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Post from 06/01/2011

Active vacation in the land of cuckoo clocks and felt hats


Those seeking an active vacation will very much enjoy the Black Forest as it is true paradise. The clear air and diverse landscape entice to have a proper workout. Whether hiking, mountain biking, climbing, water sports or skiing there is something available for everyone. In addition to the wide great choice of outdoor activities there is a wide range of holiday apartments and houses that atraveo can offer for the Black Forest.

The Black Forest is the largest low mountain range in Germany and is located in the southwest. The landscape is quite unique and the majority of it is under conservation in order to retain the character of the region. Dark forests with crystal clear springs, misty valleys and lush green meadows and old rustic Black Forest farms give you the impression that time has stood still here. It is not surprising that many past traditions like felt hats and cuckoo clocks can be found in any respectable living room in the Black Forest. On special occasions and festivals the ladies wear the renowned felt hats and depending on the colours one is able to determine who is single or not.

 


Felt hats © Heike Budig/STG

 

 

Ideal conditions for outdoor fansThe Schwarzwaldverein is responsible for taking care of more than 24,000 kilometres of designated routes and tracks which cross through the most delightful landscapes of the Back Forest. Families with kids will probably find shorter hikes linked to specific topics like the guided tour in Todtmoos to their liking. Should you be looking to go on longer tours then it is recommended to consider one of the many extensive hiking routes such as the “Westweg”. Alternatively they can be split into stages which make them ideal for day trips. Whilst the Feldberg attracts many ski enthusiasts in the winter it is also a great place to explore in the summer as via many hiking routes one can take in breathtaking views and discover an array of rare animals and plants. Book one of the accommodations situated around the summit and be in the midst of this unique surroundings.

Should you prefer to get around faster mountain bikes are the best form of transport and can be rented from many sport shops. They are perfectly suitable to explore the countless forest routes with steep mountain slopes that can either be a challenge when pedalling up or a great thrill when speeding down. One can also rent E-Bikes with which you can conquer at great ease height differences. It only takes a gentle pedal and the bicycle with motor will swiftly take you up the mountains.

 

 


Balloon ride

In addition to this in the Black Forest there are very diverse as well as challenging climbing areas with unique rock formations and countless interesting climbing routes. It is particularly worth mentioning the dark red Battertfelsen not far away from Baden-Baden in the Nature Park Black Forest Centre/North. If that is not enough for you then you may want to try out paragliding. As the Black Forest has a range of slopes and perfect thermal conditions it is one of the best places for this sport. The gliding schools provide good offers for beginners where the basics of paragliding are taught and tandem flights are offered. Another way to see this extensive forest from a bird’s eye view is on a balloon ride or in a glider. On a good day you will have a view all over the Rhine Valley towards Alsace, Vosges and the Alps. Many of our properties also have garages and other types of carports where you can store sport equipment.
Schluchsee and Titisee situated in the Nature Park South Black Forest provide a number of sport activities including sailing, surfing, diving, swimming and rowing surrounded by a spectacular backdrop of rare flora and fauna. This region represents the touristic heartland of the Black Forest and is an ideal starting point for visiting sights and undertaking activities. If you would like to avoid the hustle and bustle surrounding the Titisee then you may want to opt for an accommodation in the holiday village Dittishausen which is only a few kilometres away but far quieter.
 


Typical Black Forest house

Lean back and enjoy

If you are seeking to unwind from the strain and stresses then you won’t have to look too long. In this region there are a great number of thermal spas and wells which supposedly are to have a healing affect. Place such as Bad Dürrheim, Bad Wildbad, Bad Rippoldsau or Bad Bellingen are known as wellness paradises where atraveo also has a range of holiday apartments and houses. For families the adventure park „Badeparadies Schwarzwald“ close to Titisee will be a great choice as the kids will have a lot of fun on the various slides and wave pools. Adults have an own designated area with real palm trees and a cocktail bar in the water as well as a wellness area which is a guarantee for complete relaxation and tranquillity.

Beyond this the region is known for its culinary delights. Specialties such as Spätzle (regional pasta), Maultaschen (Swabian ravioli), Black Forest ham, Black Forest kirsch and the famous Black Forest gateau originate from here. Wine connoisseurs should look to discover Markgräflerland and Ortenau where Chasselas and Burgundy grow on the steep western slopes of the Black Forest. The village of Baiersbronn is a real gourmet centre and three chefs share seven stars between them.

One should spend the evenings on the terrace or balcony of your property and listen to the chirping of the birds until the silence of the night approaches and the sun disappears behind the spruces.