Schau-ins-land (Schauinsland) literally translates to ‘look into the country’ and it’s name could not be more appropriate. With stunning views of the surrounding Black Forest, Rhine River valley, the Vosges Mountains and the Swiss Alps (on a clear day), it is a popular destination for locals and international visitors alike. Located about 10 kilometers (6 miles) south-east of Freiburg’s city center, the mountain is not only easily accessible by public transit, but it offers an abundance of outdoor activities year-round.

Want to learn more about this beautiful Black Forest destination? Check out our post below about Schauinsland. 

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Geography and Location

At 1,284m (4,213ft), Schauinsland is one of the highest peaks in the Black Forest. It’s summit is located in the district of Freiburg and is only about 10 kilometers (6 miles) south-east from Freiburg’s city center. Other neighboring towns are Oberried, Munstertal, Bollschweil and Horben, which offer picturesque living in the Black Forest. In addition, Hofsgrund is another small village located just below the summit of Schauinsland to the south-southeast.

Similar to the highest peak in the Black Forest (Feldberg), Schauinsland can also have a crystal clear view of the Swiss Alps with appropriate weather conditions. The views are most stunning of the Alps and Vosges mountains (France) during a temperature inversion in the Autumn. In addition, you will have uncompromised 360 views of the entire Black Forest and the Rhine Valley.

Are you curious what Schauinsland looks like right now? You can check out the live webcam here.

History of Schauinsland

Although the mountain we know and love is known today as “Schauinsland”, that wasn’t always the case. Historically, the mountain was known as "Erzkasten" (literally "ore box") - a moniker that was a nod to its industrious locale. 

For over 700 years, silver, lead and zinc were mined from the Schauinsland. In fact, the mining operation was so successful that in the Middle Ages that in the 14th century a number of contractors of the mine could afford to donate glass windows to the Freiburg Münster - the beautiful cathedral in the center of Freiburg im Breisgau. 

Although mining production ceased in 1954 due to a lack of profitability, the site has since been converted into a museum for mining and geology enthusiasts since 1997.  On guided tours, visitors are shown a wide range of medieval tunnels and shafts from the final stages of when the mine was in operation.

Getting to Schauinsland, Black Forest

Despite its rugged, country-side location, Schauinsland is surprisingly well connected by public transit and easily accessible by cable car, hiking, biking or by automobile. 

By Cable Car (Schauinslandbahn)

Undoubtedly one of the best ways to experience the mountain and traveling up to Schauinsland is to arrive by cable car. Offering stunning views of the surrounding Black Forest, visitors can enjoy a relaxing ride on Germany’s Longest Cable Car. 

Since 1930, the cable car has been gliding along the 3.6km long route from Freiburg to the Schauinsland. You can enjoy the 20min journey in cable cars for up to 7 passengers which run as often as every 2 minutes, depending on demand, and travel at around 3.5 m/s (13 km/h). 

Interested in taking the Schauinslandbahn AND having breakfast, coffee/cake, or fondue at the Bergstation Restaurant? You can purchase a Kombiticket for a small discount on a combined experience. 

Cost: 

Black Forest Family Tip

If you have purchased a Freiburg Welcomekarte (3 days), the Schauinslandbahn is free for one way or a round trip for all ages.

By Car

Did you know that Schauinsland used to be the home of one of the most epic hill climb races in Europe? It’s true! The winding, twisting roads that scale the summit of Schauinsland was once home to a stage in the world championships. 

Although the races no longer take place on Schauinsland, car enthusiasts are sure to enjoy the drive to the top of the mountain. 

There are limited parking spaces at the top of Schauinsland, although they are free. There is additional overflow parking in the vicinity which is also free.

For navigation purposes, please use this address:

Parkplatz Schlittenlift Schauinsland:

L 124 + 79100 Freiburg (near 79254 Oberried)

Important Notes

If you plan on traveling to Schauinsland by motorcycle, be aware that the Schauinslandstraße is closed for motorcycles on weekends from April 1st through November 1st. Motorcycles are also banned on public holidays.

By S-Bahn & Bus

Visiting Freiburg and want to include a trip to Schauinsland during your stay? The Schauinslandbahn, as well as the top of Schauinsland is very well connected by public transit. 

Visitors should take the S-bahn (street car) Green Line (number 2) to the end of the route. There you will board Bus 21 to the Schauinslandbahn (running daily from 9am to 5pm). In total, it will take around 60 minutes to get from the center of Freiburg to the Schauinsland summit. 

Prices for the S-bahn + Bus (not including Schauinslandbahn lift ticket) can be found here. 

However, you can also reach the summit of Schauinsland without using the cable car (Schauinslandbahn). Coming up from the Dreisamtal, visitors should take SBG bus number 7215 Kirchzarten-Schauinsland-Todtnau: From Kirchzarten station it will take you 25 minutes to the stop “Schauinsland Halde”. From there it’s a 10-15 minute walk to the summit.

View the bus schedule here. 

Hike to the Top

Are you interested in taking in the sights and enjoying the journey just as much as the destination? We recommend doing what we do and hike to the summit of Schauinsland to begin your day of exploring. 

Starting from the Schauinslandbahn, there are several different hiking paths you can combine together. These can range from semi-technical hiking trails to mostly gravel roads. 

What to do on Schauinsland, Black Forest

One of the reasons why we enjoy visiting Schauinsland so much is that there is so much to do on or near the summit. Plus with great hiking, biking and cross-country skiing trails in the vicinity, you’re sure to find a great outdoor activity year-round. Check out our favorite things to do while visiting Schauinsland. 

Schauinslandturm

Cost: Free

Offering near unparalleled views of the Black Forest, Vosges Mountains, and Swiss Alps (in the right weather conditions), you can climb to the top of the Schauinslandturn (Schauinsland Tower) for a 360 view of the terrain. You can’t miss the striking triangular platform supported by three Douglas firs, cut from the surrounding Schwarzwald. 

The tower is located along a short hike from the Bergstation parking lot. 

Mining Museum

As we state above, since 1997, the old ore mine has been reconstructed into a museum which is open to the public. Here you will see a wide range of medieval tunnels and shafts from when the mine was operating.

This museum is open from May 1st until the beginning of November. A visit to the mining museum is only possible with a guided tour. Go here to find which scheduled tour would work for you.

Cost:

Breakfast at Die Bergstation (Arrive by cable car)

Check our YouTube video at the top of this page to follow along on our hike from Freiburg to the Schauinsland Bergstation for breakfast!

We aren’t exaggerating when we say that the brunch/breakfast the Die Berstation is one of the best we have ever had. From locally sourced Black Forest Ham, to Eggs, Bacon, Sausage, pancakes, fruit and an assortment of breads and cheeses, it is an indulgence that is worth the trip. Oh, and did we mention that coffee (including specialty coffees), juice and tea is included? Perfect!

Visitors are sure to be delighted by the beautiful setting, both inside in their cosy restaurant or outside on the panoramic terrasse. 

Breakfast at the Bergstation is offered from 9:30am to 11:30am, daily. 

Kombiticket can be found here. Please note that when purchasing the Kombiticket online, you will receive the ticket via post in 3-4 working days. Alternatively, you can also purchase the ticket directly from the Schauinslandbahn ticket office on-site. 

A prior reservation at the Bergstation restaurant is strongly recommended; particularly on weekends. You can book your reservation by calling the restaurant directly, at +49 07602 771 or booking online at this link. 

Cost for Breakfast & a Trip on the Schauinslandbahn:

Breakfast not really your thing? 

In addition to breakfast, there are also combination tickets available for coffee and cake as well as cheese fondue in the wintertime! More information on that here. 

Hiking

Unsurprisingly, hundreds of thousands of visitors flock to the area around Schauinsland for its hiking trails in the Black Forest. In the immediate area of Schauinsland, there are numerous hiking trails for both beginners and experienced trekkers alike. 

For an overview of some of the best hikes around Freiburg and Schauinsland, you can check out this link here. 

Mountain Biking 

For those who crave a bit more adrenaline, Schauinsland also is within the reach of world-class mountain biking trails. The local trails are largely maintained and advocated for by the Mountainbike Freiburg eV. On their website you can find an overview of the trails surrounding Freiburg, and the current status. 

Cross Country Skiing

Schauinsland is not only to be enjoyed during the summer months. In fact, the mountain is a great destination for those looking for winter weather sports. One of the more exciting events is cross-country skiing. 

If you’re looking for individual or group lessons, or perhaps just to rent gear, you should check out the offerings by Schneesportschule Schauinsland. 

Winter Hiking

Enjoy the 300km of hiking trails through the area by yourself or on a guided tour. Make sure to  bring your own winter gear and snow shoes.

Sledding

Calling the young in age and the young at heart! 

In the wintertime, Schauinsland has a dedicated sledding hill with a lift. The lift is open to the public on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 11am to 4pm. Also daily during the holidays. 

In addition, sleds are available for rent. For more information we suggest you check out the link here.

Where to Stay Near Schauinsland

There are numerous places to stay in the vicinity of Schauinsland. Here is an overview of our recommended accommodations. 

For Hikers & Youth: Stollenbacher Hütte

Book Your Stay Here

How about staying in a traditional Black Forest Mountain Hut? 

Providing mountain views, Stollenbacher Hütte in Oberried provides warm accommodation, with a family style restaurant and ski-to-door access.Plus, a continental breakfast is available daily at the farm stay.

For those looking for affordable accommodation, Stollenbacher Hütte also offers 12 dormitory style beds for as low as 53 EUR per night (breakfast included)!

For an Up-Scale Romantic Getaway: Landgasthof zum Schützen

Book Your Stay Here

Located in the neighboring town of Oberried, Landgasthof zum Schützen offers a restaurant serving Baden cuisine, a beautiful garden and rooms with balcony views of the Black Forest. 

Other facilities offered at the property include luggage storage, ski storage and a children's playground. An array of activities can be enjoyed on site or in the surroundings, including skiing, golf and cycling. The property offers free parking.

For Families: Schwarzwaldgasthof Zum Goldenen Adler

Book Your Stay Here

Also located in the neighboring town of Oberried, this traditional 3-star hotel free Wi-Fi, Black Forest food, and easy access to hiking and bicycle routes.

Room rates include a big breakfast buffet, which is a welcome start to a day of adventuring on Schauinsland. However, what makes Schwarzwaldgasthof  particularly good for families with little ones is that they also provide a playground, a selection of toys, and children's meals.

Best Places to Eat Near Schauinsland

Last but not least - let’s talk food. There are a number of great restaurants around the famous Black Forest Mountain. However, these are the ones that we personally recommend. 

Interested in learning what kind of food is popular in the Black Forest? Check out 12 Best Black Forest Foods to Inspire Your German Adventure.

Die Bergstation - €€

While we have talked about Die Bergstation numerous times in this post, it is worth mentioning one more time. While many other mountain top restaurants can be a tourist trip, Die Bergstation is the exact opposite. 

Here you will find traditional Black Forest foods with locally sourced ingredients. Whether you stop for their famous breakfast, grab a slice of Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte or delight in the wintertime fondue, you’re sure to leave satisfied.

Holzschlägermatte -  €€

On our hike to the top of Schauinsland we stopped to mention that the Holzschlägermatte is one of our favorite restaurants, and we mean it. Located along the picturesque drive to the top of Schauinsland, this traditional Black Forest guest house serves up AMAZING flammkuchen. We highly recommend it. 

EssBar & Restaurant im Vitalhotel | Grüner Baum - €€ - €€€

Located a short drive to the neighboring town of Todtnau, the EssBar & Restaurant serves up elegant gastronomy in a beautiful atmosphere. While many other restaurants stick to hearty food, we recommend this restaurant for those looking for an elevated meal.