Trekking for adults: the famous schnaps route in the Bavarian Black Forest

Trekking for adults: the famous schnaps route in the Bavarian Black Forest

June 11, 2025

In the heart of the picturesque Black Forest, in the charming village of Sasbachwalden, hides an unusual attraction combining active recreation with a taste of local traditions. The Schnapsbrunenweg is a unique trekking route available in two variants - a shorter 7-kilometer route (Schnapsbrunnenweg 1) and a longer 12-kilometer route (Schnapsbrunnenweg 2). Both routes lead through some of the most picturesque corners of the region, offering not only breathtaking views, but also the opportunity to experience the local culture of distilling spirits. There are 10 specially prepared 'springs' (Schnapsbrunnen) along the route, where tourists can taste traditional German liquors and distillates. Each of these places has its own history and character, and the whole creates an unforgettable cultural experience. These historic schnapps fountains originally served as places of rest and refreshment for farmers and travelers. Today they are a unique tourist attraction, combining tradition with active recreation. The route has been carefully planned to combine the pleasure of hiking with the discovery of local distilling traditions that have been cultivated in the region for generations.

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Beginning of the trail and first tasting points

The trail begins in the center of Sasbachwalden, where the first point is located - Schnapsbrunnen am Haus Zink (rating 4.8/5.0). This place is famous for its traditional fruit liquors, especially local cherries and plums. The distinctive wooden building with a fountain is a perfect introduction to the atmosphere of the entire tour. It is worth noting that all points operate on a unique self-service system - each tourist can taste the liquor by dropping the appropriate amount (1-3 EUR) into a special moneybox. The next stop is Schnapsbrunnen bei der Fatima-Grotte (4.7/5.0), located in a picturesque setting of a small grotto. This place stands out not only for the quality of the drinks on offer, but also for its unique spiritual atmosphere. On this section of the trail, you can enjoy the rich flora and fauna of the Black Forest - from spring flowers to a variety of birds and larger animals such as roe deer and foxes. Hiking further, you reach Schnapsbrunnen vom Brenner Decker (4.7/5.0), where you can learn about the secrets of the distillation process and taste unique herbal tinctures. Particularly noteworthy is Schnapsbrunnen am Schlaffass (4.7/5.0), which combines a tasting function with the unique opportunity to stay overnight in wine barrels. This place offers not only a tasting, but also an unforgettable lodging experience overlooking the valley. At this stage of the route, it is worth noting the difference in difficulty between the two variants of the trail - Schnapsbrunnenweg 1 has an elevation gain of about 400 meters, while Schnapsbrunnenweg 2 features an elevation gain of up to 600 meters. Regardless of which option you choose, the trail is well-marked and well-maintained, making for an enjoyable and safe hike.

The middle section of the trail - the gems of the region

In the central part of the trail is a real gem - Rösch's Schnapsbrunnen im Klappladen (4.9/5.0), which boasts the highest rating among all points. This place is famous for its unique recipes handed down from generation to generation and its unique self-service system. This section of the trail offers the most spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and hills, especially halfway down Schnapsbrunnenweg 2. Nearby is Fischer's Schnapsbrunnen (4.9/5.0), where in addition to tasting, you can relax in a beautifully landscaped park overlooking the surrounding hills. It's the perfect place to take a break from hiking, especially since the entire tour takes about 3 hours and 41 minutes for the longer option. The next stop is Schnapsbrunnen am Spinnerhof (4.5/5.0), which, although it has a slightly lower rating, stands out for the wide range of local products available in the on-site store. This is an ideal place to buy souvenirs and local specialties. Schnapsbrunnen an der Straubenhöf-Mühle (4.7/5.0) impresses with its historic surroundings - the old water mill provides a picturesque backdrop for tastings. The richness of the local flora is particularly evident along this section of the route - in spring and summer the paths are surrounded by a carpet of forest flowers, and in autumn they delight in the colors of the falling leaves. Each of these points offers not only the opportunity to taste local beverages, but also education on the process of their creation and the history of the region. Be sure to bring enough water and snacks, as there are a limited number of refreshment points along the route.

Final stage of the route and practical information

The final section of the trail takes you through the most scenic parts of the route. Schnapsbrunnen am Hagenberg (4.6/5.0) offers not only tastings, but above all breathtaking views of the valley. It's the perfect place for a longer rest and contemplation of the landscape. The trail closes with the Schnapsbrunnen point in Baiersbronn (4.4/5.0), which, although it has the lowest rating, stands out for its unique atmosphere and is a great place to sum up the entire hike. Access to the trail is extremely easy - you can drive to Ortenaukreis or take the train connection to Offenburg and then the local bus. It's worth keeping a few practical considerations in mind when planning your hike. The route is accessible year-round, but the best time to traverse it is in late spring and early autumn, when the weather is favorable for hiking. The entire route can be covered in one day, but we recommend spreading it out over two days to fully enjoy each stop. Proper preparation is essential - comfortable trekking shoes with good traction are key, especially after rain, when paths can be slippery. Trekking poles can be helpful on steeper sections. Although the trail is well marked, it's a good idea to bring a map or use the HiiKER app for navigation. Each tasting point has its own opening hours, so it is advisable to check the current schedule on the official website of the Sasbachwalden region before setting out. Tasting prices are affordable - from €1 to €3 per sample (as of 2024), making it an attractive option for travelers on a tight budget. The self-service system operates on a trust basis, which adds a unique touch to the whole experience and demonstrates the importance of tradition and mutual trust in the region.

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