How Interesting Wandering in the Black Forest in Germany Can be? – Tips and Secrets You Need to Know
Wandering in the black forest in Germany would be the last thing on your mind when you think about Germany. After all, who would associate a dark and spooky forest with one of the most prosperous and industrialized countries in the world? But the Black Forest is just that – a dark and spooky forest that is said to be home to the Brothers Grimm, who collected many of the famous fairy tales that we know today.
The Black Forest is located in southwestern Germany, near the borders of France and Switzerland. The forest gets its name from the fact that it is full of evergreen trees, which make it look black from a distance. The forest is about 120 kilometers long and 50 kilometers wide, making it one of the largest forests in Germany.
Keep reading to learn how interesting wandering the black forest can be.
Overview of Germany
Germany is a European country with nine borders to other nations. It is a very economically stable country that was once divided into an eastern and western sectors during the Cold War. The Soviet Union controls the eastern sector while The United States, Great Britain, and France occupied the western sector.
The two sectors joined together in 1989 to form one large nation with a variety of cultures throughout its regions – each region has its own identity which makes for fascinating exploration.
Many people are surprised to find that Germany is also a very modern and technologically advanced nation. It has highly developed transportation systems, including high-speed trains and highways as well as an outstanding public transportation system in its major cities. Many people who live in German cities never own cars because it’s so easy to take advantage of the many options for getting around.
Newspapers and magazines are widely read throughout the country as well as internet use which is almost equal to that of Great Britain and France together! Also radio and TV broadcasting stations reach every city and town in the country, with local channels available just about everywhere.
The population is approximately 82 million people with a life expectancy of 77 years (men) and 81 years (women). The gross domestic product per person is $33,600 per year and the currency used is the euro.
Wandering the Black Forest – Home of Grimm’s Fairy Tale
The Black Forest is located in southwest Germany near the French border and shares part of its western border with Switzerland. The area was originally occupied by Celts before it became home to Germanic tribes. Its location in southwestern Germany offered protection from invaders and encouraged trade along the Rhine River, which flows through this region and into France.
When talking about Germany you cannot forget to mention its fairytale past with brothers Wilhelm (born 1786) and Jacob Grimm (born 1785), who were born nine months apart in a small German town called Hanau in Hesse-Cassel (Hesse). Their father was a lawyer who worked for Prince William II of Hesse-Kassel.
The two brothers were very close and spent a great deal of time together sharing many interests such as languages, law and history. It was Wilhelm who first expressed interest in collecting folk tales; he believed it would be both an enjoyable and profitable endeavor. The Grimm brothers travelled throughout the German countryside talking to people and gathering all kinds of stories: fairytales, legends, fables and ghost stories among others.
Every story had some basis in fact or was exaggerated over time so that it ran the risk of losing its original meaning. For example, “Little Red Riding Hood” actually meant that hunters wore red cloaks while they tracked animals during the day. Over time however, this emblematic color changed to a garment of the opposite gender and the meaning became distorted.
Where Does the Name the Black Forest Come from?
The name Black Forest or Schwarzwald in German goes back to the early 19th century. The reason it got its name is currently unknown but there are several theories about the naming. One version of this story begins with a group of hunters who set out to explore the forest. After days of unsuccessfully hunting for game they decide to go home, but soon become lost! They wander around aimlessly until they finally come across some shepherds who tell them that if they continue straight ahead they will eventually find their way home.
When these hunters finally came back home their clothes were covered in dirt and looked quite black – thus the name Black Forest was born. The second theory claims that since dark evergreen trees cover of this majestic forest, travelers believed that they were wandering through a ‘black’ forest.
Coordinates of Germany’s the Black Forest
The coordinates of the Black Forest are: 48.5 degrees North, 7.8 degrees East.
What do You Need to Prepare when Traveling to the Black Forest in Germany?
There are a few things you should keep in mind before traveling to the Black Forest in Germany. First of all, make sure you have a valid passport – your US passport will be alright for this trip.
Secondly, you’ll need to purchase some euros since this is the currency in Germany. You can either do this at your bank or online through websites such as Travelex. Finally, it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly. This area of Germany is known for its cold winters and humid summers so make sure to bring clothes that will keep you warm and comfortable!
Suitable Means of Transportation to the Black Forest
The best way to get to the Black Forest is by car. There are several highways that will take you there and it’s a relatively easy drive. Especially if you’re to driving on the right side of the road. You can also take the train but this will be a bit easier. It is because there will be multiple transfers otherwise. If you’re looking for an adventure, why not try traveling by bike? There are plenty of scenic routes that will take you through the forest and past some beautiful villages. Just be sure to pack accordingly and always wear a helmet!
Where to Stay in the Black Forest, Germany
You can accommodate yourself just about anywhere in the Black Forest. There are numerous hotels, guest houses and bed and breakfasts for you to choose from with many of them offering exceptional service. Don’t forget – when it comes to food, Germans know their stuff so make sure you try some of the local fares!
Lost in the Black Forest – Home of Grimm’s Fairy Tale
As you can see, the Black Forest is a place of mystery and intrigue. It’s no wonder that it served as the inspiration for some of Grimm’s most famous fairy tales. So next time you find yourself in Germany, be sure to take a trip to this enchanting forest. It is sure to make you lose yourself in its dark embrace!
Autumn: the Black Forest Puts on a New Shirt
A fresh wardrobe of greens and reds is broken up by frosted sprigs of yellow, reminding us that even if life’s journey begins in darkness, it doesn’t have to end that way. Maybe some magic can be found through careful exploration of its vistas and vast expanse along the winding trails. You’ll experience a sense of weightlessness when you’re lost among the pines and firs, traveling up into the sky with every step you take. The world around you practically disappears in this green-black blur; where once stood an ordinary woods appears something marvelous, like a land out of time where the rules don’t apply – not unlike memories over which one might weep. For many these scenes hold a mystical power, and if you allow yourself to be in enchantment by the forest’s magic you’ll quickly understand why.
Black Forest Hiking
Hiking in the Black Forest can be a great experience. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First of all, the trails can be quite difficult to navigate so it’s a good idea to bring a map. Second of all, the weather can change quickly in this area so it’s important to dress in layers. Finally, make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks as there are no restaurants or stores along the trails.
Conclusion
To conclude, wandering the black forest is a fantastic experience if you keep the above advice in mind. The Black Forest is teeming with mystery and enchantment, which alone makes it worth the trip. Just remember to always carry a map along with a navigator and don’t be afraid to ask for directions! Make sure to watch some survival skills from famous reality tv shows prior to visiting the forest and always carry first aid.
Other place we recommend to you: Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany
Enjoy your trip to the Black Forest!
