Teufelsmühle
Teufelsmühle: A Black Forest Landmark
Schwarzwaldhochstraße: A Scenic Drive Through the Black Forest
Experience Germany's iconic Black Forest High Road: panoramic views, thrilling drives, and charming attractions from Baden-Baden to Freudenstadt.
The Schwarzwaldhochstraße, or Black Forest High Road, is a renowned scenic route in Germany, stretching 60 km (37 miles) from Baden-Baden to Freudenstadt. As part of the B500 highway, it offers breathtaking views, charming towns, and various attractions, making it a must-visit destination in the Black Forest.
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A brief summary to Schwarzwaldhochstraße
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
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77889, DE
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Getting There
Driving
The Schwarzwaldhochstraße is part of the B500 highway, accessible from Baden-Baden in the north and Freudenstadt in the south. The route is well-maintained, but drivers should exercise caution on winding sections. Parking is available at scenic spots and attractions along the road. Be aware that parking areas can fill up quickly during peak season. There are no tolls on the B500 itself, but some regional roads or tunnels in the area may have tolls. Parking fees vary depending on the location.
Public Transport
Several bus lines connect towns along the Schwarzwaldhochstraße. Bus lines 423 (Achern - Sasbachwalden - Mummelsee - Hornisgrinde) and 425 (Oppenau - Ottenhöfen - Seebach - Ruhestein - Mummelsee/Hornisgrinde) operate regularly, with increased service on weekends from May 1 to November 1. A single fare for a short trip within the TGO (Tarifverbund Ortenau) region typically costs around €2-4. Some buses offer bicycle transport, but reservations are required.
Local tips
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Drive carefully, especially on winding switchback sections.
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Consider visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the views.
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Ensure your vehicle is equipped with winter tires if driving in winter.
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Refuel before starting the journey, as petrol stations are limited along the route.
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Look for blue 'P' signs for parking areas, especially in popular tourist spots.
Discover more about Schwarzwaldhochstraße
The Schwarzwaldhochstraße, also known as the Black Forest High Road (B500), is Germany's oldest and most famous themed drive. Completed in 1952, this 60-kilometer route runs from Baden-Baden to Freudenstadt, offering a blend of thrilling driving and natural beauty.
The road climbs to the main ridge of the Northern Black Forest, rewarding travelers with panoramic views of the Rhine Valley and the Vosges Mountains. Along the way, it passes several highland hotels and ski areas, including Mehliskopf, Hundseck, Unterstmatt, Mummelsee, Ruhestein, and Schliffkopf. Popular attractions include the Mummelsee, a cirque lake from the last ice age, and the Naturschutzzentrum at Ruhestein, which provides information about the Black Forest National Park.
The route is known for its sweeping corners, smooth switchbacks, and hairpin bends, providing an exhilarating driving experience. Numerous lay-bys allow drivers to stop and soak in the stunning scenery. In winter, the Schwarzwaldhochstraße becomes a hotspot for winter sports enthusiasts, with ski slopes and cross-country ski trails at Mehliskopf, Hundseck, and Ruhestein.
While some older hotels and restaurants along the route have closed, efforts are underway to revitalize the Schwarzwaldhochstraße as a tourist destination, with plans for improved amenities, e-mobility infrastructure, and new accommodation options.
A brief summary to Schwarzwaldhochstraße
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