälle (Waterfalls) will convince you. It was the total opposite to the Mummelsee hike. Much more greener, rockier and, somehow, prettier.
I parked my car in the Bühlertal city (near the Tourist Information), instead of the official Wiedenbach/Gertelbach parking spot, and ended up adding approx. 1.5 hours (5.4km) extra to the original walk of 4km. I must admit, after cycling 80km the previous day, it took me a while to warm up my legs. Who’s idea was it to park so far away??
The walk up to the beginning of the offical hike (Gertelbach Parking spot) seemed long but nice. Once I entered the forest, however, I felt like I was sprinting up the rocky path, following the beautiful water path and waterfalls, to the top of the Gertelbach Waterfalls. I was there in no time, overtaking young and old.
Always stopping to take photos of all the amazing Black Forest!
It was a shame I forgot to pack a little towel, I could have dipped my feet in one of the many spots along the water. Everybody else seemed to do it. Especially the children, they loved it! How refreshing was drinking the cold water though!
This particular hike isn’t really a loop (even though the map might show it), so it is best to go down the same way you came up. You can take it all in once more. I really enjoyed hiking to the Gertelbach Waterfalls and will definitely do it again!
More reasons to visit the Schwarzwald…
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Schloss Staufenberg (Castle)
And then, regardless of what hike you do in the Schwarzwald, there is the time to relax. And for this I have found the perfect spot! Although I have been told I should keep it a secret. Well, if you won’t tell anyone, you should and must visit the wine and bistro at the Staufenberg Castle in Durbach.
The small village Durbach is a stunning and cute town and the local Durbach wine is delicious. Not to mention the breathtaking view from the Staufenberg Castle. Just stunning. And so close to my home. It is needless to say that I have come back to this place on many occasions throughout the years.
There is no better way to finish the day after some outdoor activities. A glass of wine (you won’t find beer on the menu), overlooking the vineyards of Schwarzwald. Especially on a hot summers evening.
So, whether you want to enjoy some local wine, go cycling or explore the hiking trails, there are plenty of reasons to visit the Schwarzwald. Do you agree?
The Black Forest is a truly stunning area, and I can’t wait to explore more of it. It is certainly a wonderful place to be. Until next time!
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