Westweg

From Black Forest standard to premium trail

For seasoned Black Forest hikers, the 280km, more than 100-year-old Westweg from Pforzheim in the north to Basle in the south is like a trusty friend. It has somehow always been there, is always willing to guide you along when you need it and never lets you down as it changes over the years.

On its journey south, the Westweg involves a total climb of 12,000 metres, crossing virtually all the tallest mountains in the region and ticking every Black Forest box along the way: ancient pine trees, mysterious cirque lakes, cuckoo clocks, farmhouses with low hip roofs and exceptional cuisine. The latter includes everything from Black Forest ham and trout to light snacks or heartier local dishes, accompanied by traditional beers and Badensian wines grown on sun-kissed vineyard slopes. Hotels and restaurants along the way have long since recognised the mood of the times and gained quality certification. Accommodation for tired walkers, hearty snacks and substantial breakfasts are the order of the day. Drying rooms, luggage transfers, information and a service tailored to the needs of walkers are now standard features.

The first stages of the route in the northern Black Forest are characterised by pine forests, far-stretching views, and upland pastures and meadows where flora and fauna flourish. After crossing the Kinzigtal valley, the trail then climbs up through the Central Black Forest to Mount Brend, before continuing up to the Upper Black Forest on the horizon. Feldberg, Belchen and Herzogenhorn are other peaks to conquer along the way, rewarding you with spectacular alpine views and landscapes. Cornfields or vineyards? The route splits as it reaches its conclusion with one trail ascending the Hohe Möhr and Dinkelberg mountains and the other up over Mount Blauen and through the Markgräfler Land region - both lead to the same destination: Basle.