Home of the cuckoo clocks and the delicious berry-infused gateaux, as well as ski resorts and beautiful lakes, the region of the Black Forest is a fascinating place to explore no matter the time of year. To get you inspired for your drive down to this magnificent region of Germany, we've put together a guide on how you and your family can make the most of your time there. From hitting the rides at Europa park, to learning about the region's enchanting culture, there's so much to do in this beautiful part of the world.
Where to stay
Whether you choose to stay at the top of one of the many valleys, or deep within the trees, there are plenty of places to stay in the enchanting Black Forest.
During the summer months, one of the best ways to enjoy your time there is to set up camp. Located in the midst of the forest is Muellerwiese, a camping park that has around 75 camping pitches, caravan spots and log cabins, which overlook the River Enz. Situated within the town of Enzklösterle, this camping park also provides ample opportunity to peruse the town's bakery and butcher shop, as well as dine out at the local restaurants and bars.
For somewhere a little more indulgent, book a room at the Maritim Titisee Hotel, a welcoming place that's located on the shores of Lake Titisee. On top of the magnificent views of the forest and lake, the hotel also has an onsite bar and restaurant, as well as a kids club for your little ones and a bowling alley for when you fancy an evening in.
Lake Titisee.
What to do and see
Although Hiking through the breathtakingly beautiful Black Forest, spotting red squirrels and watching eagles fly is a delight in itself, there's so much more to this part of Germany. Here's what else you and your family can look forward to.
Lake Schluchsee
At 500-hectares, Schluchsee is the biggest lake in the Black Forest, and a great place to take part in water sports during the warmer months. Dive in for a refreshing swim, or relax on the sandy banks while the kids build sandcastles. As previously mentioned, another great lake, but slightly smaller, is Titisee, where you can rent boats and sail past the vast forest, or take to the waves and learn to surf.
To ensure you don't miss out on the water fun during the winter, head over to Badeparadies, a waterpark that offers both indoor and outdoor heated pools and slides for your family to enjoy.
Europa Park
Located in the town of Rust is Europa Park, a fantastic theme park that you and your family will love. If you enjoy water rides, try out the Atlantica Supersplash, or get a taste of Ancient Greece with the high-flying Pegasus rollercoaster. The thrill-seekers amongst you can get your adrenaline pumping on board the Silver Star; a ride full of twists, turns and heights.
On top of the rides, there are many Black Forest-themed experiences you and your kids can get involved with. Tip toe around the witch's ginger bread house from Hansel and Gretel, or pop by the Grimm Library to take part in an interactive story.
Feldberg Ski Resort
As well as being a great place for summer sun, the valleys and hills of the Black Forest combined with the 110 days of guaranteed snow, make it the perfect skiing destination. The Feldberg ski resort is the highest mountain in the forest, and provides skiers with 31 lift services, and 55-kilometres of ski and snowboard pistes. The resort includes blue slopes for beginners and kids, as well as black FIS World Cup runs, which are designed for those of you looking for a challenge.
Schwarzwald Museum
Delve into fascinating history and culture of the Black Forest, with a trip to the Schwarzwald Museum. Wander around this charming collection of old artefacts and crafts, such as cuckoo clocks that were made over four centuries ago, glassworks, intricate wood carvings and local costumes.
After you've explored the beautiful crafts from the past, be sure to enjoy a meal at the museum's café, where you can dig into a bowl of traditional Flädlesuppe, a beef broth with slices of pancake, and finish with a slice of the original Black Forest cake.
Delicious Fruits of the Forest cheesecake.
Vogtsbauernhof
If a visit to the Schwarzwald Museum kick-started your interest in this region's interesting past, finish your Black Forest trip with a wander around Vogtsbauernhof, the Black Forest Open Air Museum. Get to grips with how life was in the past, by watching regular demonstrations of various skills, such as bread making in the onsite bakery, clock making and weaving, all using the tools from the 17th century. Aside from the demonstrations, the museum also has a range of buildings you can explore, as well as charming herb and vegetable gardens.
Great places to eat
The Black Forest has the most Michelin stars than anywhere else in the country, so there's a fantastic choice of great restaurants. If you want to treat your family to a three Michelin star meal, head over to Schwarzwaldstube, a quality restaurant that's run by top chef, Harald Wohlfahrt. Working together with the restaurant's sommelier, Stéphane Gass, Harald has created beautiful dishes that work perfectly with the wine. Dig into delicately cooked mallet with lemon, or sample local meats, such as marinated breast of duck and veal medallions.
For somewhere slightly more casual, head to Freiburg's Burger Chalet, a gourmet burger and chips joint. Staff will ask how you like you meat cooked, and what toppings you want, before serving it up with a side order of salty fries and an ice cold drink of your choice. It's perfect for when you and your family are in need of a recharge, after a long hike through the forest.
Classic dishes of the Black Forest.
Inspired to make the journey to Germany's Black Forest for your next family holiday? It may take around six hours to drive from Calais to the forest, but with the journey between England and France only taking 35-minutes with LeShuttle you'll be there in no time at all.