Westweg

The classic ridge walk of the Black Forest, the Westweg runs about 285 km from Pforzheim in the north to Basel on the Swiss border, following the high western crest of the range. Germany's oldest long-distance path, marked since 1900 with a red diamond, it takes most walkers twelve to thirteen days.

It keeps to the heights wherever it can, crossing the dark spruce forests, open summit moors and glacial cirques of the northern and southern Black Forest. Highlights include the Feldberg, the range's highest point, the wild Wutach gorge nearby, and viewpoints that reach across to the Vosges and, on clear days, the distant Alps.

Walking is moderate to strenuous, with steady forest climbs and a few long stages, though the terrain is never technical and the red-diamond waymarking is famously reliable. Guesthouses, mountain inns and small hotels line the route, so camping is unnecessary, and the region's dense transport network makes section walking easy. No permit is required.

Created in 1900 by the Black Forest Club, the Westweg pioneered the German idea of the marked long-distance ridge trail and inspired many that followed. The best season is May to October; early summer brings the forest floor to life and clears the last snow from the Feldberg, while autumn offers crisp air and colour. The high moors can be cold and wet even in summer, so layers are advisable.