Wittnau lies seven kilometres south of Freiburg in the Hexental Valley, between vineyards and wooded slopes. The village sits in a wide saddle between Schönberg and the Black Forest. The landscape, village history and trails through the surrounding area shape the destination’s character and offer different highlights for your stay.
Vineyards, Slopes and Views
The three distinctive hills of Kapuzinerbuck, GroĂźer Buck and Hasenbuck offer sweeping views across the Rhine Plain and towards Freiburg. How far the view extends depends on vegetation and weather. All three hills are still used for winegrowing; vineyards and forest meet on their slopes. Wittnau also lies at the foot of the Black Forest, surrounded by green meadows and dense woodland.
The landscape can be experienced from different perspectives: from the hills mentioned above, with wide views across the plain and towards the city, or along the wooded and vine-covered slopes. Those who mainly want to spend time outdoors will find both signposted hiking trails and a mapped cycling network in Wittnau and the surrounding area.
Village Centre and Alemannic Traditions
The historic village centre is located around the church, town hall and schoolhouse. This area is the centre of political, religious and cultural life in Wittnau. The church, built in 1795, is considered the last Baroque church to have been built in the Breisgau region. The village’s name also has a long history: Wittnau is first documented in 786 in the records of St. Gall Abbey.
Alemannic traditions include regular performances and the annual Alemannentag, featuring Alemannic singer-songwriters and dialect poets. If you would like to attend the Alemannentag during your stay, check the relevant dates and programme before travelling.
On Foot and by Bike
Wittnau has numerous signposted hiking trails. The Schönberg nature trail comprises two sections that meet near the Unterer Schönberghof inn. You can walk them separately or together; the church in Wittnau is one access point to the trail. The route is considered suitable for family outings. As routes and signage may change, check the latest local information before setting out.
A hiking route runs from Wittnau, near the church, along the Kuckuckspfad to Berghauser Chapel and on to the edge of Bollschweil. The return route follows the Schönberg slope. The Hexental Adventure Trail also runs through the area: it is about ten kilometres long and follows a historic route from Au to Bollschweil. On the Au section, information boards explain the forest ecosystem, animals, tree species and forestry. Twelve life-size carved forest animals can be spotted along the trail. Both the route and facilities for this trail may change; check local conditions in advance.
The cycling network is also considered well developed and suitable for all ability levels. Check current route information and signage before planning a ride.
Getting Here and the Wider Region
Wittnau can be reached by bus route 7208 from Freiburg and Bad Krozingen. Check the current timetable before travelling. Many places in the wider Breisgau-Hochschwarzwald travel region can be reached by train. The free KONUS guest card provides free use of local trains and buses throughout the Black Forest.
Discover more destinations: Breitnau, Heitersheim, Kirchzarten, Staufen im Breisgau, Dittishausen, Sulzburg, Lenzkirch, Oberrimsingen.
Back to the main travel overview: Breisgau-Hochschwarzwald.
