Travel Trend: The Black Forest

When travelers fantasize about visiting the Black Forest, myriad musings come to mind: a magical setting for the Brothers Grimm fairytales, lush landscapes of sky-scraping green trees and a smattering of hillside homes where cuckoo clocks echo through the valleys. Located in southwest Germany near the border of France, the mystical forest exudes a fantasy-like appeal where lovers of all things outdoors come to experience Germany’s nature at its best.

The Black Forest earned its name from the thick pines that coat the region and prevent sunlight from gracing the landscape. Although this was the origin of the region’s name, the forest is now considered one of the sunniest areas in Germany. Bordered by the Rhine River to the east, the forest presents more than 18,000 miles of hiking and biking trails.

Adventurous travelers can spend days or weeks traversing the terrain on foot or, in the winter, by cross-country ski. Water-sport enthusiasts should make a point to visit the lakes of Titisee and Schluchsee where diving, water skiing and wind surfing are among the aquatic options.

Another option for exploring the region is to rent a car and visit the small mountainside towns scattered throughout the forest. Beginning in Baden-Baden, this village is known for its thermal spas and high-brow activities like golf and horse races. Freiburg, a picturesque university town, is home to a towering Gothic cathedral worth a visit. Smaller and lesser-known towns popular among tourists are Altensteig and Freudenstadt, the latter of which surrounds Germany´s largest marketplace.