The Black Forest, or Schwarzwald, is a stunningly beautiful region in southwestern Germany, known for its dense forests, picturesque villages, and breathtaking views. If you're looking for the best scenic drives through the Black Forest, you're in for a treat. Below are some of the most scenic routes that offer a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure.
The Black Forest High Road is perhaps the most famous scenic drive in the region. Stretching approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Baden-Baden to Freudenstadt, this route offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of viewpoints and hiking trails, as well as charming towns like Mummelsee and Sankt Peter.
The B500, also known as the Schwarzwaldstraße, is another amazing driving route that runs parallel to the High Road. This highway takes you through lush green forests, past idyllic lakes, and quaint villages like Gernsbach and Bad Herrenalb. The B500 offers multiple opportunities to stop and experience local culture, whether it’s sampling Black Forest cake at a bakery or exploring historical sites.
The Kinzig Valley is one of the lesser-known scenic drives but equally mesmerizing. This route traces the Kinzig River and takes you through charming villages such as Wolfach, Haslach, and Schiltach. Each of these towns boasts traditional Black Forest architecture and is perfect for a leisurely lunch stop or a short walk. The lush valley is particularly stunning in spring and summer when the flowers are in full bloom.
This scenic drive takes you through the serene landscape of the Southern Black Forest, offering beautiful vistas and outdoor activities. You can start in the spa town of Bad Säckingen and make your way to the Feldberg, the highest mountain in the Black Forest. Along this route, you'll find several hiking trails, opportunities for skiing in winter, and delightful fairytale-like villages.
The Murgtal Valley Drive offers a relaxed and scenic route along the Murgtal River. This drive is particularly enchanting in autumn, when the leaves turn vibrant colors. Starting from Gernsbach, you can travel to Forbach, stopping at various viewpoints and historical sites along the way. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the ruins of the ancient castle, Yburg, which provides an excellent overview of the valley below.
For coffee lovers, the Schwarzwald Kaffee Route is a must-try. This unique driving route takes you through coffee-growing areas and includes stops at various cafés and chocolate factories. You can delight in traditional Black Forest cake while enjoying the scenic views of rolling hills and lush landscapes. The towns of Triberg and Titisee-Neustadt are perfect pit stops to sample the local treats.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, the scenic drives through the Black Forest offer something for everyone. Each route showcases the region's stunning landscapes and rich culture. Prepare your vehicle, pack some snacks, and hit the road for an unforgettable adventure through this magical part of Germany.
Make sure to take your time on these drives, as the charm of the Black Forest is best explored at a leisurely pace.