The Premium Hiking Trail \u201cSchluchtensteig\u201d 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.<\/p>\n
Even away from the trail, there are places where you feel transported to another time. With 10,000 inhabitants, Blumberg\u2014the destination of the first stage\u2014is 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\u2019ll experience a week of \u201cperfect world\u201d vibes, complete with Black Forest charm.<\/p>\n
We begin the first stage from St\u00fchlingen 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 Sch\u00fcrgarten\u2014a wonderfully and lovingly designed garden. The exhibition \u201cLet the Flowers Speak\u201d also caught our attention. What a fantastic start to the holiday!<\/p>\n
Between Germany and Swiss<\/strong> “Almost like Tarzan”<\/strong> Tough ascent<\/strong>
\nThen on Sunday, at the Wiizemer Steg\u2014a bridge connecting Germany and Switzerland\u2014we get caught in a shower. Luckily, it\u2019s the only one that day. From Weizen train station, home of the Sauschw\u00e4nzlebahn (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\u2019t open until 2 p.m., we still get a good impression of the grounds. It’s truly romantic here.<\/p>\n
\nAt Blumegg, there’s also a stop on the Sauschw\u00e4nzlebahn, 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\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
\nThen comes the most strenuous part of the first stage: from here on, it\u2019s a steep uphill climb via the Ottilienh\u00f6he and Buchberg until we reach our destination, Blumberg. Elevation gains at the end of a day\u2019s stage are always a bit of a challenge, especially with several kilometers already behind us. But we\u2019re rewarded on the Buchberg with a stunning view of the surrounding villages. Passing the G\u00e4nseliesel fountain in Blumberg, we walk to our lodging, the Hotel zum Hirschen. After a hot shower, the world already feels quite different\u2014and the delicious meal at the hotel adds the perfect finishing touch!<\/p>\n