The Black Forest

Discover Europe in just a few hours? Europa Park makes it possible! With great attention to detail, 18 European countries have been recreated in various themed areas. Germany's largest theme park has already been named the best in the world several times. In addition to the spectacular roller coasters such as Silver Star and Blue Fire, numerous shows round off the offer and those who want to stay for several days can choose from six hotels, each with a different theme. 

Since 2019, another highlight has been located near Europa Park: the Rulantica water park, which is open all year round. The 13 themed areas with 30 slides and 3 saunas have a connection to the Scandinavian world of sagas and fables. Those seeking peace and quiet will find relaxation in the Hyggedal sauna area. The associated hotel Krønasår with almost 1,300 beds is furnished in the style of a Nordic natural history museum. 

In addition to the popular long-distance hiking trails such as the Westweg or Schluchtensteig, the many leisure trails in the Black Forest entice hikers to take spectacular hikes through forests, meadows and valleys. In the process, you can explore many a scenic hut, waterfall and impressive natural landscape. All of the connoisseur trails are certified as premium trails and thus promise hiking experiences of the highest quality.

More than 70 peaks rise above the 1000 m mark and thus offer real challenges for mountain bikers or road cyclists. Cycling is more leisurely on the circular routes in the Upper Rhine Valley. With an e-bike, you can easily reach destinations that would otherwise require a lot of physical fitness. Thus, no one has to miss out on the magnificent panoramic views from the Black Forest heights. Selected bike paths for families, such as the Kinzigtal Cycle Path, are particularly suitable for a family trip to the Black Forest due to low gradients, accompanying rail connections and adventure and play opportunities along the way. 

In the Black Forest you can enjoy not only the green, but also the white. In winter, ski resorts, kilometers of cross-country ski trails, snowshoe hikes and specially designated winter hiking trails invite you to have fun in the snow. Around the Feldberg, at 1,277 meters the highest elevation of the low mountain range, is the largest winter sports center in the Black Forest. Families will find numerous family-friendly offers here with their own children's restaurant, a children's carpet lift and a ski kindergarten. 

The dishes of Baden's restaurateurs are creative and varied. Year after year, the gourmet guides recommend almost 400 addresses in the region. This is where you can enjoy the sophistication of Baden cuisine with its Alsatian, Swabian and Swiss influences. In addition to the regional beers and mineral waters, Baden wines contribute to the experience. Whether Ortenau, Breisgau, Tuniberg, Kaiserstuhl or Markgräfler Land - almost every major Black Forest vineyard is known for award-winning wines.

Who doesn't know the Bollen hat? The traditional straw hat with its woolen pollen stands today as a distinctive mark for Baden-Württemberg. Almost forgotten, it was rediscovered through the efforts of Emma Falk. Today, despite its rather small distribution area, it is a symbol for the Black Forest. If you want to trace this tradition - there are numerous museums and trails that will show you the way.