The locals will give you a warm welcome in Freiburg, a forward-thinking and proudly green city. French influences are apparent here too due to the close proximity to the border.
Drive through the forest
In Freiburg, you’re surrounded by the dramatic scenery of the dense Black Forest, which occupies 2,320 square miles and extends north-west for around 100 miles.
There are a number of sweeping trails and deserted roads that are a dream for drivers. One of the most beautiful sections of road in the Black Forest is the northern stretch of elevated Schwarzwald Hochstrasse, known as route 500, which offers fantastic views on all sides.
Pass through dense forest before reaching the highest point, from which you can drink in unrivalled vistas of Hornisgrinde. You will find places to stop along the way, so you can park up the car and get out to take in the stunning views. Aim to be here early in the morning when you’ll be able to see the mist settle across the forest as the sun begins to rise.
Discover what life used to be like in the Black Forest
The Vogtsbauernhof Museum can be found just outside Freiburg on the River Gutach in the Black Forest. Step back in time here and retrace the last 400 years at the open-air museum, which beautifully and accurately paints a picture of the history of the region.
Make your way around six fully furnished farmhouses from different parts of the forest and stumble upon a laborer’s cottage. Plus, around 15 outbuildings including mills, sawmills, storehouses, a distillery and a chapel are waiting to be discovered, perfectly bringing to life how people lived throughout the centuries. Wander at your own leisure, absorbing traditions, smells and sights of the region along the way.
Experience the thrill of the rides at Europa-Park
Visit one of the world’s leading theme parks – Germany’s biggest – just north of Freiburg.
Stepping into Europa-Park will take you on a journey across Europe. As you explore more than 100 attractions you’ll ‘visit’ 15 nations, with rides replicating the experience and nature of each of these countries.
Begin your trip in Iceland, where you’ll find a wooden roller coaster and a catapult roller coaster. Head over to France and the ‘Eurosat’ roller coaster, which will take you through dark expanses of space in a thrilling, nail-biting ride. Alongside this, you’ll see one of the highest roller coasters in Europe – the Silver Star – which stands at an amazing 73 meters tall.
Arrange car rental for your trip to Freiburg and you’re in the perfect place to explore the delights of the city and the Black Forest.