School Trips to the Black Forest for Cross-Curricular Studies

The university city of Freiburg is Germany’s southernmost city enjoying a warm and sunny climate. It’s a chance to experience typical German life with bustling market squares, traditional coffeehouses and busy networks of small canals. At its heart is the 500 year old Cathedral with the tower providing fantastic views across the city. Freiburg is also one of the world’s leading green eco cities.

The village of Schonach is in the heart of the Black Forest and well known for its beautiful hiking trails and winter sports. It’s also the home of the world’s largest cuckoo clock, weighing in at nearly six tonnes and over 4m in height. Your students will have the chance to explore inside the clock too and purchase a mini model to take home.

Among the highest waterfalls in Germany and certainly one of the most magical locations – the Gutach River plunges over seven major steps into a plunge pool 163m below. The pathways leading to the site are rich in flora and fauna typical to the region.

We think this is the best way to reach the summit of Schauinsland Mountain. It’s Germany’s longest two-way cable car system and the ride to the top of the 1284m high peak is always one of the highlights of our trips to Freiburg. The route gives panoramic views of the Black Forest, Rhine Valley and on a clear day, the Swiss Alps. Photo © Ipab.

We never miss a chance to visit the outdoor adventure pools in Schluchseewerk. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of tours and rehearsals. Students of all ages find fun on the water slides, sunbathing decks and playing beach games like volleyball and polo.

Enjoy some leisure time at this indoor oasis complete with palm trees and a tropical temperature. Located in Titisee-Neustadt, the Galaxy Schwarzwald water leisure complex has over 20 attractions including 18 high tech slides and a unique wave pool. © Schwarzkopf

Containing the region’s oldest dwelling, as well as plenty of examples of local arts and crafts, ensures that this open-air museum is the ideal location for students interested in the history and culture of the Black Forest. (Seasonal opening)

Europe’s second largest theme park is split into thirteen different ‘European countries’ with 100 rides and spectacular shows, complimenting scientific, historical and geographical exhibits. During the Advent period, Europapark is transformed into a sparkling wonderland with a Christmas Market, ice-rink, bobsleighs, the Magic Parade of Lights and many special winter attractions.

Europa Parks latest attraction is a new giant indoor water-world – Rulantica  – which is open daily until 10.00 pm. The nordic themed 32,600-square-metre indoor water park offers 25 exciting attractions, including 17 water slides, a huge wave pool and  a 250-meter lazy river. There is also a heated outdoor pool. With imaginative and atmospheric designs and  styling, Rulantica offers fun for everyone.

The city of Strasbourg has a wealth of festive traditions dating back to the Middle Ages. This is one of the oldest markets in France and regional specialities, crafts and gifts are available in abundance. Strasbourg is full of medieval charm with a magnificent cathedral, half-timbered houses and canals. The city is also the seat of the Council of Europe, the European Parliament and The Court of Human Rights.

The Black Forest Village offers students the opportunity to experience local arts and crafts. See a short demonstration of how local cuckoo clocks are made, while glassblowers will show off their technical skill in the old fashioned way. Enjoy a slice of the region’s famous Black Forest gateau and watch the baker demonstrate how the region’s most famous delicacy is made.