Solo Summer 2025 days 16-20: 4 Days in the Black Forest (with a French Detour!)

After years of dreaming about the Black Forest—and not just because of the cake—I finally spent four wonderful days exploring this iconic region of southwestern Germany. With fairy-tale villages, hiking trails through pine-covered hills, charming trains, local wines, and a quick hop into France, it was everything I hoped it would be and more.

Day 1: Arrival in Gengenbach – A Fairytale Welcome

My adventure began in the picture-perfect town of Gengenbach, often described as one of the prettiest towns in the Black Forest—and for good reason. After checking in to the cozy Hotel Restaurant Sonne, I set off to explore.

The town itself is straight out of a storybook, with colorful half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and lively little shops. I hopped aboard the GenenBahn, a cheerful mini tourist train that winds through town, offering a great way to get the lay of the land (and a nice rest for tired feet).

Dinner was back at my hotel’s restaurant, which is one of the most highly rated in town. A glass (or two) of local wine paired perfectly with the meal—smooth, crisp, and unmistakably from the region. The relaxed charm of the evening, combined with the gentle hum of conversation in the background, was the perfect end to my first day.

Day 2: Waterfalls, Red Squirrels, and Cuckoo Clocks in Triberg

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel (highlighted by a creamy brie-meets-blue cheese hybrid that I’m still dreaming about), I boarded the train to Triberg, home of Germany’s highest waterfall—and the cuckoo clock capital of the world.

The town was a short walk from the station, and I stopped for a cup of tea and a generous slice of Black Forest cake, because when in Triberg, dessert comes first. Fueled by sugar and caffeine, I started the waterfall trail. Along the way, I was thrilled to find small bags of peanuts for sale at the ticket booth—perfect for making friends with the area’s famous red squirrels. These little guys are adorable and surprisingly bold.

After climbing to the top, I continued along the rim trail, which offered gorgeous views and eventually led to a quiet lake with a welcoming café. A small beer and a large water never tasted so good.

Back in town, I visited the Black Forest Museum, where I learned more about the region’s traditions, crafts, and of course, clocks. I wandered through local shops, including one that proudly boasted over 1,000 cuckoo clocks—some whimsical, some elegant, all ticking away in their own way.

Dinner was once again at my hotel’s restaurant, and the food didn’t disappoint. The evening’s unexpected entertainment came from the pair of storks nesting on a chimney across the street. I watched them take turns bringing food to their baby—a quiet, magical moment I won’t forget.

Day 3: Markets, Mistakes, and a Scavenger Hunt in Freiburg

On Day 3, I headed to the vibrant city of Freiburg, known for its medieval architecture, eco-conscious vibe, and bustling markets. I went straight to the Cathedral Market, which wraps around the stunning Freiburg Minster. Market days are one of my favorite parts of European travel, and this one did not disappoint.

I grabbed a handful of fresh mixed berries and cherries, found a shady fountain ledge, and enjoyed a snack while people-watching. After finishing the fruit, I explored the cathedral, then started a digital scavenger hunt through the World City Trail app. It turned out to be a fantastic way to see the city’s highlights while learning quirky bits of history.

Halfway through, I paused for lunch and made a culinary error: I ordered “sausage salad with cheese,” expecting greens and maybe something fresh. Instead, I got a pile of bologna-like sausage tossed with cheese in a vinaigrette. Not my finest decision.

Luckily, the scavenger hunt led me to a nearby food hall a few clues later, where I enjoyed a delicious Persian dish with chicken, vegetables, and rice. Full and happy once again, I finished the scavenger hunt and headed back to Gengenbach for the night.

Day 4: A Delicious Detour to Strasbourg

Although not technically in the Black Forest, Strasbourg is just a short train ride away, and I couldn’t resist returning to this charming French city I first visited two years ago.

To avoid another lunch surprise, I booked a Do Eat Better food tour, which was an excellent choice. We started at 3 Petits Cochons for a lovely charcuterie tasting, followed by a traditional Alsatian lunch of sausage, ham, and sauerkraut. Next came a cheese shop stop (pre-dessert, naturally), and we wrapped up with a tarte flambée—a thin, crispy flatbread that’s somewhere between pizza and perfection. A bonus stop at a bakery for a takeaway Alsatian pastry rounded out the experience.

In the afternoon, I returned to the majestic Strasbourg Cathedral, home to one of the most incredible astronomical clocks I’ve ever seen. I then explored the trio of museums next door—Fine Arts, Decorative Arts, and Archaeology—each worth a visit.

Before catching the train back to Gengenbach, I revisited the cheese and charcuterie shops to pick up some favorites, including a decadent Munster cheese with truffles, and stopped by a bakery for a fresh baguette.

That evening, my hotel’s restaurant was closed, but I didn’t mind one bit. I had the peaceful courtyard all to myself to enjoy my picnic dinner with music in the background. It was the perfect end to a wonderful four days.

I truly loved every moment of this trip—from charming Gengenbach and waterfall hikes in Triberg to foodie adventures in Strasbourg and market day in Freiburg. As I now head toward Munich, Nuremberg, and Berlin to prepare for our December 2025 Study Abroad trip, I carry with me not just snacks and souvenirs—but the memory of storks, squirrels, and Black Forest magic.