From Strasbourg: Black Forest and Baden Baden Day Trip

Key Points

• Full-day trip from Strasbourg lasting approximately 8 hours, including visits to Baden Baden and Mummelsee Lake
• Guided tour led by English-speaking guides in a comfortable, small-group setting limited to 8 participants
• Cross the border into Germany to explore the Black Forest and its famous Black Forest cake and cuckoo clocks
• Visit Baden Baden, a town famous for its architecture, villas, and historic appeal to royalty and celebrities
• Enjoy scenic viewpoints along Schwarzwaldhochstrasse with panoramic views of the Upper Rhine Valley
• Free time at Mummelsee Lake of 800 meters circumference, 17 meters depth, and at an elevation of 1,036 meters
• Stops in picturesque villages like Sasbachwalden, known for its flowered houses and vineyards
• Price of $188 per person offers a comprehensive experience, though entrance fees to attractions are not included

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Baden-Württemberg’s Black Forest & Baden Baden: An 8-Hour Journey from Strasbourg

Taking a full-day trip from Strasbourg directly into Germany’s Black Forest, this tour offers a mix of scenic vistas, charming towns, and cultural highlights. For $188 per person, you’ll enjoy 8 hours of exploration, guided by an English-speaking driver and guide. The small-group setting, limited to 8 participants, ensures a personalized and relaxed experience, praised by many for the attentive guidance.

While the tour is packed with notable stops and picturesque views, it also has some practical considerations. The itinerary includes no entrance fees to attractions, so additional costs for museums or monuments are not covered. The tour operates rain or shine, so pack accordingly, and remember to bring your passport or ID card for border crossings into Germany.

This trip is well-suited for those who appreciate scenic drives, cultural towns, and delicious local foods. It offers a nice balance of guided walking, sightseeing, and free time, making it a flexible choice for travelers eager to see Baden Baden, the Black Forest, and its highlights in one day.

Highlights of the Black Forest and Baden Baden Tour

The tour begins at 17 Place de la Cathédrale in Strasbourg, where travelers meet their English-speaking guide before departing in a modern, comfortable minivan. From there, the journey crosses into Baden-Württemberg, leaving France behind for Germany’s scenic landscape.

In Baden Baden, the guide leads a guided walking tour along the Lichtentaler Allee, showcasing luxurious villas and elegant architecture. This city has historically drawn royalty and celebrities, making its architecture and ambiance especially impressive. Tourists appreciate how the guide shares engaging stories as they stroll through this elegant locale.

Scenic Views and Black Forest Highlights

The tour follows the Schwarzwaldhochstrasse, which offers multiple viewpoints and belvederes. These scenic stops provide stunning scenes of the Upper Rhine Valley and the Vosges Mountains of France in the distance. The Black Forest earns its name from its dark pine trees, and here the landscape is both lush and dramatic.

The Black Forest is also the birthplace of the Black Forest cake and cuckoo clocks, adding cultural flavor to the natural beauty. Travelers enjoy the panoramic vistas and the storytelling about these iconic regional symbols.

Mummelsee Lake: Nature, Relaxation, and Local Flavors

A highlight is the visit to Mummelsee Lake, with 1.5 hours of free time to explore. This lake is the largest, deepest, and highest of the Seven Cirque Lakes, with an 800-meter circumference and a depth of 17 meters. Situated at 1,036 meters elevation, it offers a peaceful setting for walking, photos, and a taste of local treats such as Black Forest cake or cured meats.

Many reviews appreciate the relaxing atmosphere here and the opportunity to enjoy lunch at local eateries during the free time. The lake’s scenic beauty makes it a favorite spot for memorable photographs and peaceful moments.

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Visiting Pittoresque Villages on the Wine Route

Following Mummelsee Lake, the tour continues along the Badischerweinstrasse, Germany’s longest wine route spanning over 500 kilometers. The route is lined with small towns, villages, castles, and vineyards, creating a picturesque journey back towards Strasbourg.

A notable stop is Sasbachwalden, celebrated for its flower-decorated half-timber houses and vineyards. This well-tended village has earned the honor of the “flowering of the villages” award and offers a charming stroll through its streets.

Practicalities and Group Size

The tour departs from 17 Place de la Cathédrale and ends back at the same spot. The small group size, limited to 8 participants, is praised for its intimacy and flexibility. The modern minivan is equipped for comfort and scenic drives, making the day smooth and enjoyable.

Participants should remember to bring passport or ID card for border crossing. The tour does not accommodate pets and is not suitable for those with limited mobility. It operates rain or shine, so appropriate clothing is advised.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The expert guidance and small-group setting stand out, with many reviews noting the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Jerome, Teiry, and Pauline. The scenic viewpoints, luxurious Baden Baden architecture, and relaxing lake visit combine to create a balanced itinerary.

Travelers praise the well-paced stops and the informative narration, which enrich the experience beyond just sightseeing. The free time at Mummelsee and the village walk in Sasbachwalden offer authentic moments not often found on larger tours.

The Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers a rundown of the Black Forest and Baden Baden, entrance fees to attractions are not included. Some may find the long drives between stops a bit tiring, especially if expecting more time at each site. Weather can influence the experience, so packing appropriately is recommended.

The tour is operated only in English, so non-English speakers should be aware of this language limitation. The minimum of two adults is required to confirm the booking, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Final Thoughts on the Black Forest and Baden Baden Trip

This 8-hour guided journey offers a well-rounded experience for those wanting to see Baden Baden’s elegance, explore Black Forest scenery, and enjoy local food like Black Forest cake. The small-group size and expert guides make it a comfortable and personal way to discover Germany’s scenic treasures from Strasbourg.

While some may wish for more time at specific stops, the balance of sightseeing, free time, and scenic drives generally satisfies travelers seeking a relaxed yet enriching day trip. The $188 price point reflects a value-packed experience with plenty of memorable moments and expert commentary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
No, this tour is not recommended for those with limited mobility due to walking and uneven surfaces at some stops.

Do I need to bring my passport?
Yes, participants should bring a passport or ID card for border crossing into Germany, especially due to increased border controls.

Are entrance fees included in the price?
No, entrance fees to monuments, museums, and attractions are not included in the tour fee.

What is the group size?
The tour operates in a small group limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

How long is the free time at Mummelsee Lake?
You have about 1.5 hours to explore the lake, enjoy the scenery, and perhaps have lunch or a snack.

Is the tour weather dependent?
The tour runs rain or shine, so it is wise to prepare for different weather conditions during the day.

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