To the south-west of the state of Baden-Wuerttemberg, the Black Forest, Germany’s highest secondary mountain range, extends across 100 miles. City travellers will find many things to do in large spruce forests and on the shores of crystal-clear lakes in summer and in winter. Activities on offer: Hiking, swimming and all types of water sports are just as popular as downhill and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Fans of winter sports especially appreciate the ski resort Feldberg on the slopes of the highest mountain of the area, measuring more than 1,500 yards and spoiling visitors with great pistes and modern lifts. One of the most popular skiing trails runs from the peak of Feldberg mountain via the Immisberg mountain to the northwest.

Adventurous hiking paths along picturesque Black Forest farms will lead you to the Wutachschlucht gorge with spectacular cliffs rising more than 175 yards high and to the Titisee Lake, one of the most popular destinations for travellers on a city trip in the Black Forest. Cosy hotels and holiday homes await here. Wind surfers and sailors will feel right at home on the lake. A breathtaking hiking path leads to the Triberg waterfalls. The Gutach river plunges down more than 165 yards. The little town of Alpirsbach is at the centre of the romantic setting in the Kinzig valley. While on your mini-break, be sure to visit the Romance abbey Kloster Alpirsbach. The former Benedictine Abbey impresses with a three-naved basilica dedicated to St. Nicholas and built in 1133. On the inside of the church, marvel at delicate sculptures, a precious high altar shrine and artistic epitaphs.

One of the highlights during a city trip to the Black Forest is Castle Altensteig. Built as a fortress in the 13th century, the castle proudly sits atop a village made of half-timbered buildings on the upper course of the Nagold river. Inside the defiant walls, the local history museum invites you to marvel at the exhibits across four stories. Among them, you will find significant archaeological finds from the Nagold valley, a scale model of the historical narrow-gauge railway “Altensteigerle” and a late Gothic timber structure with masterly carvings. Throughout the year, the castle is home to exhibitions, concerts, theatre performances and festivals which draw a high number of visitors. The Altensteiger Jester Meet in early July is extremely popular.

In the Ortenau region on the western rim of the Black Forest, the municipality of Rust awaits with the largest adventure park in Germany. While on your short trip, enjoy more than 100 attractions and exciting shows. The Europa Park Rust opened in 1975 and impresses with eleven roller coasters, among them the Silver Star with top speeds of 80 mph and the first water roller coaster in Europe. Recurring events, such as cabarets, dance performances, acrobatics and magic shows regularly impress international guests. The Euro Dance Festival in February draws crowds of dancing fans from all over the world.

Q: Should I book a car while on holiday in Black Forest?

A: Why spend time waiting on public transportation when you could be cruising in your own rental car? Whether you're heading to Karlsruhe, Freiburg im Breisgau or another major city, a car is one of the best ways to soak up the sights. If you're heading out into the region of Baden-Wuerttemberg or even farther afield, a rental makes even more sense. For Cheap Car Hire in Black Forest, Expedia should be your first port of call.

Q: What are the most popular types of hotels for a holiday to Black Forest?

A: Some of the most readily available types of accommodation in Black Forest include apartments, guest houses and pensions. You might also like to consider one of the hotels. You'll find all of these property types on Expedia.

Q: What does a Black Forest holiday booking with Expedia include?

A: Everything from hotels to flights and car rentals. You can book just one or two or combine the lot. Expedia also offers a great range of experiences and activities to help make your Black Forest escape even more wonderful.

Q: What is the best way to save money on my holiday to Black Forest?

A: Here at Expedia, we work hard to help you get the best deals. So, when you combine your Flight, Hotels and more, you know you'll save a few dollars. Plan your next getaway with us today and hit the ground in Black Forest with a little extra money in your pocket.

Q: What are the best things to do in Black Forest?

A: There are tons of opportunities when exploring Karlsruhe. If you're not sure where to begin, make your way to Kaiserstraße, Karlsruhe Convention Centre and Wildparkstadion.

If in Freiburg im Breisgau, you'll have fun at Bachle and University Church. Freiburg’s Exhibition and Conference Centre is also an in-demand choice.

And if your final destination is in Pforzheim, we'd recommend exploring Jewellery Museum Pforzheim, Theatre Pforzheim and Alpengarten Pforzheim.