Hiking and Walking in SouthWest Germany
There is nothing comparable like hiking in Southwest Germany: some say it is the fresh air, others, the glorious landscapes. Choose between the harmony and ease of the Black Forest, the intense green meadows in the Swabian Mountains, the river valleys in the Hohenlohe, or the contrast of water and mountains along the shores of Lake Constance.
Hiking as a recreational activity was invented in Southwest Germany over a century ago. No wonder the trail system is second to none!
Hike through the Black Forest along the Westweg, the Western Way, the world’s first marked trail. Stride along impressive gorges, and past waterfalls and ancient castles. Take easy day hikes, or set yourself longer challenges. Whatever you do, expect breathtaking views, rolling hills, and invigorating mountain air. Wherever you hike, from the Tauber Valley down to Lake Constance, you will come across cozy huts, local food, wines, and a warm welcome.
Roman Roads and Pilgrim Trails
Follow the Roman route: The Limes Hiking Trail (Limes-Wanderweg) stretches for 150 miles/240 km from Miltenberg in the Neckar-Odenwald Nature Reserve to Wilburgstetten and the Swabian-Franconian Forest. Walk in the footsteps of pilgrims: You can join part of the Santiago Pilgrimage Trail, a hundreds of years old route that ends in Santiago de Compostela in Spain. In SouthWest Germany, the 8-stage/day hike goes from the medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber to the no less charming cathedral city of Ulm.
Gorges and Hiking Heaven
Don’t miss the Wutach Gorge (Wutachschlucht), nicknamed the "Grand Canyon" of the Black Forest. It is not compared with the "Grand Canyon" for nothing - make your own impression of the breathtaking scenery. Visit it on a 10-mile/15-km hike that takes about 5 hours. The gorge on the Wutach is 650 feet/200 m deep and rich with flora and fauna: 1,200 ferns and flowers, 1,400 kinds of bugs, and 590 kinds of butterflies! Another splendid hiking area stretches around the hills near the community of Baiersbronn which is characterized by endless forests, meadows, valleys, and paths that run beside gurgling steams.
Traufgänge (Hiking Trails)
Traufgänge are special hiking trails through spectacular countryside. Expect fine views and some surprises: sunshine filtering through dense forest, and Wacholderheide, unusual heath land dotted with juniper trees. See silver thistles and orchids, rugged gorges and unique shaped rock formations.
Riding: Southwest Germany on horseback
A lovely way to explore the beautiful landscapes with their orchards, idyllic villages, and cozy restaurants, is on horseback. Thanks to a well-developed network of trails and stables, you can ride from farm to farm along well-marked routes. Find out more below.