The Ancient Black Forest
Sep 11th, 2008 | By Todd Gibson | Category: TravelWith a name like Black Forest, you might want to stay away from this forest area in Germany. Do not let the name lead you astray. This is an incredibly beautiful area of not only Germany, but the world.
The Black Forest is known for a lot of things. Oddly, food is one of them. Well, at least a particular cake. The Cherry Schnapps influenced Black Forest Gateau is as wicked and delightful as it sounds. Ah, but there is obviously much more to the area.
Cuckoo clocks are handmade through the towns of the Black Forest. Clocks can be found in every shape, size, and price no matter where you go. Some say that these clocks were originally invented to provide the area with income after the logging industry began to die down, but others have a different explanation.
The Black Forest is a hot bed of rumors. From elves to witches to sorcerers, the forest is the basis of many a fairy tale and plenty of folklore. Given the density of the woods, it is not hard to see why such stories and myths have developed.
Listen to the stories and myths long enough and you will build up an appetite. German food is solid and the Black Forest is no different. From meat to big cakes to sinus clearing schnapps, you will definitely not go hungry.
The Black Forest is a big area, but there are some areas you definitely want to visit. The small town of Freiberg is a classic German forest town. Rent a bike and go for a ride to take in the cute town and clean air.
Pforzheim was originally founded by the Romans as an important mercantile center. There, you will find lots of great handmade jewelry and (of course) plenty of cuckoo clocks. Additionally, this town includes the Technisches Museum, which details the very beginning of life within this area.
One of my personal favorites in the Black Forest is Triberg. It is a small town with a lot to do. After the heavy German cuisine, you are going to want to walk a bit. Triberg is full of paths through the forest for any level of hiker.
No matter where you go in the Black Forest, you can be sure that you will find a comfortable inn to lay your head once your busy day is done. Every little village is amazing as is the forest as a whole.