The Black Forest (Schwarzwald in German) is a mountain range in the south-west of Germany, known for its unique landscapes combining immense lakes, pine forests and picturesque villages. This popular destination has everything you could wish for on a motorhome trip!
Discover our 5-day itinerary featuring the must-see places in the Black Forest!
Why visit the Black Forest for your next road trip?
The Black Forest is the largest mountain range in south-west Germany, bordering France and Switzerland, and stretches for around 160 km. You don’t know anything about the Black Forest? Here are a few good reasons to discover this region!
An immersion in nature and the legends of the Grimm brothers.
Since 2017, the Black Forest has been recognised as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO. The region is characterised by its varied landscapes, with dense forests, valleys and lakes. It’s a paradise for hikers, with more than 20,000 km of marked trails, including spectacular gorges such as the Wutach Gorge.
This region has inspired many stories written by the Grimm brothers, as well as other generations of writers after them.
A paradise for thermal spas and wellness.
Germany has a real culture of wellness, and the Black Forest is renowned for its natural springs and historic spa towns. Cities such as Baden-Baden and Bad Wildbad offer modern complexes with Roman baths, saunas and spas for total relaxation after the road.
A rich culture: clockmaking, craftsmanship and traditions.
The region is the birthplace of the cuckoo clock, whose traditional craftsmanship dates back to the 18th century. You’ll also discover traditional costumes, such as the famous red pompom hat (Bollenhut), and a vibrant tradition of wood and glass craftsmanship.
Culinary specialities: the flavours of southern Germany
Gastronomy is a key part of any trip to the Black Forest. The absolute icon is the Black Forest cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte), made with chocolate sponge, cherries, whipped cream and kirsch. But don’t miss:
- Black Forest smoked ham, traditionally smoked over fir wood.
- Maultaschen (stuffed pasta) and Spätzle (local noodles).
- Fresh trout caught in local rivers.
- White wines from the Baden region, such as Riesling or Pinot Gris.
Practical information: driving and parking in Germany
- Wild camping is strictly prohibited in Germany.
- Particulièrement dans les parcs nationaux, réserves naturelles et zones protégées. Les autorités sont très strictes sur ce point. Il est impératif d’utiliser les infrastructures dédiées.
- The KONUS Card: free public transport for travellers
- En séjournant dans un camping ou un hôtel partenaire, vous recevez la carte KONUS. Elle permet d’utiliser gratuitement et en illimité tous les transports en commun de la région, ce qui est idéal pour laisser le camping-car au campement et visiter les centres-villes.
- CaraMaps: find parking areas and service points near you during your trip!
The must-sees of the Black Forest
Découvrez à présent nos recommandations de lieux pour un périple réussi en Forêt Noire !
Day 1 : Baden-Baden, Baden-Baden, the thermal elegance of Germany
Let’s start our Black Forest itinerary in the charming town of Baden-Baden!
It’s the perfect destination if you’re looking for a relaxing break, as the town boasts numerous thermal baths.
🧐 Did you know? Baden-Baden is a world-renowned destination, often described as the “summer capital” of Europe in the 19th century. Located on the northern edge of the Black Forest, it is famous for its Baroque architecture and its spa establishments using natural hot springs.
📸 Not-to-be-missed spots:
- The Caracalla Thermal Baths: a modern 4,000 m² complex offering relaxing baths at different temperatures.
- The Old Town: to admire the Baroque architecture and stroll through elegant boutiques.
- The Lichtentaler Allee: a historic 3 km promenade through parks and botanical gardens.
- The Ridge Road (B500): a scenic route starting in Baden-Baden with spectacular views over the Rhine Valley and into France.
- The Friedrichsbad: a magnificent historic spa combining Roman and Irish bathing traditions.
📍🚍 Where to park your motorhome?
For this first day, we recommend the Baden-Baden Service Area, where you’ll find facilities to empty your motorhome and refill with water. For free parking, head to the Baden-Baden car park!
Day 2: Triberg, between waterfalls and giant cuckoo clocks
For our second day in the beautiful Black Forest region, head to the village of Triberg!
🧐 Did you know? Triberg perfectly embodies the postcard image of the Black Forest. Nestled in a deep valley, it is a hub of local craftsmanship, especially cuckoo clock making. The town is also famous for its waterfalls, the highest in Germany, creating a fairytale atmosphere in the middle of dense pine forests.
📸 Not-to-be-missed spots:
- The Triberg waterfalls: a natural spectacle where the Gutach River cascades down 163 metres over seven levels.
- The world’s largest cuckoo clock: located between Triberg and Schonach, impressive for its monumental size.
- The Black Forest Museum: ideal for discovering traditional costumes, clockmaking history and old trades.
- The House of 1000 Clocks: a unique shop offering an incredible collection of clocks, from classic to modern.
- The Black Forest Railway (Schwarzwaldbahn): a spectacular train line with 39 tunnels crossing the mountains.
📍🚍 Where to park your motorhome?
If you’re passing through Triberg, there are several free parking areas for motorhomes. We recommend stopping off at Parking Triberg, located not far from the famous waterfalls!
Day 3: Lake Titisee and the magic of the High Black Forest
Head to Titisee, where you can enjoy a relaxing break during your Black Forest itinerary!
This is a very popular holiday destination combining lakeside relaxation, water activities and a lively mountain village atmosphere with souvenir shops and cosy cafés.
🧐 Did you know? Lake Titisee is the most famous and emblematic natural lake in the region. Formed by a former glacier, it lies at an altitude of 850 metres in a lush mountain setting. At 2 km long and 700 metres wide, it is the largest natural lake in the Black Forest!
📸 Not-to-be-missed spots:
- The village of Titisee-Neustadt: perfect for enjoying a slice of Black Forest cake on a terrace.
- Lake Titisee: explore by pedalo, boat or on foot for a scenic walk.
- Badeparadies Schwarzwald: an indoor water complex with slides and a palm oasis, perfect whatever the weather.
- The Märklin Museum: for model railway enthusiasts and the history of miniature trains.
📍🚍 Where to park your motorhome?
To make the most of your stay in Titisee, you can stay at Camping Sandbank, benefiting from a lovely view of Lake Titisee! For a free option, you can head to Parking Titisee-Neustadt.
🚐📍 Jour 4 : Todtnau
For this fourth day, let’s head towards Todtnau! A dynamic town focused on adventure, with modern facilities while preserving wild natural sites such as its impressive cliff waterfalls.
🧐 Did you know? Todtnau is a favourite destination for sports and nature lovers at the foot of Feldberg, the highest point in the Black Forest (outside the Alps). Its ski resort regularly hosts Alpine Ski World Cup events.
📸 Not-to-be-missed spots:
- The Todtnau waterfalls: less known than those in Triberg but just as spectacular.
- Hasenhorn Coaster: a nearly 3 km alpine coaster, one of the most fun in Europe.
- Feldberg: the highest peak in the Black Forest (1,493 m), offering views as far as the Swiss Alps.
- Blackforestline: an impressive suspension bridge 120 metres above the waterfalls, stretching 450 metres long.
- Troll Path (Trollpfad): a fun themed hiking trail for families.
📍🚍 Where to park your motorhome?
To make the most of your getaway in Todtnau, head for the Todtnau parking (free), you can also go to the Todtnau Service Area (chargeable), where you can have your motorhome drained.
Day 5: Freiburg im Breisgau, the green and historic capital
We end our itinerary in the lovely city of Freiburg im Breisgau! Known as the “gateway to the Black Forest”, Freiburg is a vibrant university city famous for its sunshine. Its well-preserved medieval centre is known for its small water channels running through the streets.
🧐 Did you know? Freiburg is also a global model for sustainable development, with car-free eco-districts and extensive use of solar energy.
📸 Not-to-be-missed spots:
- Freiburg Cathedral (Münster): a masterpiece of Gothic architecture in red sandstone.
- The Cathedral Market (Münstermarkt): a lively daily market with local products and specialities.
- The Bächle: small medieval canals running through the cobbled streets.
- Schlossberg Tower: accessible by funicular or on foot for panoramic views over the city and vineyards.
- Europa Park: one of the most beautiful theme parks in the world.
- The medieval gates: Martinstor and Schwabentor, remnants of the old city walls.
📍🚍 Where to park your motorhome?
During your getaway to Freiburg im Breisgau, you can park at the Freiburg im Breisgau Service Area, handy for visiting the city! You can also park for free at the Freiburg im Breisgau parking.
Planning to explore the Black Forest by motorhome? Discover our exclusive itinerary here!
You’ll also love this other route in the region!
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