The Ultimate Black Forest Road Trip Itinerary

The Black Forest (in German Schwarzwald) in southwest Germany is the perfect road trip destination. With its dense evergreen forests, fairy-tale villages, rolling hills, and timeless traditions, it’s no wonder this region inspired the Grimm Brothers for their tales. A road trip through the Black Forest offers the perfect combination of scenic drives, cultural landmarks, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights.

This 4-day Black Forest road trip itinerary is designed to help you make the most of your time in one of Germany’s most enchanting regions. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, savoring slices of Black Forest cake, or winding through panoramic mountain roads, this guide covers it all.

INTERSTING FACTS ABOUT THE BLACK FOREST

If you love fresh mountain air, fairy-tale charm, and trails that wind through lush forests, then the Black Forest should be high in your bucket list destinations. Still not convinced? Then maybe these 6 interesting facts will make you change your mind.

It inspired Fairy Tales. The Brothers Grimm drew inspiration from this dense, mysterious forest for classic stories like Hansel and Gretel. Yep, those dark woods? It was righ here!
Did you know the Black Forest is the birthplace of teh cuckoo clock? It was first crafted in this region in the 1700s. During your road trip, you will see some of the most intricate and largest cuckoo clocks in the world.
There are trails for days (and days). There are over 24,000 kilometers of marked hiking trails. There’s something for every kind of hiker, from gentle valley walks to ridge-top treks with panoramic views.
Black Forest Cake is a local delicacy. Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, the decaden cherry-chocolate-cream layer cake, actually comes from here. It’s the perfect indulgence after a day of hiking!
It’s not actually black. The name “Black Forest” comes from the canopy of dense pine treest that block out much of the sunlight, giving the woods a dark, moody vibe.

GETTING TO THE BLACK FOREST

The Black Forest is located in southwestern Germany, in the state of Baden-Württemberg, near the borders with France and Switzerland.

✈️ GETTING TO THE BLACK FOREST BY AIR

The closest major airports to this region are:

EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL/MLH/EAP): About 1 hour driving to Freiburg.
Stuttgart Airport (STR): About 1,5 to 2 hours driving to Baden-Baden.
Strasbourg Airport (SXB): About 1 hours driving to Baden-Baden or Freiburg.

Important: Strasbourg Airport and Basel Airport are located in France. If you land in one of these two airports and you rent a car, make sure you are allowed to cross the German border with it.

🚗 DRIVING TO THE BLACK FOREST

No matter in which of the three above airports you land, you will have to rent a car and drive to the Black Forest. Remember this is supposed to be a road trip!

The driving times will depend on where you land, but it should be approximately 1 hour.

In our case, we decided to drive directly from Belgium to the Black Forest. The drive took us 5 hours. It is supposed to be a bit less, but we got caught in some traffic jams.

THE ULTIMATE BLACK FOREST ROAD TRIP: A PERFECT 5-DAY ITINERARY

Here’s an overview of my Black Forest Road Trip Itinerary. This itinerary can be done in both senses, you can either begin at Baden-Baden and finish your road trip in Freiburg, or you can do it the other way around.

DAY 1 - DRIVE TO BADEN-BADEN

Route: From Brussels to Baden-Baden (Distance: 477 km; Driving time: 5 hours 30 minutes)

Hotel: Leonardo Royal Hotel Baden-Baden

The first day of the trip is all about reaching Baden-Baden. You will most probably be getting there by plane + car. Take your time, and enjoy the journey. It is also part of traveling!

In our case, we drove directly from Belgium to Baden-Baden and it took us a bit over 5 hours to get there, due to many roadworks and their consequent traffic jams.

STOP 1: EXPLORE BADEN-BADEN

Depending on when you get to Baden-Baden, you might have some time to explore this elegant spa town. Baden-Baden is known for its thermal baths, art nouveau architecture, and leafy parks. Stroll through the Lichtentaler Allee, visit the Carcalla Therme or Friedrichsbad, and fuel up with a hearty German dinner.

DAY 2 - BADEN-BADEN TO BAIERSBRONN

Route: From Baden-Baden to Baiersbronn (Distance: 69 km; Driving time: 1 hour 37 minutes)

Hotel: Rechtmurg 27

STOP 1: HOHENBADEN CASTLE RUINS

Located near Baden-Baden, you will find Hohenbaden Castle, or the Old Castle (Altes Schloss). This castle ruins are a hidden gem for people who like a perfect blend of medieval charm, panoramic views, and nature. A visit to this castle will allow you to see crumbling towers, ancient stone walls, and sweeping vistas over the Rhine Valley.

To reach this beautiful castle you can either drive up directly to the castle or do a short hike uphill from Baden-Baden. In our case, we chose to drive there since we had planned a few other hikes for that day.

No matter which option you choose, this castle is the perfect way to begin your Black Forest Road Trip.

STOP 2: ALT EBERSTEIN CASTLE RUINS

Alt Eberstein Castle is another castle ruin worth visiting, not far from Baden-Baden. The castle was originally built in the 11th century as a home to the Counts of Eberstein on top of a hill. From the castle, you also get breathtaking panoramic views over the Rhine Valley below.

Same as with the previous castle, to reach it, you can either drive directly to the castle or go on a hike through the woods. We were planning on just driving to the castle and exploring the views, but the road that led to the castle was closed due to an open-air market.

STOP 3: GEROLDSAUER WATERFALL

After visiting these two castles, it is time to start driving the Black Forest High Road. The road winds through lush forests and mid-mountain tops with plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the scenic views.

The first stop we will make along the way is at Geroldsauer Waterfall. To reach it, you will have to do a gentle 3,1 km hike along the Grobbach stream. The trail is quite peaceful with the soft noise of the water flowing.

The waterfall, though not too big, is quite special. The water cascades about 6 meters down mossy rocks, into a small pool. It is the perfect place to sit down next to the water and relax while you enjoy the view.

STOP 4: WIEDENFELSEN VIEWPOINT AND GERTELBACH WATERFALL

After this short hike, continue driving south on the Black Forest Road to a Wiedenfelsen viewpoint, near Bülh. Before you go on your next short hike, you can have a Flammkuchen for lunch. There is a food truck with a nice terrace where you can get them next to the parking lot.

A short walk uphill from the parking lot, you will reach Wiedenfelsen viewpoint. From here you will get sweeping views over the Rhine Valley and the Vosges mountains in the distance.

Once you’re done admiring the views, instead of returning to the car, keep following the trail downhill until you reach Gertelbach waterfall. The trail follows a lively stream that tumbles down a series of small, foamy waterfalls, creating a beautiful atmosphere through the forest.

STOP 5: MUMMELSEE AND HORNISGRINDE

Mummelsee is a very popular stop along the Black Forest High Road. It is a small glacial lake surrounded by dense forest, and located at 1,036 meters above sea level. There is a scenic trail circling the lake, perfect for a relaxing stroll, and a lakeside café where you can relax and admire the scenery.

If you’re up for a bit more adventure, the hike from Mummelsee to the Hornisgrinde, the highest peak in the northern Black Forest, is an absolute must. The trail is well-marked and not too long (6,6 km in total), and it rewards you with breathtaking views from the summit. The plateau at the top is stunning, with moor landscapes, wind turbines, and wide-open sky that makes you feel like you’re on top of the world.

STOP 6: DINNER AT BAIERSBRONN

Finish your day by having dinner at Baiersbronn. There are plenty of restaurants where you can choose to have dinner, but I would recommend you go to the one we went to, Flosser-Schanke. They barely spoke any English, but the food was delicious. We had Maultaschen, German-style ravioli with meat or veggie fillings. We had them served in two different ways, and they were both fantastic.

DAY 3 - BAIERSBRONN TO GENGENBACH

Route: From Baiersbronn to Gengenbach (Distance: 127 km; Driving time: 2 hours 32 minutes)

Hotel: Hotel Rebstock

STOP 1: KLOSTERRUINE ALLERHEILIGEN

Begin your third day in the Black Forest by visiting the Klosterruine Allerheiligen (in English, “All Saints Monastery Ruins“). These romantic ruins of a 12th-century monastery sit high above the town of Oppenau, framed by green hills and dense woodland. The sandstone arches and standing walls give you just enough to imagine what life here might have been centuries ago, when monks lived and worked in this quiet valley.

They sure are a beautiful way to start your day. Especially if you arrive early, you’ll have the monastery ruins all for yourself.

STOP 2: ALLERHEILIGEN waterfall

Not far from the monastery ruins, you will find the Allerheiligen Waterfalls, a series of seven cascades tumbling through a narrow gorge.

There is a well-marked trail that connects the monastery ruins and the waterfalls, so if you’re feeling up for a bit of walking, you can do a very scenic short hike. In our case, since we had planned for another hike later on the day, we decided not to do the hike and drive to the waterfalls.

STOP 3: KLOSTERLE SCHLEIFE HIKE

The third stop of the day is a beautiful and not too demanding, the Klósterle Schleife. The hike starts near Bad Rippoldsau-Schapbach village and takes you through cool forest paths, lush meadows, and past the Klösterle, a small former monastery that gives the name to this trail.

Still not convinced? What if i told you, this trail also brings you to the Burgbach Waterfall? This waterfall is one of the highest free-falling waterfalls in Germany. Surrounded by towering rock walls and a carpet of moss and ferns, the Burgbach cascades nearly 32 meters in a dramatic, narrow plunge.

This trail was absolute highlight of my visit to the Black Forest. We loved how varied it was and it was not too demanding. It was the perfect activity for half a day in the area.

STOP 4: SCHILTACH

Schiltach is a charming village in center of the Black Florest. Located in the Kinzig Vallye, it’s surrounded by the rolling hills and deep woods of the Black Forest, with a river winding right through town. The historic center is a delight to wander: cobbled streets, colorful half-timbered houses, and little squares that always seem to invite you to sit for a while.

Schiltach is the perfect village to explore after you hike. Just wander around it without any clear destination and let yourself discover its beauty.

While in Schiltach make sure to stop at Cafe Bachbeck Konditorei for a coffee and a piece of Black Forest Cake. You can’t visit the Black Forest and not indulge in it!

STOP 5: GENGENBACH

Finish your day by visiting Gengenbach, with its timeless beauty. The heart of the old town, or Altstadt, is a maze of cobbled lanes lined with half-timbered and colorful houses, each one seemingly competing to be more picturesque than the next.

Rising above the rooftops is St. Marien Church, a striking landmark that adds to Gengenbach’s charm. Its tower, visible from afar, guides you toward its peaceful and colorful interior.

For dinner, I recommend you eat at Restaurant Namaste Bawis, a delicious indian restaurant.

DAY 4 - GENGENBACH TO FREIBURG

Route: From Gengenbach to Freiburg (Distance: 161 km; Driving time: 2hours 58 minutes)

Hotel: Premier Inn Freiburg City Sud

STOP 1: TRIBERG - WORLD'S LARGEST CUCKOO CLOCK

Triberg is a charming little town famous for its cuckoo clocks. Strolling through the center you’ll quickly notice how much the locals celebrate their clockmaking heritage. Shop windows are filled with intricately carved cuckoo clocks, each more detailed than the previous ones. This is the perfect place to get a special souvenir from the Black Forest, just don’t be shocked by the price. Cuckoo clocks are not cheap!

However, the star attraction in Triberg is the world’s largest cuckoo clock. Visitors gather to watch the oversized bird pop out and sing its tune. Being completely honest, I was a bit disappointed by the world’s largest cuckoo clock. It is big and pretty, but found some other giant cuckoo clocks in the area prettier than this one. Nevertheless, visiting the largest cuckoo clock is completely free (unless you want to see it from the inside and what its internal mechanisms), so I still recommend you do a quick stop here.

World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock

STOP 2: TRIBERG WATERFALLS

While you’re in Triberg, don’t forget to check out as well its famous waterfalls. They are the tallest in Germany! Cascading down in seven beautiful tiers, the Triberg Waterfalls are a breathtaking sight and a refreshing escape on a summer day. The paths around the falls are easy to follow and they have been adapted so that people with mobility issues or families with babies can visit them. However, this also means more people!

Being completely honest, we were a bit disappointed with these waterfalls. Yes, they are beautiful, but the site was quite crowded which removed a bit of its charm. We even had to wait in line to get our access tickets. If you’re planning on visiting them, I would recommend getting there as soon as they open to beat the crowds.

Practical information

Price: Access to the Triberg Waterfalls costs 6 per person.
Opening hours. You can visit the waterfalls between 9:00 and 22:00.

STOP 3: RAVENNA GORGE

Our next stop was the Ravenna Gorge were we did a short hike along it. The hike begins next to the Ravenna Viaduct, a huge railway bridge that crosses the valley. Next to it, you will also find a big cuckoo clock.

Hiking through the gorge is a nice little adventure. You will be crossing wooden bridges and walking next to steep, forested cliffs that rise dramatically around the rushing stream. Along the way, you will come across small waterfalls which even though are not the most impressive in the Black Forest, they are still quite nice to see.

STOP 4: TODTNAUER WATERFALL

The Todtnauer Waterfall was my favorite waterfall in the Black Forest! Located between Todtnauberg and Aftersteg, this beauty plunges nearly 100 meters down rugged rocks, making it one of the most impressive natural sights in the region.

To reach it, you will have to do a short hike uphill from Todnau but your effort will be rewarded with this impressive waterfall. Next to it, there are some really comfortable chairs where you can just relax and enlessly watch the waterfall.

After your hike, make sure to visit St. Johannes der Taufer church in Todtnau.

Finish your day by driving to Freiburg im Breisgau where you will spend the last night of your road trip.

DAY 5 - FREIBURG AND RETURN HOME

Route: From Freiburg to Brussels (Distance: 517 km; Driving time: 5hours 16 minutes)

On the last day, you will explore the city of Freiburg im Breisgau, the most important city in the Black Forest. Here I will just mention the most important sites to visit in the city, but if you want to know all there is to do and visit in Freiburg, make sure to read my blog about the best things to do in Freiburg.

STOP 1: FREIBURG MINSTER

Our visit to Freiburg begins with the Freiburg Minster. This Gothic masterpice is the city’s crown jewel, and for good reason. It’s soaring spire is often called “the most beautiful tower in all Christianity” and has been watcthing over Freiburg since the 14th century. As you approach it, the intricate details carved into the stone façade tell stories of the Bible, history, and folklore. And if you’re here int he mroning, you’ll get the added treat of strolling through the bustling farmer’s market that it is held on the square.

If you’re feeling up to some exercise, make sure to climb up the 333 steps that bring you to the top of the bell tower. You’ll be rewarded with beatiful views of the Black Forest, the Rhine Valley, and if you’re lucky, on a clear day, even the Vosges mountains in France.

STOP 2: SCHLOSSBERG TOWER PARK

After exploring Freiburg’s old town, head to Schlossberg Park to get sweeping views over Freiburg. To reach it, you will have to do some uphill walking, or if you don’t feel like it, just take the funicular.

It is the perfect way to end your Black Forest Road Trip, relaxing in the park with beautiful views over the area.

ACCOMMODATION IN THE BLACK FOREST

Here’s a summary of the different hotels we stayed at during our Black Forest Road Trip. Since we planned this trip at the last minute, the accommodation we chose was what was available, but in general, we were quite happy with the places we stayed at.

Baden-Baden - Leonardo Royal Hotel Baden-Baden

This comfortable hotel is conviniently located just 200 metres from the famous Lichtentaler Allee avenue. The rooms are spacious and have a balcony with views to the Black Forest. Additionally, this hotel also has an indoor swimming pool to relax after a day of visiting.

Photos from Booking.com

Baiersbronn - Rechtmurg 27

This hotel was my favorite of the whole road trip, it was so comfortable and peaceful. The rooms were very spacious and comfortable had a beautiful terrace with views. Breakfast was also delicious! Would have loved to stay here a bit longer.

Ohlsbach - Hotel Rebstock

Hotel Rebstock is a family-run hotel located in Ohlsbach, very close to the town of Gengenbach. All rooms have comfortable beds and a balcony. The breakfast buffet even though is not huge, has everything you may need.

Freiburg am Breisgau - Premier Inn Freiburg City Sud

The Premier Inn Freiburg City Sud is the perfect hotel if you have a car. The hotel is conveniently located less than 1km away from the city center and offers a private parking where you can leave your car while you explore the city. The bedrooms are very comfortable and clean and the breakfast buffet is just delicious.

WHAT TO EAT IN THE BLACK FOREST - REGIONAL FOOD HIGHLIGHTS

One of the best things about traveling and visiting new places is discovering their cuisine and traditional dishes. Don’t leave the Black Forest without trying:

Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte: The iconic Black Forest Cake.
Schäufele: Smoked pork shoulder, often served with sauerkraut.
Maultaschen: German-style ravioli with meat or veggie fillings.
Käsespätzle. Cheesy egg noodles topped with crispy onions.

OTHER HELPFUL TIPS

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The Black Forest can be visited all year round but the activities you’ll get to do will vary depending on the season.

If you’re looking to do some hiking and enjoy it’s natural sites, then I would recommend you visit between late May and early October. In particular, if you want to avoid the crowds, I recommend you avoid July and August. I was there at the end of May and had a fantastic time.

On the other side, if you want to focus mainly on the Black Forest charming little towns and cities, winter might be a good idea. As of mid November, the Christmas Markets are open, giving the city a charming atmosphere.

WATCH OUT FOR TICKS

he Black Forest is a dream for hikers but like many natural areas in Europe, it does come with a small but importan risk: ticks. These tiny critters thrive in grassy meadows, shady undergrowth, and forest edges, and unfortunately, in this area some of them carry Lyme disease. While the chances of infection are relatively low, it’s worth being aware and taking precautions, especially if you’re planning long hikes or picnics in the countryside. A little prevention goes a long way towards keeping your trip carefree and enjoyable. Trust me, I know a bit about this because I got bit by one during my Black Forest Road Trip.

Here are some general recommendations that can help you minimize the risk:

Stick to marked trails where the grass is shorter and less likely to harbor ticks.
Wear long, light-colored clothing so you can spot them more easily.
Consider tucking your pants into your socks. I know it is not the most fashionable look, but it does help.
Insect repellent on the shoes and exposed skin also helps.
After a day outdoors, do a quick tick check, particularly behind the knees, around the waistline, and in the hairline (this is where I got bit).

If you do find a tick, remove it promptly with fine-tipped tweezers, not pulling but twisting. Make sure you have remove it completely and there is not part of if left behind. If you’re not sure, don’t panic, just go to a hospital or a doctor and have it examined by a professional.

MAP WITH ALL LOCATIONS

Here you can find the map with all the places I visited during my Black Forest Road Trip. Each day is marked with a different color to help you group the activities by day.

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Click the star next to the map title to add this map to your google maps account. To view it on your phone while traveling, open Google Maps, click on the menu button and go to “Your Places”, click on Maps and you’ll see this map in your list.

CONCLUSION

A road trip through the Black Forest offers a good mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. You will enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Black Forest high road as well as the charm of the smaller towns like Gengenbach making it an unforgettable vacation.

Do you still have any questions? Do you have your own tips? Share them in the comments!

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