Hidden Gems for the Black Forest

1. Allerheiligen Wasserfall

This circular hike starts at the former Premonstratensian monastery of Kloster Allerheiligen from the 12th century, leading to the wild and romantic Allerheiligen Waterfalls, the highest natural waterfalls in the Black Forest, where the Lierbach river cascades down seven stages for a total of 83 meters. Initially accessed by ladders in the 19th century, the current path with stairs was established in the early 20th century, offering a particularly captivating natural spectacle during high water.

2. Norso

Café Norso brings a touch of Scandinavian charm to the vibrant city of Freiburg, making it a great spot for anyone exploring the Black Forest region. Nestled in the heart of the city, this cozy café is known for its minimalist Nordic design and exceptional selection of specialty coffee and baked goods. From freshly brewed filter coffee to indulgent cinnamon buns, and, often, live music performances that add an extra layer of charm, Café Norso offers a delightful pause from your travels.

3. Marktscheune in Bärental & Feldberg

The Wäldergenuss Marktscheune in Bärental, situated at the base of the Feldberg, is the perfect stop when exploring this highest peak in the Black Forest. Combining fresh, regional produce with a cozy dining experience, this market and restaurant has quickly become a favorite for both tourists and locals. Set above the market floor, the dining area features a warm mix of wood and industrial design, with views of the surrounding forest. Serving up regional favorites like smoked trout, Black Forest ham, and hearty Buurebratwürste, this spot is all about fresh, authentic flavors. After dining, visitors can wander through the market’s selection of local products before heading out to explore the scenic trails and panoramic views of the Feldberg, making for a day filled with nature, culture, and culinary delight.

4. Badenweiler – Cassiopeia Therme

For an authentic Black Forest relaxation experience, Cassiopeia Therme in Badenweiler is a must-experience spot. At this thermal spa, you can immerse yourself in naturally heated mineral waters, surrounded by views of the Black Forest landscape. Cassiopeia offers a variety of thermal pools, steam baths, and a dreamy outdoor area that lets you soak while taking in the serene nature around you. What sets this spa apart are the Roman-Irish bath rituals, designed to bring a deep sense of calm and rejuvenation—a truly unique way to experience thermal bathing.

5. Nonnenmattweiher

Nestled in the southern Black Forest, just a 40-minute drive from Feldberg, Nonnenmattweiher is a picture-perfect lake surrounded by serene spruce trees. The roped-off swimming area is perfect for a refreshing dip, while the rest of the lake, with its protected waters and floating peat island, remains untouched. Enjoy a barbecue or picnic on the shore, or grab a bite at the nearby fishing hut. Don’t miss a stroll around the lake—it’s especially enchanting at sunset when the light casts a magical glow. With scenic hiking trails like Belchengipfel and Rapsfelsen just a short drive away, this tranquil spot is ideal for nature lovers.

6. Baumwipfelpfad

The Treetop Walk in the northern part of the Black Forest is an attraction you cannot miss when you are around the area. Located on the Sommerberg, this beautiful piece of architecture has a length of 1,250 meters and a height of 20 meters. The best part of it is the wooden spiral tower that is about 40 meters tall! This part offers incredible 360 degrees views of the forest. After the unforgettable walk through the Baumwipfelpfad, you can descend in style by taking a slide down from the tower. It is a great place to come with kids, and it has great accessibility for people with wheelchairs.

7. St. Blasien Cathetrale

The St. Blasien Cathedral, located in the Southern Black Forest, is a remarkable structure modeled after the Pantheon in Rome, which accounts for its striking appearance. This former abbey church boasts one of the largest domes in Europe, drawing visitors with its impressive scale. The interior features an all-white dome room adorned with tall columns, creating a majestic atmosphere. Nearby, Café Rosalie offers a charming, relaxing spot, serving quality coffee, cakes, quiches, salads, snacks, and a small beer garden.

8. Erdmannshöhle

Hidden in the quaint town of Hasel, the Erdmannshöhle is one of Germany’s oldest and most captivating dripstone caves. Open from Good Friday to the first Sunday in November, this hidden gem invites visitors to explore 360 meters of its 2,185-meter expanse, featuring breathtaking formations like a towering stalagmite over four meters tall and 135,000 years old. The cave’s name comes from folklore about the mythical Erdmännchen and Erdweibchen, who are said to have lived there. This legend even inspired poet Johann Peter Hebel. Combining natural history with enchanting stories, a visit to Erdmannshöhle promises a one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of the Black Forest.

9. Hirschgrund Zipline

For an adrenaline rush in the Black Forest, don’t miss the Hirschgrund Zipline near Schiltach. This exciting course takes you through the treetops and across a scenic valley in seven thrilling stages. Starting with a walk into the forest, each zipline soars you at speeds of 50-70 km/h, with heights of up to 83 meters, offering stunning views as you zip between wooden platforms. Open from mid-March to the end of autumn, this zipline adventure is closed for the winter months. Participants are securely harnessed and guided for manual braking, with small group walks between stations through the lush forest. The highlight: the Hirschgrund Zipline is immersed in nature, offering breathtaking views of the Black Forest.

10. Sasbachwalden

The picturesque half-timbered village of Sasbachwalden is ideal for a short getaway. Nestled on the slopes of the Hornisgrinde, the highest peak in the Northern Black Forest at 1,163 meters, it offers views over vineyards, the Rhine Valley, and as far as Strasbourg, France. Spanning over 1,000 meters in elevation, the village is dotted with scenic viewpoints, traditional Black Forest houses, and wineries. From sunrise to sunset, the view from Hornisgrinde is stunning, and panoramic trails wind through the vineyards, linking lookout points. Unique highlights include Schnapsbrunnen—fountains offering homemade schnapps for a small fee—and chances to sample local wines.

Vacation rentals in Black Forest