Schönwald in the Black Forest combines hiking routes through meadows and forests with winter sports and insights into local crafts. When planning, it is worth first deciding what you want to focus on: would you like to hike outdoors, use the cross-country trails and ski lifts, or discover the region’s culture and cuisine? The different activities each give your trip its own character.
Hiking among meadows, forests and moorland
Schönwald offers just under 60 kilometres of hiking trails. The local hiking landscape includes meadows, tranquil lakes, streams and deep-green forests. Hiking options include certified therapeutic climate trails and discovery tours to the sources of the Danube, Elz and Gutach rivers. The Heilklima-Steig is designated as a Hochschwarzwald Genießerpfad and a premium hiking trail.
The Blindenseemoor also adds a distinctive natural feature to route planning: up to 20 species of sphagnum moss grow there, along with heather, bilberry and cranberry. Anyone interested in the moor’s plant life will find specific species here, rather than just a general forest setting. Their appearance can vary with the seasons.
When choosing a suitable route, it is also important not to assume that conditions are the same on every trail. Selected hiking trails have gentle inclines and passable surfaces for visitors with pushchairs or wheelchairs. Check the surface conditions before setting out; this information applies to the selected trails and not automatically to the entire range of hiking options.
Cross-country skiing, ski lifts and mountain biking
In winter, the local cross-country network includes more than 40 kilometres of groomed trails for both classic and skate skiing. The two ski lifts on offer differ: the Dobel ski lift is considered family-friendly, while the Rössle ski lift is more challenging and is located in the Weißenbachtal valley. A 2.5-kilometre biathlon course runs through the Weißenbachtal valley at the Rothaus cross-country skiing centre.
Trail grooming and access to winter activities are seasonal. Check conditions before making plans rather than relying on trail length alone as an indication that the trails are actually open. This also helps you decide whether cross-country skiing, a downhill run or the biathlon course should be the focus of your day.
Marked mountain bike trails run through the forests and landscapes in and around Schönwald. If you prefer to ride with a guide, you can consider individually tailored tours with qualified bike guides. E-mountain bikes and mountain bikes are also available to rent in Schönwald. Rental and guided tour offerings may change; check availability in advance.
Black Forest crafts and regional cuisine
The Reinertonishof cultural monument showcases local crafts and Black Forest rural life from centuries past. The farm includes a family-run smokehouse, established in 1619, and a distillery. The farm restaurant serves home-smoked Black Forest ham and other regional specialities. This lets you combine a glimpse of cultural history with local food.
Several specific activities are also listed for families at the Reinertonishof: pony rides, carriage rides and a playground. Access, operations and the programme may change, so check these details before visiting. This information applies to the farm and its offerings, not to the general suitability of other trails or attractions.
Another craft remains associated with Schönwald to this day: local clockmakers and carvers continue to make handmade cuckoo clocks, which can be bought locally. The cultural story thus ranges from historic rural life at the Reinertonishof to a locally made item you can take home as a souvenir. As businesses and products can change, it is advisable to enquire if you are specifically looking to buy a clock.
Discover more destinations: Gremmelsbach, Vöhrenbach, Schonach in the Black Forest, Donaueschingen, Kappel, Neukirch, Furtwangen in the Black Forest, Blumberg.
Return to the main travel overview: Schwarzwald-Baar-Kreis.
