Oberfischbach

We hit the road early today to explore the southern reaches of the Black Forest, with plenty of stops, stories, and slices of cake along the way. But first: breakfast with a view.

We headed to Extrablatt, a local chain with a reliable buffet—but the real standout here was the location. In Freiburg, it’s right by the Dreisam River, and thanks to the floor-to-ceiling glass windows, we were basically having coffee in a sun-drenched postcard.

Bellies full, it was time to get rolling.

Stop 1: Ravenna Gorge
This place is dramatic with a capital D. The cliffs close in around you, the trail winds through the forest, and then suddenly: the massive stone viaduct arches overhead. We followed the trail deeper in—past the big and small Ravenna Waterfalls, until we reached the Großjockenmühle, a picture-perfect water mill nestled in the woods.
On the way back, we passed the little touristy hub near the trailhead, where we were greeted by... a GIANT cuckoo clock. On the hour, it sprang to life with music and dancing figurines. Absolutely charming and very, very Black Forest.

Stop 2: Titisee
Ah yes, the legendary lake of Instagram and tour bus dreams. But honestly? A bit underwhelming. It’s calm and pleasant, sure—but the hype didn’t quite match the experience for us. We didn’t linger.

Stop 3: Schluchsee
Much better! It’s bigger, quieter, and more relaxed. Though the water level was really low—apparently the region is dealing with a drought right now. Still, the views were pretty and it gave us the perfect excuse for that beloved German tradition: Kaffee und Kuchen. Finally, Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte (Black Forest Cake) in the Black Forest. Yes, it’s a tourist cliché—but it’s also so good, so who cares?

Stop 4: Dom St. Blasien
Now this… THIS was unexpected.
Imagine winding through tiny Black Forest towns, and then suddenly—a giant cathedral rises out of nowhere. It’s a mini St. Peter’s Basilica, plopped into the forest.
Apparently, it was designed as a replica of the Roman original, and it’s massive. Echoes, domes, marble. I still don’t understand how or why it’s here, but I’m glad we saw it.

Stop 5: Todtnau
Surrounded by steep mountains and ski lifts, you can tell this town must buzz in the winter. Even without snow, it had a certain charm—nestled into the hillside, waiting for ski season to wake it up again.

Back in Freiburg, we wrapped up this packed day at Zum Goldenen Anker. This place is all about the local food, and we came with high expectations for the Schnitzel!
They delivered. My Cordon Bleu was crispy on the outside, oozing cheese and ham on the inside—chef’s kiss. Sanjay gave his classic Schnitzel a solid thumbs up too.

All in all? A Black Forest day full of contrasts—waterfalls, fairytale villages, unexpected cathedrals, and cake, always cake.Læs mere