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Best forest destinations in Europe

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Black Forest
Dark woods, lakes and hilltop villages
9.3
The range runs about 100 miles from north to south and up to 30 miles wide. Feldberg is the highest peak at 4,898 feet. Winter work by farmers grew into the cuckoo clock trade. The Black Forest National Park opened in 2014 and covers about 24,900 acres. The Romans called the range Silva Marciana.
Highlights:
  • 🍰 Taste Black Forest cake at a local bakery
  • 💦 Stroll through Triberg waterfalls, Europe's highest falls
  • 🏞️ Hike the Schwarzwald Panorama Trail to summit views
Freiburg im Breisgau
Sunny Black Forest gateway with a Gothic minster
7.5
The city is at the southwestern foothills of the Black Forest and serves as a tourist entry point. The Schauinsland cable car runs 2.2 miles from Günterstal and is the longest in Germany. Schlossberg offers wide views and a funicular. Freiburg is known as an eco-city and has 237,460 residents.
Highlights:
  • 🚠 Ride the Schauinslandbahn to explore the Black Forest mountains
  • 🚶‍♀️ Wander through the charming alleys of the old town
  • ⛪ Climb the tower of Freiburg Minster for panoramic views
Bavaria
Alps, castles, beer gardens and old towns
8.6
Germany's first national park opened in the Bavarian Forest on October 7, 1970. It covers about 59,900 acres. The highest peak is Großer Rachel at 4,767 feet. A pair of wolves was found in the park in 2016. With Šumava across the Czech border it forms Central Europe's largest contiguous forest.
Highlights:
  • 🚗 Drive the scenic Romantic Road through medieval towns
  • 🍺 Join Oktoberfest in Munich and raise a stein with locals
  • 🏰 Explore Neuschwanstein Castle, the fairytale icon of Bavaria
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