recommended route
Fischbach to St. Blasien
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Traditional Black Forest FarmsPhoto: Sarah Stone, Macs Adventure
Today the trail leaves behind the gorges of the last few days and the path and views begin to widen. You’ll catch glimpses of the summit of Bildstein; a prominent local peak. On a clear day, you’ll also be able to see the Swiss Alps in the distance.
Arriving at Schluchsee, a beautiful resevoir lake located at 930m above sea level, enjoy a slice of deliciously rich Black Forest gateau at one of the cafés located on the lakeside.
Back on the trail, the section before St. Blasien is arguably one of the most picturesque with views of green valleys and traditional Black Forest houses dotted around the landscape. Arriving at St. Blasien, visit the cathedral of the same name, undoubtedly the cultural highlight of the trail.
Author’s recommendation
Just after Krummenhof at Schluchsee you will start to ascend a hill. Approximately mid-way there is a perfect rest stop with winderful views down to the lake.
Also not to be missed is the viewpoint from Beilstein which offers unbelievable views to Feldberg, over Schluchsee and for the first time to the Swiss Alps.
Safety information
Take care on narrow sections of the path, especially in wet conditions, or in autumn when there are many leaves on the ground. These can become very slippery!Tips and hints
Food available in Fischbach, Seglerhof, Unterkrummen and St. Blasien. Be sure to take a packed lunch and/or snacks, aswell as enough water for the day as there may not always be an appropriate refill point throughout the walk. We recommend carrying at least 2 litres of water per person each day, even more on long or particularly long days.
Points of Interest
Schluchsee
Schluchsee, or Schluch lake, is located at 930m above sea-level, is 7,3km long, 1,4 km wide and its deepest point is 62 metres. It is popular with locals and is used for swimming, sailing and divers. The surrounds are also very popular with hikers, and there are several trails in the area.
St. Blasien Dom
St. Blasien Dom, or cathedral, is not to be missed. The early classical cupola is the largest of its kind north of the Alps. It is 36 metres wide and 62 metres high. The inside of the building is also significant for its religious and art history. Visits possible.
This tour is available on the following itineraries: WSGBFGT
Start
Destination
Turn-by-turn directions
START POINT: Fischbach, Gasthof Hirschen Car Park
From the enchanting mountain village of Oberfischbach, the fourth and (almost) gorge-free stage begins, heading towards St. Blasien. The trail starts from the Gasthof Hirschen car park. Turning left, a path leads past the information board towards a farmhouse. From here, it leads uphill through the forest. The path then takes you up towards Aha-Auerhahn. You’ll then be led up to a remarkable vantage point at the Bildstein (1,134m). From here, the Schluchtensteig trail runs downhill to the right. Not too long afterwards, the Schluchsee will come into sight. On a narrow path, the trail takes you downhill through the splendid forest.
Soon, you’ll reach the railway bridge, which the path leads you under. At the Hotel Auerhahn, head towards the underpass. Taking you under the B500, this path leads directly to the lake. Go past the sail boats, then turn left onto a path that runs alongside the Schluchsee. This route takes you around the delightful Schluchsee shoreline to the Unterkrummenhof, an historic manor that today houses a restaurant. Just before the restaurant, the path leads you into the forest. At the signpost, turn left onto a forest path that will shortly lead you over an old bridge. Continue down this forest trail. Keep going through the forest until the Krummenkreuz hut, which can be used as a place to rest and recharge.
From here, the Schluchtensteig trail leads past the Muchenland farms and some impressive Black Forest farms, too. The route takes you through the forest until the path branches off to the left where you’ll emerge into a beautiful heathland. The paved road will take you through the village of Althütte to a car park. The forest path then takes you into the woods again. From the Windberghütte (hut), you’ll be able to hear the roaring of the Windberg waterfall. Go over the bridge and past this waterfall, down into the gorge. You’ll need to pass more bridges and the stairs that follow. Go over the last bridge and the path will lead you out of the gorge heading towards St. Blasien. The paved road will take you to the right and soon towards the impressive cathedral of St. Blasien.
You’ve arrived at the end of this stage and your day of hiking through the peaceful forests comes to an end at a magnificent park between the banks of the Alb and the cathedral.
FINISH POINT: St. Blasien, Cathedral
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