by Dominik Rotzinger
I’ve traveled far and wide, but there’s nowhere quite like home. My name is Dominik Rotzinger, and I was born and raised in the heart of the Black Forest—St. Georgen, Germany. And let me tell you, I’ll never leave this place. There’s something magical about living here, and if you ever visit, you’ll quickly understand why.
When people hear “Black Forest,” a few things probably come to mind: the famous Black Forest Cherry Cake, the world-renowned Black Forest Ham, and, of course, the cuckoo clocks that have been handcrafted here for generations. But there’s so much more. Our region is rich in culture, from the traditional Black Forest costumes (you might have heard about the “Bollenhut” hat with its red pom-poms) to the deeply rooted customs that bring our communities together.
Beyond the traditions, though, the real star of the Black Forest is the landscape. Towering mountains, dense forests, and crisp winter air—it’s breathtaking year-round. Whether it’s the first snowfall of the season or a sunny summer day, there’s always a reason to step outside and explore.
There are a few places you simply can’t miss when visiting. First up, the Triberg Waterfalls—Germany’s highest waterfalls, a stunning natural wonder surrounded by lush forest. Then there’s the Vogtsbauernhöfe Open-Air Museum, where you can step back in time and see how life used to be in the Black Forest’s historic farmhouses. And if you’re looking for a bit of city charm, Freiburg is the place to go, with its cobblestone streets, impressive cathedral, and lively atmosphere.
For those who love finding hidden gems, I have a few personal favorites. The Feldberg, standing at 1,493 meters, is the highest peak in the Black Forest and offers some of the best hiking and skiing. Then there’s the Titisee, a picturesque lake surrounded by beautiful scenery. And if you’re in the mood for something quirky, you have to see the world’s biggest cuckoo clock in Schonach—it’s truly something else.
One of the best things about the Black Forest is that it’s a destination for all seasons. Spring brings blooming meadows and fresh mountain air, summer is perfect for hiking and lake adventures, autumn covers the hills in golden hues, and winter? That’s my personal favorite. There’s nothing like a snowy Black Forest landscape—it’s like stepping into a fairy tale.
Let’s talk about food. The region's cuisine is hearty, flavorful, and something you absolutely have to experience. Start with Black Forest Vespers, a platter of ham, bacon, black sausage, cheese, and fresh farmer’s bread—perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Then, try cheese spätzle, a rich and cheesy noodle dish, or Strasbourg sausage salad, a delicious regional specialty. And of course, you can’t leave without indulging in Black Forest Cherry Cake—layers of chocolate sponge, cherries, and whipped cream that melt in your mouth.
For the best local dining, I recommend Gasthaus Zur Staude, where you’ll find traditional Black Forest dishes in a cozy setting. If you’re in Freiburg, stop by Hausbrauerei Feierling, a brewery serving its own craft beer alongside delicious food. Near the open-air museum, Weber’s Esszeit offers a mix of classic and contemporary regional cuisine. For something truly charming, Zum Kuckuck in Villingen-Schwenningen is a must-visit.
Markets are a great way to experience the culture. The Münster-Market in Freiburg, held Monday through Saturday, is a bustling hub of fresh produce, local crafts, and regional specialties. The Nature Park Markets showcase handmade goods and Black Forest delicacies, and for beer lovers, a visit to Rothaus Brewery is essential.
If you time your visit right, you can experience one of our many local festivals. Almost every village has its own annual celebration filled with food, beer, music, and good company. One of the biggest events is the Freiburg Tent Music Festival, which hosts live performances over two weeks. And if you visit during winter, the Christmas markets are nothing short of magical.
Then there’s Carnival—one of our most beloved traditions. From Thursday to Tuesday, the region bursts into celebration with parades, parties, and uniquely carved wooden masks worn by carnival clubs. It’s an experience like no other.
If it’s your first time in the Black Forest, here’s my advice:
Be open to meeting people—we’re friendly and love sharing our culture.
Plan your excursions in advance—there’s so much to see and do, and you won’t want to miss out.
Try all the food—seriously, every dish is worth tasting.
Most importantly, take your time and enjoy.
Looking for a spot to relax? The Badeparadies Schwarzwald is a fantastic spa and swimming paradise perfect for unwinding. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Europa-Park, Germany’s largest theme park, has thrilling roller coasters and attractions. And for a peaceful retreat with a stunning view, take the cable car up Schauinsland near Freiburg.
There’s something special about living here. The fresh mountain air, the deep connection to tradition, the food, the people—everything about this place feels like home. I was born here, and I know one thing for sure: I’ll never leave. If you visit, even just once, I think you’ll understand why.