This hike took place again in the Black Forest in Germany near Bad Liebenzell in November 2020. The distance was about 22 km with a total ascent of 780 m.
In this video, I go on a hike near Hirsau and Bad Liebenzell, two towns in the northern Black Forest (Nordschwarzwald) in Baden-Württemberg, Germany. This region is famous for its combination of deep forests, historic sites, spa culture, and wide valley views. Hiking here brings together nature, history, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes the northern Black Forest a rewarding place to explore.
The hike begins in the area of Hirsau, a town best known for the ruins of its Benedictine monastery. Once one of the most important monasteries in Germany, its impressive remains still stand today, with tall stone walls and arches rising dramatically against the backdrop of forested hills. Starting a hike here means walking in the footsteps of centuries of history before heading out into the woods.
From Hirsau, the trails lead into the Black Forest valleys and ridges. Tall fir and spruce trees dominate the slopes, while beech and oak are found lower down. The forest atmosphere is immersive: quiet paths covered with needles and leaves, soft light filtering through the trees, and the constant sense of being surrounded by nature. In autumn and winter, the mood is especially calm, with fallen leaves, bare branches, and long shadows creating a reflective atmosphere.
The route also passes near Bad Liebenzell, a spa town located in the Nagold Valley. The town is known for its thermal baths, castle ruins, and relaxing setting along the river. From the valley floor, trails climb into the hills, offering panoramic views across the Nagold Valley and the surrounding ridges. In clear weather, these viewpoints are some of the highlights of the hike, showing the vast expanse of the northern Black Forest.
One of the key attractions here is the Bad Liebenzell Castle (Burg Liebenzell), whose tower stands high above the town. From the castle, the views stretch far across the valley, and the site itself is a reminder of the long history of the region. Hiking routes often connect the castle with other scenic and cultural landmarks, creating a blend of nature and heritage.
The streams and rivers in this part of the Black Forest also shape the hike. The Nagold River, winding through the valley, adds variety and freshness to the landscape. Small wooden bridges, riverside paths, and the sound of flowing water give the hike an extra dimension, contrasting with the stillness of the forest above.
The seasonal atmosphere is another part of the experience. In spring, wildflowers and fresh greenery brighten the valleys. In summer, the forests offer cool shade and long days for hiking. In autumn, the trees glow in warm colours, and in winter, frost and snow create a quiet, magical landscape. Each season gives a different perspective on Hirsau, Bad Liebenzell, and the surrounding hills.
What makes hiking here so rewarding is the variety. The trails pass from towns with deep history into forests full of silence, then up to viewpoints with wide panoramas. Along the way, castles, chapels, and ruins add cultural highlights, while the rivers and streams bring movement and life to the valleys.
This video captures the impression of hiking near Hirsau and Bad Liebenzell in the Black Forest: the monastery ruins, the castle, the forests, the valleys, and the seasonal atmosphere of this part of Germany. It is not a step-by-step hiking guide but rather an overview of the mood and beauty of the region.
For travelers, Hirsau and Bad Liebenzell are excellent starting points to experience the northern Black Forest. Easily reachable, they combine culture, spa traditions, and nature into one destination. Whether for a short hike, a cultural visit, or a full day in the hills, this area offers a balanced and inspiring way to explore one of Germany’s most iconic landscapes.