Schluchtenstieg: Etappe fünf
Today, as I can look back, I believe we are about to experience the most beautiful stage of the Schluchtensteig. After resting the day before, we are now able to handle the first ascent from St. Blasien to Lusthauskopf quite well. From up here, we have a wonderful view of both St. Blasien and the dome of the cathedral. The weather is dry again, and it even looks as if the sun will soon peek through the clouds. The further we progress along this stage, the more beautiful the path becomes. We pass by typical Black Forest houses with sloped roofs and lush meadows in full bloom. At Lehenkopf, we come to an observation tower. We indulge in the extra 18 meters of elevation and enjoy a stunning view of the Feldberg region from above. On particularly clear days, the view extends all the way to the Swiss Alps. Although we are not so lucky today, we still enjoy it very much. From time to time, hikers seem to set up camp in the tower as well.
Viewpoint Horbach and Klosterweiher
As mentioned, today the highlights come one after the other. First, we reach the viewpoint Horbach at 1,000 meters above sea level. Here, we simply have to take a break in the lovely weather and relax in the comfortable wooden loungers. Since it’s a holiday and the weather is good, it’s quite busy here today. So, we start our descent toward the Klosterweiher, but skip the stop for now, as we’ve just had breakfast. We continue uphill, where we are greeted by another surprise: the Kreuzfelsen viewpoint with a shelter and barbecue area. The panoramic view is a dream. Again, we’d love to linger longer, but we still have a good stretch to Todtmoos ahead of us.
Ibacher Friedenskreuz and Lampenschweine
After passing through several idyllic pasturelands and a heather-like landscape, the scenery and views become even more beautiful. At the Ibacher Friedenskreuz, we are truly speechless. The view is simply magical. Unfortunately, it’s quite crowded up here, which slightly detracts from the relaxation. But that’s just how it is—nature is, after all, for everyone. We take a deep breath of the fresh air and soak in the beautiful view with our eyes before continuing. The path ahead becomes quite long now. Why? Because the flower meadows are so gorgeous that we take photo after photo and move forward at a snail’s pace. At the Lampenschweine, we enjoy another lovely view and then follow the forest trail until we come out onto a meadow path leading into the valley. Along the way, we admire a herd of cows with their calves—very cute!
Detour to the Wehra Spring
Via a narrow, very beautiful trail, we reach the Wehra Valley. We have arrived at the Hohwehraschlucht. When we discover a signpost pointing to the Wehra Spring, we follow the call. Although all we find is a small stream that quickly widens, the detour is worth it because this spot is very beautiful for a peaceful break. We return to the Schluchtensteig and begin the final stage toward Todtmoos. The narrow path through the small, wild-romantic gorge right by the water is very lovely. The trail winds along the Wehra River, sometimes on the left, sometimes on the right bank. Just before reaching our destination, we spot a historic beer cellar on the right side, but unfortunately, it’s abandoned. In the afternoon, we arrive in the small town of Todtmoos, which greets us with glorious sunshine. Right at the end of the hiking trail, we find our hotel, the Wehrahof. Here, we are warmly and openly greeted by the owner, who has already brought our luggage to the room. It’s a lovely feeling to be welcomed. She also immediately recommends a café and a restaurant for the evening. Both are within walking distance. The tip was well worth it. It’s advisable to reserve a table for the evening, as the restaurant options are limited.
The Place of Gingerbread
Fun fact on the side: We found it interesting that Todtmoos seems to have a special relationship with gingerbread. There is both a gingerbread maker’s garden and a gingerbread market. However, the latter does not take place in winter, as one might assume, but in spring.
