Located in the town of Oppenau and the Black Forest of Germany, All Saints' Abbey (Kloster Allerheiligen) is a Premonstratensian abbey that has an unusual structure with large brick walls standing just above the main façade. The building, which is constructed out of brown bricks, was established in the 11th century and was promoted to the ranks of an abbey in 1657. Destroyed by several fires, the building was demolished and its stones were used for reconstruction purposes in the nearby town. However, as tourism expanded, it was remade and rebuilt to its current form.
Pristine and picturesque, Mummelsee is a popular tourist attraction surrounded by towering pine trees in the famous Black Forest of Germany. Many local legends and myths are associated with the lake, including one which alludes to shapeshifting water spirits and the King of Mummelsee residing in its depths. Souvenir shops, restaurants, and the Berghotel Mummelsee are located on its banks and are worth checking out during a visit to the lake. The glistening waters, along with the panoramic views of the valley, make for a beautiful backdrop in a holiday picture.
A route between the towns of Hundseck and Untersmatt was constructed in 1930, which came to be known as Schwarzwaldhochstrasse. It was extended in 1952 to the cities of Baden-Baden in the north and Freudenstadt to the south to provide an easy access to hotels and scenic spots on the high altitude Black Forest mountains. The 60 kilometer (37 miles) stretch of the road provides a great opportunity for nature trails and winter sports at an altitude that ranges from 700 to 1100 meters (2296 to 3609 feet).
The 2.3 kilometer (1.42 miles) long Lichtentaler Allee along the river Oos was developed as an exceptional park in the middle of 19th Century. The park is also a well-groomed arboretum with oak trees that have existed for more than 300 years along with various other shrubs and trees. An ideal place for a stroll at any time of the day, the beauty of Gönneranlage (added in 1952), which comprises of a rose garden and fountain, is breathtaking. With a number of hotels and mansions along the avenue and an art museum inside the park, this place makes for a serene green spot in the town.
One of the top attractions of Baden-Baden is the Merkur Funicular Railway. Not only is it a great way to travel up the Merkur Mountain, the railway car also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding region and all the verdant scenery the town has to offer. For a nominal price, the Funicular offers a novel experience.
Located on Wildbader Straße, the Kloster Hirsau dates back to the 9th century and has a rich historical past as one of the most significant Benedictine abbeys in the country. It housed a chapel which was then rebuilt into a church with Roman architecture. The abbey sustained severe damages during the Nine Years' War, and its ruins today draw a multitude of visitors.
Its stunning green dome and Art Nouveau elements is a striking feature in city's landscape. St. Bernhard or Bernharduskirche is a Catholic church and was built in 1914. One has to climb many stairs to enter the church. Its entrance is bounded by two free-standing pillars with engraved images of Apostles Peter and Paul on either side. Its star shaped design creates an impressive facade while its Art Nouveau interiors will fascinate you.
The Alte Kirche Fautenbach is believed to date back to the 13th Century. The church structure had a major renovation in the 18th Century and the interiors were refurbished as well. The church is a prominent landmark and an important concert venue in the city. Because of the fantastic acoustics, many local musical concerts are held here throughout the year.
The former house of the monks of the Benedictine order, Münsterkirche Klosterreichenbach continues its service to the community to this day. The origins of this church can be traced back to 1085 CE when it was built to honor Saint Gregory the Great. Having withstood the test of time with minimal repairs and restoration, the stone structure still maintains its originality, with major portions of the original interiors remaining intact as well.
Find your inner peace at the idyllic Oberer Schwärzenbachhof, where you can relax, unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Encompassed by lush greenery, the farm offers a re-energizing break from the hum-drum of the city. While a plethora of farming chores keep the children busy, you can venture out into the woods for a challenging hike. Complete with modern conveniences such as restaurants and apartments, Oberer Schwärzenbachhof offers a fun-filled rural vacation perfect for the whole family.
When on the Hauptstraße, the striking architecture of the Mediathek library is bound to intrigue you and in turn beckon you to come in. Inside, the library is drenched in an angelic white color with an interior decor that draws inspiration from geometrical shapes and sizes. The hall is massive and it is stocked with a wide selection of books. In addition, Mediathek also has many personal computers along with colorful seating spaces that give this place an interesting look. The large windows are nothing less than a work of art, as they delight you with the picturesque views of the city's landscape. Winding stairs take you on the top floor, where conference rooms and other venues can be found.
Gengenbach Winzer lies at the entrance of a picturesque valley and has been a Gengenbach tradition for over five decades. However, the site of the liquor store has historically been a vineyard, with records showing that the early Benedictines had vine farms dating back to over a thousand years. Plentiful sunshine, shaded areas and a favorable climate create ideal conditions for some of the finest wines of the region. Some of its popular products include Riesling, Chardonnay and Regent, among others. The wine store also remains a thriving venue for live-in concerts and other events.