Black Forest in depth

From the highest waterfall in Germany to the world’s biggest cuckoo clock, this guided driving tour of the Black Forest lets you explore the region’s sights and scenic routes in one day. With a private driver, you’ll get to see the Triberg Waterfalls, where the Gutach River spills down seven levels to the rocky valley below. You’ll have the chance to hike around the falls and visit the shops on Triberg’s main street, to peruse locally made crafts. The route, which we can tailor to your particular interests, winds along panoramic roads with sweeping views of the Swiss Alps and Vosges Mountains, giving you a chance to appreciate the forest’s vast size.

On your ride to Triberg, you’ll pass scenery characteristic to the region: wooded areas and deforested meadows where the cows of dairy farmers graze. Often, you’ll catch glimpses of the gentle peaks belonging to the Vosges Mountains and the striking summits of the Swiss Alps.

When you arrive in Triberg, you can head to the Triberg Waterfalls, one of the highest waterfalls in Germany at 163 m (535 feet). The Gutach River tumbles over seven steps, falling from a high plain to a rocky V-shaped valley below.

There are hiking trails up to the top of the waterfall, which begin off the main street in town. The route is challenging, so we only recommend the trails for those who are experienced hikers. Depending on the time of year, certain parts of the waterfalls may not be accessible, so be sure to check ahead of time.

After seeing the waterfalls, head into the small town. The streets are steep and the buildings adorned with flower boxes spilling over with blossoms. While in town, you can shop the many stores selling locally made crafts, stop by and watch the world’s largest cuckoo clock or learn more about the region at the Black Forest Museum.

The museum examines all sides of the Black Forest and sheds some light on regional customs. You’ll learn how many pom-poms are on the traditional Bollenhut hat and why the women of Triberg don top hats. You’ll also get to see the four centuries worth of Black Forest clocks, an important part of the region’s industry.

You’re free to enjoy lunch while in town. We suggest Restaurant Bergseestüble for the chance to try the local delicacy of Triberg spruce ham, a tender ham dish seasoned by earthy spruce trees. And be sure to top off your meal with a piece of classic Black Forest cake.

When you’re done in town, your driver will head back along the winding, panoramic roads to your hotel.