Schluchtensteig: stage one
The Premium Hiking Trail “Schluchtensteig” in the Southern Black Forest Nature Park can be hiked in six stages. The long-distance trail stretches over nearly 120 kilometers and includes a fair amount of elevation: 3,479 meters of ascent and 3,592 meters of descent. For nature lovers, this trail is definitely a very special experience. Time and again, you find yourself in a jungle-like forest and gorge landscape, with moss-covered stones, wild rivers, and beautiful waterfalls.
Even away from the trail, there are places where you feel transported to another time. With 10,000 inhabitants, Blumberg—the destination of the first stage—is the largest overnight stop along the way. One thing is clear: the Schluchtensteig invites you to pause and take it all in. If you open yourself up to the diverse flora and fauna, you’ll experience a week of “perfect world” vibes, complete with Black Forest charm.
We begin the first stage from Stühlingen to Blumberg on a slightly rainy Sunday. We used the day of arrival to acclimate a bit. Hohenlupfen Castle (at one point in Swiss hands) was on the agenda. By chance, we discovered the Schürgarten—a wonderfully and lovingly designed garden. The exhibition “Let the Flowers Speak” also caught our attention. What a fantastic start to the holiday!
Between Germany and Swiss
Then on Sunday, at the Wiizemer Steg—a bridge connecting Germany and Switzerland—we get caught in a shower. Luckily, it’s the only one that day. From Weizen train station, home of the Sauschwänzlebahn (a historic railway), the trail climbs steeply into the forest. After about an hour, we reach the first highlight: the museum mill in Weiler. Although the museum doesn’t open until 2 p.m., we still get a good impression of the grounds. It’s truly romantic here.
“Almost like Tarzan”
At Blumegg, there’s also a stop on the Sauschwänzlebahn, but we continue on foot. Following the railway line, we reach the Wutach Gorge. Passing the Wutach Gorge viaduct, we dive into a primeval forest atmosphere. The gorge features not only a waterfall but also two panoramic viewpoints. From these, you get a great sense of the Black Forest’s unspoiled nature. Upon exiting the gorge, we reach a parking area where we learn more about the production of Black Forest ham from the information boards.
Tough ascent
Then comes the most strenuous part of the first stage: from here on, it’s a steep uphill climb via the Ottilienhöhe and Buchberg until we reach our destination, Blumberg. Elevation gains at the end of a day’s stage are always a bit of a challenge, especially with several kilometers already behind us. But we’re rewarded on the Buchberg with a stunning view of the surrounding villages. Passing the Gänseliesel fountain in Blumberg, we walk to our lodging, the Hotel zum Hirschen. After a hot shower, the world already feels quite different—and the delicious meal at the hotel adds the perfect finishing touch!
