Driving the B500 Black Forest High Road (Schwarzwaldhochstrasse) : scenic route, map & best stops
Have you ever dreamed of driving along winding mountain roads, lined with lush forests, endless rolling hills and some of the most beautiful scenery in Germany? If the answer is yes, then driving the B500, also known as the Black Forest High Road deserves a spot on your bucket list!
Known locally as the Schwarzwaldhochstrasse, the Black Forest High Road is one of Germany's most scenic driving routes. Renowned for its stunning vistas and charming towns, the B500 is about 60km long, stretching between Baden-Baden and Freudenstadt. The road takes you high into the northern Black Forest, with sweeping bends and panoramic viewpoints, it offers a driving experience like no other.
We've explored the Black Forest plenty, in both summer and winter, and driving the B500 has been one of our favourite experiences! In this guide we'll share everything you need to know about driving the Black Forest High Road, including a B500 Germany route map, the best places to stop and tips for planning your own Black Forest road trip. We've also included our favourite detour towards Triberg, Schonach and Freiburg if you'd like to explore more of the region.
B500 Black Forest High Road at a glance
- Route name: Black Forest High Road / Schwarzwaldhochstraße
- Official scenic route: Baden-Baden to Freudenstadt
- Distance: around 60 km (37 miles) of B500 itself, and about 3-4 hours of driving end to end with the Triberg detour and the run down to Freiburg
- Driving time: Around 1.5 hours without sightseeing stops
- Recommended time: 1-2 days
- Starting point: Baden-Baden
- Finishing point: Freudenstadt, or continue into the southern Black Forest towards Freiburg im Breisgau
- Best stops: Mummelsee, the northern Black Forest ridge, Triberg Waterfalls, the giant cuckoo clock at Schonach and Schluchsee
- Best time to drive: The best time to visit is from May to September for green scenery and clear roads; December for snow and Christmas markets
- Umweltplakette: not required for the road itself, but needed for towns such as Baden-Baden and Freiburg
We suggest allowing at least half a day to enjoy the Black Forest High Road itself, rather than simply driving from one end to the other. If you want to include additional stops, three days are ideal for Freiburg, Triberg or Titisee.
What is the B500 Black Forest High Road?
The B500 goes by many names. You may see B500, Black Forest High Road or Schwarzwaldhochstrasse. However, it's not just any route. The B500 is one of the most famous scenic roads in Germany, winding its way through the heart of the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) in the state of Baden-Württemberg. The best-known section is the Schwarzwaldhochstraße, (Black Forest High Road), which runs for approximately 60 km between the elegant spa town of Baden-Baden in the north to Freudenstadt in the south.
The B500 is Germany's oldest scenic road, established in 1930 and was completed as a continuous scenic route in the 1950s. It is renowned for its elevated mountain scenery, sweeping corners and incredible views over the Rhine valley. On a clear day, you can even see the Vosges Mountains in neighbouring France!
B500 Schwarzwaldhochstrasse Map
Our B500 Black Forest route map covers two options: the classic Schwarzwaldhochstraße between Baden-Baden and Freudenstadt, and an extended scenic drive through the Black Forest, incorporating some of our favourite places.
If you're short on time, we'd recommend concentrating on the official Black Forest High Road. However, if you have a full day or more, the extended route is a fantastic way to see more of the region.
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Highlights of the Black Forest High Road
From quaint, picturesque towns and villages, to stunning view points and natural wonders. Here are a few of our favourite highlights from driving the B500.
Baden-Baden: where the Black Forest High Road begins
Your B500 road trip begins in Baden-Baden, an elegant spa town on the western edge of the Black Forest.
Famous for its thermal baths, beautiful architecture and relaxed atmosphere, Baden-Baden is well worth exploring before heading into the mountains.
If you have time, wander through the historic town centre, stroll along the beautiful Lichtentaler Allee or enjoy a relaxing visit to one of the town's famous thermal spas.
Northern Black Forest Ridge: the most scenic stretch of the B500
From Baden-Baden follow the B500 and climb into the northern Black Forest, where the scenery really starts to impress with its views over the Rhine valley.
The road winds through thick woodland, gradually gaining elevation before opening up to beautiful views across the surrounding mountains and Rhine Valley. This section of the B500 features wide, flowing curves rather than tight hairpins turns and occasional straight stretches where you can really appreciate the incredible scenery.
However, one thing we've learned from our visits is that the weather can change quickly at higher elevations. If you have some flexibility with your itinerary, it's worth checking the weather forecast before setting off, particularly if you're hoping to enjoy the panoramic viewpoints.
Note: Traffic can get busy on the northen section of the B500, so plan your time wisely.
Mummelsee: a beautiful mountain lake on the B500
Mummselsee is a glacial lake at 1,036 meters and is one of the most popular stops long the Black Forest High Road.
It's an incredibly picturesque spot, surrounded by dense forest and the slopes of Hornisgrinde, one of the highest mountains in the northern Black Forest. There's an easy walking trail around the lake, which takes about 20 minutes, making it a great place to stretch your legs. If you're feeling more adventurous, you can also follow one of the hiking trails towards Hornisgrinde for incredible views across the Black Forest.
You'll find parking, a hotel and a restaurant here. Be sure to treat yourself to a slice of traditional Black Forest cake!
Visiting tip: Because Mummselsee is a popular stop on the B500, we'd recommend visiting in the morning for a quieter experience.
Hornisgrinde: panoramic views across the Black Forest
If you have time for a short hike during your Black Forest road trip, Hornisgrinde is one of the best places to visit. At 1,164 metres, Hornisgrinde is the highest mountain in the northern Black Forest and offers spectacular views across the surrounding landscape, stretching across the Rhine Valley and towards France.
We'd recommend allowing at least an hour for a visit, and longer if you want to explore the walking trails.
Freudenstadt: the southern end of the Black Forest High Road
As you continue south, you'll head towards Freudenstadt, the traditional finishing point of the Schwarzwaldhochstraße.
Freudenstadt is famous for its enormous market square, one of the largest in Germany, surrounded by attractive arcaded buildings, cafés and restaurants. It's a great place to stop for lunch or spend a little time exploring before continuing your journey.
Extending your B500 road trip: Triberg, Schonach and the southern Black Forest
Although the classic Black Forest High Road finishes at Freudenstadt, there's so much more of the Black Forest to discover!
When we explored the region, we chose to extend our journey towards Triberg and Freiburg, rather than simply following the official scenic route to its endpoint. This takes you away from parts of the classic Schwarzwaldhochstraße, but it's a fantastic option if you want to experience more of the Black Forest's famous attractions.
Triberg: the famous Black Forest waterfalls
Triberg is one of the most famous towns in the Black Forest, and it's a destination definitely worth considering as part of an extended road trip.
The town is best known for its spectacular Triberg waterfalls, which drop a total of 163 meters. There are several walking routes around the waterfalls, allowing you to enjoy different viewpoints along the way.
Triberg itself is also lovely to explore, with traditional shops, cosy restaurants and plenty of opportunities to pick up a Black Forest souvenir.
Schonach: visit a giant Black Forest cuckoo clock
Nearby in the village of Schonach, you'll find the Black Forest's largest cuckoo clock! Clockmaking has been an important part of the region's history for centuries, and the Black Forest is particularly famous for its beautifully crafted cuckoo clocks.
The giant clock building in Schonach is an impressive creation, complete with traditional mechanisms and intricate detailing.
Schluchsee: one of the most beautiful lakes in the Black Forest
If you're continuing farther south, Schluchsee is another beautiful destination to add to your Black Forest road trip.
As the largest lake in the Black Forest, Schluchsee is surrounded by forested hills and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. During summer, you can enjoy boat trips, swimming, walking and cycling around the lake. With so much to do, it's a great stop if you're visiting as a family or as a group.
Freiburg: finish your Black Forest road trip
Though not directly on the B500, Freiburg im Breisgau is one of our favourite cities in the Black Forest region and makes a fantastic place to finish your road trip.
Located on the western edge near the French border, Freiburg is famous for its beautiful medieval old town, lively atmosphere and impressive Gothic cathedral.
The historic centre is full of cobbled streets, colourful buildings and traditional restaurants. If you're visiting during December, Freiburg is also home to a wonderful Christmas market, making it an especially lovely place to explore during a winter Black Forest road trip.
This region of the Black Forest is also a great spot for crossing the Swiss border and exploring further afield too.
B500 driving directions: how to follow the Black Forest High Road
One thing we discovered while planning our own B500 road trip was that Google Maps doesn't always make it easy to follow the exact scenic route you want.
Depending on your destination and the route you select, your satnav may suggest faster roads that bypass sections of the Schwarzwaldhochstraße. Here's how we'd recommend navigating the classic route.
Start in Baden-Baden
From Baden-Baden, follow signs for the B500 and Schwarzwaldhochstraße, heading south into the northern Black Forest. The road begins climbing into the mountains, passing through forested scenery and towards the higher viewpoints.
Continue towards Mummelsee
Stay on the B500 towards Mummelsee. This is one of the most scenic sections of the drive, with beautiful woodland surroundings and panoramic views as you gain elevation. We highly recommend making Mummelsee one of your main stops.
Follow the B500 towards Ruhestein
From Mummelsee, continue south along the B500 towards Ruhestein. You'll pass more forest scenery and opportunities to stop and enjoy the views. If you have time, consider visiting Hornisgrinde or exploring some of the walking trails around Ruhestein.
Continue towards Freudenstadt
At Ruhestein, the scenic route continues towards Freudenstadt. Follow the road signs rather than relying entirely on your satnav, particularly if you're trying to stay on the classic Schwarzwaldhochstraße. The route uses connecting sections of road, including the B28, as it heads towards Freudenstadt.
Continue south if you're extending your road trip
From Freudenstadt, you can explore other parts of the Black Forest, including Triberg, Titisee, Schluchsee and Freiburg.
Important: This is an alternative route, rather than the continuation of the classic Black Forest High Road. We found it helpful to enter individual stops into Google Maps rather than simply setting Freiburg as our final destination.
Freiburg is also the gateway the rest of the Black Forest! From here you can explore so much more of the region. Our particular favourite is a small town called Todtnau, but you can visit Titisee, Feldberg, Belchen, Hinterzarten and more! We have written a list of 10 things to do in Todtnau if you're new to the area.
When to drive the Black Forest High Road?
We've visited the Black Forest during both summer and winter, so it's safe to say there's no bad time to visit this area! Each season offers completely different experiences, from lush green mountains and beautiful lakes to snow-covered forests and magical Christmas markets. Our preference is actually winter, having spent Christmas in the Black Forest. The best time to visit really depends on the experience you're looking for.
Spring / Summer: May to August
Throughout May to August, the Black Forest is lush and vibrant. Flowers are in bloom and those rolling alpine meadows looked freshly plucked from The Sound of Music. This is the perfect time of year for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
This is a fantastic time to drive the B500, particularly if you want to enjoy the viewpoints and explore some of the walking trails around Mummelsee and Ruhestein. However, summer is one of the busiest periods, particularly during weekends and school holidays.
Autumn: September to October
Autumn is another beautiful time to explore the Black Forest High Road. The forests transform into a mixture of golden, orange and red tones, creating some truly spectacular scenery. The roads are also often quieter than during the peak summer months, making it a lovely time for a scenic drive.
However, autumn can also bring rain, mist and slippery leaves on the road, so take extra care when driving through the mountains.
Winter: November to March
Winter in the Black Forest is the most magical time of year! Snowfall can happen as early as November and as late as March, but there's nothing quite like seeing the forests and mountains covered in a thick blanket of snow. This is the perfect place for skiing, snowboarding, and cosying up with a mug of glühwein. We visited in December over the Christmas period and were very lucky to experience our own winter wonderland.
Germany is much more prepared for snow than we are in the UK. Major roads are regularly cleared and gritted, so you should have no issues driving the B500. However, snow, ice and poor visibility can still make mountain driving challenging. Also be aware that winter tyres are compulsory this time of year.
Is the B500 a difficult road to drive?
Not particularly, although there are some winding sections and steep gradients. The B500 is a well-maintained, paved road, and you don't need a specialist vehicle to drive it.
Do you need an Umweltplakette?
An Umweltplakette is an environmental emissions sticker used in certain low-emission zones (Umweltzones) across Germany.
These zones are established to reduce air pollution, particularly in urban areas. You don't need an Umweltplakette simply to drive the Black Forest High Road, as the scenic B500 itself is not an environmental zone. However, you may need one if your wider Black Forest road trip takes you into a city with an active low-emission zone.
At the time of writing, the below destinations required e an Umweltplakette. However rules can change, so check the current restrictions for any cities you're planning to visit:.
- Baden-Baden: This town has a low-emission zone, so if you plan to explore the town or stay overnight, you will need an Umweltplakette.
- Freiburg im Breisgau: Freiburg is a common detour for those exploring the southern Black Forest. Freiburg has a low-emission zone, so an Umweltplakette is necessary if you drive into the city.
How to get an Umweltplakette?
The emissions sticker is only applicable if you're taking own car from the UK. If you're hiring a car in Germany they will already have the sticker in place.
We typically buy ours online from TÜV directly. We order ours about 1 month before the trip and it's usually delivered to us in the UK within 2 weeks. It's a low-cost sticker, so it's an easy one to sort well ahead of your trip. It's worth noting the sticker is mandatory, even if you drive an EV!
Tips for driving the B500 Black Forest High Road
Before setting off on your Black Forest road trip, there are a few things worth knowing:
1. Check the weather before setting off
The B500 climbs to over 1,000 metres, so weather conditions can be very different from those in nearby towns and valleys. We experienced sun, rain, thick cloud and snowy conditions in the Black Forest, so we'd recommend checking the mountain forecast before you set off. If the forecast is particularly poor, consider adjusting your plans, especially if you're hoping to enjoy the panoramic viewpoints.
2. Allow more time than your satnav suggests
Although the classic Black Forest High Road is only around 60km long, this isn't a route to rush. There are so many beautiful places to stop, and part of the enjoyment is taking your time and appreciating the scenery.
3. Fill up before heading into the mountains
There are fewer petrol stations along some of the more remote sections of the B500. We'd recommend filling up in Baden-Baden or another larger town before setting off, particularly if you're planning a longer route through the Black Forest.
4. Use designated parking areas and viewpoints
You'll find several parking areas and lay-bys along the Black Forest High Road, making it easy to stop and enjoy the scenery. Some of these spots can fill up quickly during the peak of summer, so plan your stops accordingly.
5. Consider staying overnight
If you have the time, we'd definitely recommend spending at least one night in the Black Forest.
There are plenty of traditional hotels and beautiful villages where you can base yourself. An overnight stay also gives you the flexibility to explore some of the region's hiking trails, lakes and nearby towns.
6. Don't forget your European driving essentials
If you're driving from the UK, make sure your vehicle meets the requirements for driving in Germany.
Depending on your vehicle and journey, this may include headlamp adjustments, a UK identifier, safety equipment and the correct documentation. Make sure you have your European Driving Kit in the car ready.
Is driving the B500 Black Forest High Road worth it?
Absolutely! If you're planning a Black Forest road trip, we'd definitely recommend including the B500 Schwarzwaldhochstraße in your itinerary.
For us, it's one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the region. The combination of winding mountain roads, beautiful forests, panoramic viewpoints and picturesque lakes makes the journey feel like an adventure in itself. We've fallen in love with this region over our visits, and we're sure you will too!
Get in touch
We hope this B500 Black Forest road trip guide was helpful! It's such a special place, you're bound to fall in love with it as much as we did! If you have any questions please leave a comment below, we'd love to hear from you! If you found our blog helpful, check out our Insta @welovetravel.in - if you give us a follow feel free to drop us a message and say hello 👋
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