Scenic Drive into the Black Forest Mountains
Our very first shore excursion was the one I had been anticipating the most! Contrary to what many think, the Black Forest isn’t just a dense wood—it’s a breathtaking mountain range carved with lush valleys, winding streams, and rolling farmland. As our tour bus climbed higher into the hills, we caught our first glimpse of the region’s unique rural lifestyle and stunning working farms.
Stepping Back in Time at the Open-Air Museum
Our first major stop was the Black Forest Open-Air Museum (Vogtsbauernhof), where historic farmhouses from across the region have been preserved and rebuilt. These classic Eindachhof (“single-roof”) farm structures were engineering marvels: the massive thatched roofs covered the living quarters, cattle stalls, barn, and grain storage all under one single roof! Historically, extended families of 20 or more people lived alongside their livestock to stay warm through harsh alpine winters.
While exploring the grounds, we walked through timber-framed barns, admired traditional folk costumes on display, and even spotted a wild white stork nesting in the meadow!
Black Forest Cake & Cuckoo Clock Heaven
You can’t visit the Black Forest without celebrating its two most famous icons: Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte) and authentic wood carvings! After posing for a fun photo in front of a giant slice of cake painted on the wall, we made our way into the House of Black Forest Clocks.
The moment we stepped inside, the rhythmic ticking and soft cuckoos filled the air. These masterpieces are hand-carved by master clockmaker Adolf Herr and his family. Seeing the sheer level of detail, intricate wooden gears, and generations of craftsmanship in person was overwhelming. I knew I wasn’t leaving empty-handed! I found the one, bought it directly from Adolf Herr’s son, and officially walked out happy (and broke!).
Returning to Breisach & St. Stephen’s Cathedral
After an incredible morning in the mountains, we returned toward the Rhine River to explore Breisach am Rhein. Perched high on a volcanic hill overlooking the town stands the towering St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansmünster), a stunning Romanesque and Gothic church built between the 12th and 15th centuries. After snapping a few photos of the castle-like fortress hilltop, we walked back along the river path to board our ship.
Now, I’m just counting down the days until my beautiful, hand-carved cuckoo clock arrives at my front door to fill my home with the sounds of the Black Forest!
