The Heart of the Black Forest Triberg, Triberg, Germany (B)

At the heart of land renowned for exquisite hand carved cuckoo clocks, Black Forest Cherry Cake and the mysterious setting of many a Grimm Brother’s fairy tales lies the town of Triberg. Located in the Kinzig and Gutach Valleys, the surrounding landscape is some of the most quintessential of the region as roads wind hither and tither through thick forests and rolling hills. It’s here that you’ll find Germany’s highest waterfall and two of the world’s largest cuckoo clocks.

When the temperature drops and most of the tourists avoid visiting in the winter, the Black Forest changes into a winter wonderland. Fluffy white snow covers the rolling hills and the pine forest, castles and lakes. There is no question in my mind as to why so many of the Grimm Brothers‘ fairy tales take place here, for example Little Red Riding Hood, Hansel & Gretel, Rapunzel and Sleeping Beauty.

The history of the Black Forest reaches as far back as the time of the Romans who found the weather and conditions harsh and unbearable, therefore, the growth of this region took centuries to develop. The region earned its name from the alpine trees which lock out the light, giving the area a mysterious feeling. Today, hefty half-timbered farmhouses scatter the hillsides and the region is predominately known for its beautiful woodwork which entertained the farmers during the long winters. By the end of the 17th century, woodworkers began producing clocks made entirely out of wood, therefore, making clocks more affordable. Triberg is today one of the most touristy places in the Black Forest, but it once rose to prominence for having the purest air quality.  ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).