For this hike we went this time to the Black Forest to Neubulach near Bad Liebenzell. Especially in the Black Forest the temperatures were already quite low, but the sun came out and the landscape was not so depressive at the beginning of winter 2020. This time the tour was again about 20 km long, with about 700 m altitude ascent and 700 m descent as a round trip. Basically this tour was very scenic, but the car traffic was very exhausting and needed getting used to because of the high noise level. We did the tour on a Saturday. In the summer on a Sunday it should probably be even more exhausting with all the loud motorcyclists. I would like it to be as quiet as possible and I wouldn’t recommend this again for the summer because of the high noise level.
In this video, I go on a hike near Neubulach and Bad Liebenzell, two towns in the northern Black Forest (Nordschwarzwald) in Baden-Württemberg, Germany. This part of the Black Forest is rich in history, spa culture, and natural beauty. The landscape is shaped by dense forests, river valleys, panoramic ridges, and historic sites, making it a fascinating area to explore on foot.
The hike begins in Neubulach, a small town with a long mining history. For centuries, silver and other minerals were extracted here, and traces of this heritage can still be seen today. The town itself, with its medieval layout and traditional architecture, provides a historic starting point before heading into the surrounding hills and forests. Hiking around Neubulach means combining cultural impressions with the natural atmosphere of the Black Forest.
From Neubulach, the trails lead into the dense woodlands typical of the northern Schwarzwald. Towering spruces and firs create a dark green canopy, while beech and oak add variety at lower levels. The forest paths are quiet and soft underfoot, covered in needles and leaves. In autumn and winter, the mood changes dramatically: leaves cover the ground, the air grows crisp, and sunlight filters gently through the bare branches. The peaceful atmosphere of these woods is one of the highlights of the hike.
The route also connects to Bad Liebenzell, a spa town in the Nagold Valley. Known for its thermal baths and wellness culture, Bad Liebenzell combines relaxation with nature. Above the town rises the Burg Liebenzell (Liebenzell Castle), whose tower dominates the valley. Hiking trails often lead to the castle, where sweeping views open up across the valley and surrounding hills. These viewpoints are especially rewarding in clear weather, when the wide horizon of the Black Forest unfolds.
The Nagold River is another key feature of this region. Flowing through the valley below, it shapes the landscape with its curves and meadows. Walking along riverside paths offers a different atmosphere from the deep forest: open spaces, flowing water, and the sense of life in the valley. Small bridges, fields, and villages add variety along the way, and in the quiet seasons of autumn and winter, the river is calm and reflective.
One of the best parts of hiking here is the contrast between cultural landmarks and natural beauty. On the one hand, you encounter medieval castles, chapels, and historic mining heritage; on the other, you are surrounded by silent woods, wide meadows, and panoramic viewpoints. This balance makes the hike diverse and interesting throughout.
The seasonal character of the Black Forest adds to the experience. In spring, fresh greenery and blossoms brighten the valleys. In summer, the forests provide cool shade for long hikes. Autumn transforms the hills into glowing colours of gold and red, while winter creates a quiet landscape of frost and sometimes snow. Hiking near Neubulach and Bad Liebenzell in the cooler months brings a sense of solitude and reflection, with fewer people on the trails and a peaceful stillness in the air.
This video captures the impression of hiking near Neubulach and Bad Liebenzell in the Black Forest: forest paths, castle viewpoints, riverside trails, and traces of history along the way. It is not a detailed guide but an overview of the atmosphere and variety of the region.
For travelers, Neubulach and Bad Liebenzell are excellent gateways into the northern Black Forest. Together, they offer culture, history, and nature: a mining town with medieval roots, a spa town with wellness traditions, and endless trails that lead into the quiet beauty of the Schwarzwald. Whether you’re here for a short walk, a castle visit, or a full day of hiking, this area provides a memorable way to experience one of Germany’s most iconic landscapes.