Cycling vacation in the Northern Black Forest

Welcome to your cycling vacation in the northern Black Forest! Check into your hotel and settle in, as Freudenstadt serves not only as the starting and finishing point of your journey but also as your base for the next two stages. Take some time to explore this charming town. Wander through Germany's largest market square, complete with fountains and water wells, and enjoy the quaint shops and cafés lining the arcades that surround it. For a perfect start to your cycling adventure, treat yourself to a slice of authentic Black Forest cake—a delicious way to get in the mood for the days ahead.

The first stage of your tour takes you down the Murg Valley, through lush green meadows, shady forests, and past striking rock formations. Leaving Freudenstadt, you'll soon reach Baiersbronn, continuing along an old path through the narrowing valley to Forbach—undoubtedly the most scenic section of the route. As you reach Gernsbach, you’ll enter the Rhenish lowlands, cycling almost all the way to Rastatt. In Rastatt, take time to explore this baroque town, with its splendid historic buildings. A visit to the royal palace, often referred to as Baden’s Versailles, is a must. Afterward, take the train back to Freudenstadt to conclude your day.

Your excursion into the Kinzig Valley begins with a gentle ascent through enchanting forest landscapes, where you'll tackle the most challenging part of the day. As you descend, you’ll arrive in the picturesque half-timbered town of Alpirsbach, nestled along the Kinzig River. Famous for its local beer, the former monastery town makes for the perfect spot to take a lunch break. From here, you have the option to finish the stage in Hausach or continue on to the charming town of Gengenbach. No matter which you choose, a convenient train ride will bring you back to Freudenstadt to end your day.

On today's stage of your cycling vacation in the northern Black Forest, you'll first cycle through a scenic forest landscape towards Lossburg, the source of the Kinzig River. From there, continue to Leinstetten an der Glatt, following the Glatt River to the town of Glatt itself. Here, be sure to visit the impressive moated castle, a stunning example of Renaissance architecture dating back to the 15th century. The castle now houses several fascinating museums. Shortly after Glatt, you'll encounter the Neckar River, which will guide you on a sweeping ride through Horb to Eutingen im Gäu. From there, take the train back to Freudenstadt for a comfortable return to your starting point.

Today, you'll experience various perspectives of the legendary northern Black Forest landscape. Your route begins along the eastern ridge of the Murg Valley, taking you to Enzklösterle, the source of the River Enz. From there, the Enz will accompany you throughout the day as you cycle through the picturesque Enz Valley, flanked by towering wooded slopes, toward your overnight destination in Bad Wildbad. This historic spa town, with its elegant 19th-century flair, invites you to explore its charming spa gardens, featuring romantic paths and historic buildings. For ultimate relaxation, unwind at one of the two thermal baths, where you can enjoy the soothing, healing effects of the waters.

For the first section of the fifth stage of your cycling vacation, follow the River Enz as it leads you to Pforzheim, the gateway to the northern Black Forest. Pforzheim is known as the center of Germany’s jewelry and watch industry, and you can immerse yourself in the world of fine craftsmanship by visiting the Jewelry Museum or strolling along the famous Goldsmiths’ Mile. After leaving Pforzheim, continue along the Nagold River, cycling upstream past Bad Liebenzell and the historically significant Hirsau Monastery. You will then proceed through the picturesque Nagold Valley to your overnight stop in Calw, the charming town closely associated with the renowned writer Hermann Hesse. Consider taking a themed tour to follow in the footsteps of the town’s most famous son.

The final stage of your journey begins in an idyllic setting, following the Nagold River as you cycle through the foothills of the Black Forest. Pass the charming shepherd town of Wildberg on your way to Nagold. Leaving the Nagold Valley behind, you'll enter the neighboring Neckar Valley, the last of the five valleys on your cycle tour. Your destination for the day, Horb am Neckar, boasts one of the most picturesque town silhouettes in Germany. Take your time to wander through the winding alleyways of the well-preserved old town, climb the Stäffele, and visit the impressive collegiate church. Afterward, cycle on to Eutingen im Gäu and take the train back to Freudenstadt to conclude your journey.

After breakfast, your cycling vacation in the northern Black Forest comes to a close. If you’d like to extend your stay, perhaps with a hike in the stunning Northern Black Forest National Park, we would be delighted to arrange an extra night for you.