Feldberg & the Upper Black Forest Through the Year — the Best Time for Your Holiday
When is the best time for the Upper Black Forest?
At 1,493 metres, the Feldberg is the highest peak in the Black Forest — and one of the few places in Germany where every season has its very own character. While spring has long arrived in the valley, snow often still lies up here. And while the height of summer is sweltering elsewhere, a fresh breeze blows around the Seebuck.
The honest answer to the question of the best time to travel is: it depends on what you are looking for. We have put together what makes the Upper Black Forest special in each season — so you can choose the time that suits you.
Spring (April–June) — awakening and open trails
Spring comes late up here, but all the more intensely for it. When the snow melts, the Todtnau Waterfall plunges over the rocks with full force — one of the highest natural waterfalls in Germany. Gentian and arnica bloom on the mountain meadows, and the hiking trails are open and pleasantly empty.
A quick note: at higher elevations there can still be residual snow well into May. Anyone wanting to walk the Feldberg-Steig should pack sturdy shoes and check conditions beforehand.
Summer (July–September) — hiking, swimming, fresh mountain air
Summer is the most versatile time in the Upper Black Forest. While the towns get hot, it stays pleasantly cool at 1,200 to 1,400 metres. That is ideal for hiking — and for anyone who copes badly with the heat.
Cirque lakes, viewing towers and pram-friendly circular trails await around the Feldberg. And if the water is calling: Titisee and Schluchsee invite you to swim, pedal-boat and stand-up paddle. More on this in our article Feldberg in Summer and in the overview Swimming in the Upper Black Forest.
Autumn (October–November) — golden forest and calm
Autumn is an insider tip. The fir and beech forests change colour, the air is clear, and on good days the view from the Feldberg Tower reaches all the way to the Alps. At the same time the trails are far emptier than at the height of summer — in this season the Upper Black Forest is almost yours alone.
What you should know: the days get shorter and the weather can change quickly. If you are planning a longer tour, it is best to start early. You will find all the tips under Feldberg in Autumn.
Winter (December–March) — snow that really stays
The Feldberg is one of the most snow-sure ski areas in Germany and the largest in the Black Forest. But winter here does not only mean skiing: cleared winter hiking trails, snowshoe tours and toboggan slopes make the cold season appealing for non-skiers too.
Read more about skiing in our article Skiing on the Feldberg; the quieter side of winter is shown in Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing.
The perfect base — in every season
No matter when you come: anyone staying in the Upper Black Forest has nature right on the doorstep and saves the long drives to the region’s highlights. That is exactly what makes a holiday apartment on site so practical — the kitchen for a warm meal after a day’s hiking, your own rhythm without fixed breakfast times, and room for the whole family.
Stay with us
In our holiday apartments you stay right in the Upper Black Forest — with self check-in, a fully equipped kitchen and a mountain panorama. Dogs are welcome. If you book directly with us, you pay around 7% less than on Booking.com.