Getting Oriented

Getting Oriented

The southwest corner of Germany divides itself neatly into two distinct geographical regions. The western half borders France and lies in the wide flat plains of the Rhine valley, where all the larger cities are located. To the east tower the rugged hills of the Black Forest itself, crisscrossed by winding mountain roads and dotted with picturesque villages.

The Northern Black Forest. The gem of the northern Black Forest is the genteel spa town of Baden-Baden, full of quiet charm and dripping with elegance.

The Central Black Forest. The central Black Forest typifies the region as a whole. Alpirsbach's half-timbered houses, Triberg's cuckoo clocks, and the nation's highest waterfalls, all nestle among a series of steep-sided valleys.

The Southern Black Forest. In the south, Freiburg is one of the country's most historic cities, and even the hordes of summer visitors can't quell the natural beauty of the Titisee lake.