Winter Wonderland in the Black Forest

Day 1

After an early morning departure, we cross the English Channel by ferry with an overnight stop in France.

Day 2

We continue our journey with a visit to Strasbourg along the way. One of Europe's most beautiful cities, you'll find a unique mix of Franco-German culture and gothic architecture. Constructed from pink sandstone, Strasbourg's magnificent cathedral towers over the city provide spectacular views of the city below and the Black Forest. We also recommend a visit to 'Petite France', a picturesque riverside district you will remember. We continue our journey, crossing the border into Germany and arriving at our hotel in the Black Forest, where you'll enjoy traditional schnapps upon arrival.

Day 3

This morning, we head to charming Triberg. World-renowned for its cuckoo clocks, picturesque landscapes, and Germany's highest waterfall, a visit to the town's Black Forest Museum is highly recommended. This versatile museum focuses on the lives of the Black Forest residents throughout history, exhibiting four centuries of locally made cuckoo clocks, music boxes, and winter sports, among other things. We return to our hotel this afternoon for a demonstration of the creation of Black Forest Gateau and the opportunity to try this sweet regional speciality.

Day 4

We enjoy a leisurely start for the opportunity to explore the picturesque village of Oberharmersbach, the perfect place to glimpse into traditional German life, which includes a guided walking tour. This afternoon, we visit a local farm shop and schnapps distillery for an insight into how it's made. With tastings along the way, you can also bring this fiery beverage home to share!

Day 5

Today's excursion takes us on a scenic drive through the beautiful Black Forest to Freiburg, a medieval city overlooked by castle ruins; we recommend exploring the town's daily market, which surrounds the town's minister and is home to 'The Red Bear', one of Germany's oldest inns. We continue to the spa town of Titisee-Neustadt; found on the shores of Lake Titisee in the 'High' Black Forest, you'll find one of Germany's most beautiful lakes and a true winter wonderland at this time of year. Enjoy some free time exploring this small town, home to a model train museum, restaurants and a host of cafes.

Day 6

After breakfast, we bid our German hosts farewell and head to the pretty spa town of Baden-Baden. Built on thermal springs, Baden-Baden has been a popular spa retreat for centuries, boasting plenty to see and do! From here, we continue to our overnight hotel.

Day 7

We return home today, crossing the Channel before continuing north to the East Midlands.

B=Breakfast, D=Dinner