I am guessing we are all guilty of it…as we are nearing the 4th quarter of the work year, looking over our time off, we are figuring out what is left in terms of days off for the rest of the year. We hop onto Google, looking for places to go on the next adventure, staring out the window (for more time than we wish to divulge), daydreaming of what’s to come. Don’t deny it, you have done it right? Well, I was just doing this the other day, and I discovered a great new place I’d like to use those remaining days off, that’s now not only in my daydreams, but has been added to my travel bucket list. I’ll give you a hint – even in my day dreams, it’s “dark.” So, let me indulge you and give you a new place to daydream about as well, and as you plan out your next adventure and use up that PTO, maybe you’ll find yourself on the next flight to Germany (another hint!).

Read this description, pulled from Google, and see how your’re feeling: “The Black Forest is a mountainous region in southwest Germany, bordering France. Known for its dense, evergreen forests and picturesque villages, it is often associated with the Brothers Grimm fairy tales. It’s renowned for its spas and the cuckoo clocks produced in the region since the 1700s. The region’s largest town, Freiburg, is filled with Gothic buildings and surrounded by vineyards.” If that didn’t sway you into adding this place to your bucket list, I don’t know what will. But, I’ve got some other tricks up my sleeve…

From the people who know this place the best, you know, the sources who’ve actually been there, I have gathered a list of the “TOP 10 MUSTS” you need to experience while visiting Black Forest, Germany.

 

1.Have your cake and eat it too, Black Forest cake that is!  

Black Forest Cake might be famous around the world, but there’s no better place to partake of this delectable treat than in the place it was first invented. You can find it at virtually any bakery or cafe. It’s composed of light and fluffy chocolate sponge cake, delicious cherries, and a generous helping of whipped cream. If you’d like to how to make Black Forest cake at home, Cuckoo Forest published three great recipes for you to try.

2. Enjoy the beauty of a true gem, the cascading Triberg Waterfalls

Bask in the beauty of a whimsical journey to Stadt Triberg, the highest waterfall in all of Germany. While you can experience the gorgeous sights any time of year, with a very brief hike, these waterfalls are most breathtaking in winter or after snow melts, as water dramatically cascades down in a brilliant display.

3. Enjoy total peace and relaxation at the Schluchsee Shores

The Schluchsee is a crystal clear, beautiful glacial body of water that is the biggest lake in the region. It’s the perfect spot for water sports of all kinds. For those mainly interested in the view, its surrounding landscape is equally incredible, with lush green hills and peaceful skies ahead.

4. Witness the rich historical prowess of the Karlsruhe Palace

For over more than two centuries, this Baroque castle served royalty, drang dukes, and high-ranking members of society. Now, the Karlsruhe Palace is accessible to anyone, as one of the greatest and most fascinating museums in all of Germany. There are 32 different paths and roads that span out from all sides of this cultural heritage spot to explore.

5. Experience the heritage of Cuckoo Clock Shops

Black Forest is known for being the place of origin of cuckoo clocks, meaning it’s the perfect place to see the most traditional varieties of these now famous timepieces. Virtually any stores that sell these clocks are worth dropping by, and of course, you can always check out the House of 1000 Clocks or the German Clock Museum while you’re at it. Black Forest cuckoo clocks represent the exquisite artistry of German woodcarvers. I bet you didn’t know there are 16 steps that go into making a German cuckoo clock. Well, there are, and you can see them here!

6. Feel the whimsical, magical properties of Mummelsee Lake

Mummelsee Lake is fraught with myth and legend. It is believed that this humble body of water is home to fantastical creatures like mermaids, and also to the mysterious King of Mummelsee. If you’re not much for mythology, you can enjoy the gorgeous view of crystalline water and the rush of greenery surrounding it.

7. Explore your adventurous side at Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is the abode of a wide range of exciting and relaxing activities. You can indulge in one of 12 hot springs, take a trip to the lush and invigorating hiking trail of Schwarzwald Hochstrasse, visit the fairy tale-like world of the rose gardens at Rosengarten auf dem Beutig, or hang out in one of the many showstopping parks and gardens.

8. Create your own glass masterpiece at Buhlbach

Glassblowing in an intricate art, and if you take a journey down to Dorotheenhutte Glassworks, you can give it a whirl yourself. You can participate in and watch the craftsmanship involved in glass work, from the hand-cutting to the mouth-blowing. You can even try creating your own vase!

9. For foodies with a bit of a devilish streak try Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte

Many mistake Black Forest Cake for Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, but they are not the same. Known as Black Forest gateau, this sinful dessert uses similar ingredients to the cake but with an added dash of Kirsch, a cherry-flavored brandy that adds a real kick to this yummy delight.

10. Photograph the architectural wonders of Kreuzblume

A Kreuzblume is a finial – a kind of ornamental piece of architecture typically found on the roofs, canopies, or pillars of buildings, and plenty of traditional or older buildings in Black Forest have them. While they can’t exactly be “visited,” they are beautiful works of art that you can keep an eye out for as you are on your many adventures.

So, now you see how my daydreams have turned “dark,” as dark as The Black Forest that is. Which honestly, isn’t dark at all and is actually truly magical. It’s a place I hope to explore in real life soon, not just in my dreams, and I sure hope you get to as well!

For more information visit: CuckooForest.com

Sources & Images: Cuckoo Forest

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