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Located in the south-western part of Germany, the Black Forest is an area that is sure to appeal to nature lovers, with its dense forests, mountains and rich biodiversity. There are countless bucolic trails to enjoy this exceptional natural environment, just a stone's throw from Strasbourg and the French border. In winter, the Black Forest becomes a veritable white paradise, and the woods and mountains are ideal for a multitude of activities, from hiking to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. But the Black Forest is also home to picturesque villages, towns well worth a visit, gastronomy, the wine route and thermal baths. It's the perfect place for a winter vacation, and a destination for all kinds of pleasures. Here are 10 must-see places to visit in winter in the Black Forest.
1- The Black Forest highlands
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Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy ideal conditions by packing their suitcases in the Black Forest highlands, where there are 80 km of slopes and some 60 ski lifts. The highest peak in Baden-Württemberg is located next to the Feldberg resort, in the district of Brisgau-Haute-Forêt-Noire. It's here that a large ski area caters for lovers of mountain sports and activities: downhill skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing and more. For those who prefer to take a leisurely stroll and contemplate the scenery, remember to keep your eyes wide open! On a clear day, you'll enjoy exceptional views of the Rhine Valley and the Alps.
What to book: Stroll through the Black Forest in winter, guided through some of the most magical parts of one of Germany's most renowned national parks , by booking this snowshoe tour from Feldberg.
2- What to do in winter in the Black Forest? Freudenstadt, another ski paradise
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The town of Freudenstadt is only 60 km from Strasbourg, making it easy to enjoy winter sports while crossing a border. In the heart of the town, there are many lovely walks to take in the local architecture, go shopping, visit the market square, the largest in Germany, and of course, end up warming up with a good meal in a restaurant. Just outside the city, the Kniebis ski area boasts 70 km of powdery slopes. Special mention for cross-country skiers, who benefit from optimal conditions!
Did you know? The Black Forest is one of our top 10 green destinations in Europe!
3- Freiburg im Breisgau, capital of the Black Forest
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What to do in winter in the Black Forest? If you're looking for a dynamic city with a wealth of treasures in the heart of the Black Forest, there's no better place to visit than beautiful Freiburg, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Germany. Here, you'll discover a charming medieval center filled with exceptional monuments, such as the "Martinstor" gate, built in 1202. We also stop off to see Notre-Dame Cathedral, with its splendid Gothic architecture and 116-metre-high spire. From Freiburg, the Schauinsland cable car takes you up to nature in just a few minutes. Once you've reached the top and taken the time to contemplate the panoramic views of the Alps, Vosges and Rhine Valley, in winter you can enjoy exhilarating skiing and snowboarding sessions. In the evening, don't miss out on the festive atmosphere of the town's brasseries.
To book : looking for an original way to visit Freiburg? We recommend this gastronomic self-guided tour: you'll taste the region's typical snacks in their original setting as you visit various establishments around town.
Read more: What to do and see in Freiburg im Breisgau 11 must-sees
4- Bad Dürrheim: temple of thermalism
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What to do in winter in the Black Forest? Located on the Baar Plateau, Bad Dürrheim is the perfect place to pamper yourself and reconnect with what's essential. Bearing the titles of "spa" and "health resort", it is home to the unmissable Solemar Center, offering water attractions and cabins where you can enjoy the warmth, not to mention the incredible Dead Sea Salt Grotto. Bad Dürrheim is not only a peaceful city, but also a natural gateway to a wide range of hiking and biking trails. The Baar Plateau is a most pleasant natural environment with its hilly landscapes, and the Black Forest is always ready to welcome those who wish to fill their lungs with fresh air.
Read more: 11 UNESCO-listed spa towns in Europe to warm up in autumn
5- What to do in winter in the Black Forest? Karlsruhe, a dynamic city
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Karlsruhe offers an ideal setting for slowing down and enjoying the pleasures of life. The city's fan-shaped streets are lined with boutiques where you can indulge in a spot of shopping. There are also many museums, galleries and theaters. Cultural life in Karlsruhe is always vibrant, with many events taking place throughout the year. In the evenings, cafés and restaurants abound with locals and visitors alike enjoying a glass of wine and a generous helping of fine food. Of course, you can't miss the imposing yellow Baroque castle with its sumptuous gardens. In winter and summer alike, the neighboring Oberwald forest offers a beautiful setting for walking, cycling and enjoying nature to the full.
Read more : Culture, nature, gastronomy and much more in Karlsruhe
6- What to do in winter in the Black Forest? Follow the Baden wine route
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In winter, epicureans at heart can head to Germany for the superb Baden Wine Route. Stretching along the western edge of the Black Forest, the route offers breathtaking panoramas of forest and snow-covered valleys. There are also a number of stop-offs in historic villages. The wine route also includes contact with winegrowers who work the grapes under optimal conditions. In return, they offer tastings of some of Germany's finest wines. In winter, ice wine is a must. The grapes are harvested in the early hours of the morning under freezing conditions, giving life to succulent, sweet, fruity and rare wines!
Read more: 10 ideal destinations for a romantic weekend in Europe
7- The Black Forest Peak Trail
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What to do in winter in the Black Forest? The Black Forest promises some unique activities, and the Peak Trail is one of them. In Bad Wildbad, after a classic Black Forest hike, you'll discover this incredible spiral wooden footbridge that rises 20 m above the ground. In winter, the walkway offers the experience of walking high above snow-covered fir, beech and spruce trees. The highest point is the panoramic tower, offering an exceptional view of the forest from 40 m above. There's also a tunnel slide for young and old alike, for a vertiginous 55 m descent.
8- The Triberg waterfalls, jewels of nature
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In the heart of the Black Forest, the Triberg waterfalls tumble down 7 levels. Located above the eponymous village, they are 163 m high. Several footpaths have been set up in the vicinity to enjoy the enchanting setting and the breathtaking spectacle of the falls. However, take care when using the observation platform, which can be very slippery on the coldest days. For those who wish to contemplate this natural spectacle in an even more impressive way: go just after days of heavy rainor in early spring during the melt periods.
9- What to do in winter in the Black Forest? Visit Calw and its medieval houses
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The town of Calw is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the Black Forest. Nestled in the Nagold pine valley, the town center boasts rows of medieval half-timbered houses, making for a highly romantic setting for a romantic getaway. In addition to monuments, restaurants and brasseries, there'sa museum dedicated to the works of Hermann Hesse, the local German author who had the honor of winning a Nobel Prize. Also not to be missed are the ruins of the Hirsau monastery, built in the 11th century. Around Calw, a multitude of hikes await walkers in the northern Black Forest.
10- Baiersbronn and the Murg valley
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What to do in winter in the Black Forest? Baiersbronn offers a dream setting for a winter vacation. It's the perfect place to plan hikes and enjoy some of the best views of the vast Black Forest. Covered in a thick blanket of white in the cold season, the Murg Valley is a prime location for snow sports. In the evening, there's nothing like heading to a restaurant to sample a variety of high-quality, modern and international cuisine. Baiersbronn boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants. The village is also surrounded by several crystal-clear lakes, and the locals will be happy to point out the most beautiful paths to admire them.
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