The Black Forest (Schwarzwald) extends across Baden-Württemberg, Germany, beginning just east of the Rhine and rising to over 1,400 metres at the Feldberg summit. From Grand Est, the most direct approach is by car from Colmar via the D415 and the Col du Bonhomme mountain pass (90 km, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes), entering the southern Black Forest lake district near Titisee-Neustadt. By train, Titisee is reachable from Strasbourg in about two hours with a change at Freiburg (approximately €25 return; book at bahn.de).
Titisee, a glacially formed lake of striking turquoise clarity, serves as the natural hub for a day visit. The lakeside promenade is lined with cafés, souvenir shops, and boat-hire stands; pedal-boat and rowboat hire costs €10–€14 per hour. The 5 km Seerundweg forest path circles the entire lake through mixed woodland. The Feldberg summit (1,493 m), Germany's highest peak outside the Alps, lies 10 km from Titisee and is reachable by car or seasonal shuttle bus, with views across the Swiss Alps on clear days.
A recommended day arc starts with the Col du Bonhomme scenic drive from Colmar — worth a brief pass-summit stop — arriving at Titisee by 10 h. Morning suits the lakeshore promenade and a boat hire or Seerundweg walk. Lakeside restaurants serve Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, Maultaschen, and Bratwurst for €10–€18 per main course. The afternoon suits a drive or hike toward Feldberg for panoramic views before the return journey west across the Vosges into Alsace.
June through October is the prime season: forests are fully leafed, the lake is swimmable from July (water temperature peaks around 20°C in August), and hiking trails are clear. October delivers spectacular autumn foliage. January through March transforms the area into a ski destination, particularly at Feldberg where a day lift pass costs approximately €35.
How to get there
- Car from Colmar (1h15)
- Train: Strasbourg–Freiburg–Titisee (2h, ~€25 return)
Location
Titisee-Neustadt, 79822 Germany (central Black Forest)
47.8894, 8.1512 View on map
Highlights
- Titisee glacial lake: boat hire, lakeshore promenade, and 5 km Seerundweg forest circuit
- Feldberg summit (1,493 m) — Germany's highest peak outside the Alps with Alpine panoramas
- Scenic Col du Bonhomme mountain pass approach from Alsace into the Black Forest
- Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte and traditional Black Forest cakes at lakeside restaurants
- Winter skiing and snowshoeing at Feldberg with day lift pass from approximately €35
Tips for visiting
- Drive from Colmar via Col du Bonhomme for the most scenic approach — allow extra time for pass-summit stops
- Titisee fills quickly on summer weekends; aim to arrive by 10 h to find parking near the lake
- Book train Strasbourg–Freiburg–Titisee at bahn.de for fares from approximately €25 return
- Bring euros — many Black Forest kiosks and market stalls are cash-only
- Check Feldberg snow and trail conditions at feldberg-schwarzwald.de before a winter visit
When to visit
June to October for hiking, swimming, and open-air lake activities; October for autumn foliage. January to March for skiing at Feldberg. Avoid Titisee on summer weekend middays when car parks fill rapidly.
Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to visit the Black Forest without a car?
Titisee is reachable by train from Strasbourg in about two hours with a change at Freiburg, making it the practical car-free option. Feldberg and smaller villages are significantly harder to access without a vehicle.
Can children swim in Titisee?
Yes — designated swimming areas on the eastern shore are open in summer (July–September). The water temperature peaks around 20°C in August. Shallow entry sections make it suitable for families.
Is the Black Forest suitable for a family day trip?
Yes — Titisee boat hire, the Seerundweg forest walk, and Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte are all family-friendly. Feldberg has a summer toboggan run (Sommerrodelbahn) as an additional draw for children.
What is the best base for a day trip to the Black Forest from Grand Est?
Titisee-Neustadt works well for lakes and easy hikes. For the Feldberg summit, driving directly from Colmar or Freiburg is most efficient.
What are typical food costs at Titisee?
Lakeside restaurants and kiosks serve Black Forest gateau, Bratwurst, and Maultaschen; a main course typically costs €12–€20. Coffee and cake at lakeside cafés runs €6–€10.