There’s so much more to the beautiful Black Forest than pine trees. With peaceful lakes and meadows, traditional farmhouses and small villages, as well as the freshest air, it’s a terrific place to cycle. The Black Forest Panorama Cycle Trail (Schwarzwald Panorama Radweg) has five stages that take in breath-taking scenery as well as local attractions. From north to south, the paved bike path swoops across the low mountain ranges to Waldshut-Tiengen on the Swiss border, a total of 276 km / 172 miles. From Pforzheim, famous for its jewellery-making tradition, join the Enz Valley Cycle Path on the way to the spa town of Bad Wildbad and then Enzklösterle, known for its blueberries. Each day has highlights – and Höchstberg Mountain is one. At 1,084 m / 3,550 ft high, this is the highest point on the route! The reward for the climb is the glorious vista. Alternatively, from Bad Wildbad, you can climb 300 m / 1,000 ft effortlessly, by taking the Sommerberg funicular railway. Having pedalled past lakes and through villages, the final stretch is downhill to Waldshut-Tiengen. Celebrate with authentic Black Forest Cake (real cherries, thick cream and chocolate) and cheeses, sausages and home-baked breads from local farmers.
Start: Pforzheim, 1 hour west of Stuttgart.
Finish: Waldshut-Tiengen, 2 hours southwest of Stuttgart
www.schwarzwald-panoramaradweg.de