Badenweiler Germany -An Astounding Place to Visit

In 1998, I had the opportunity to visit Germany. While there, one of the wonderful places I called home was Badenweiler, a small, elegant town nestled in the Black Forest. If you ever visit Badenweiler, you should plan to take many photographs as the area is incredibly picturesque. I recommend going in late spring, when everything has had time to green up and the flowers are in bloom. If you visit at other times, however, you are still in for a treat.

Badenweiler is a town with many faces and has its own personality distinct from other German towns. It has a rich history as a health resort and is known for a mineral spring resort, Cassiopeia Therme. Cassiopeia Therme boasts a variety of pools, saunas, and services such as massage.

In the days when tuberculosis was exceptionally prolific, the rich and famous traveled to Badenweiler for the fresh air and health facilities. Although many did recuperate from the illness, others were not so lucky. Stephen Crane, for instance, the author of The Red Badge of Courage, died of tuberculosis in Badenweiler when he was only 28. He was near death when he arrived and lasted only briefly.

The area draws visitors for good reason; the climate is healthful to the mind as well as body. Badenweiler and the surrounding land has a fairy-tale atmosphere that is completely enchanting and slightly surreal. Within the town's limits, small palm trees flourish in large pots against a rising backdrop of rolling hills, vineyards, and native forest. These tropical trees add an interesting, if out of place, touch. You won't see these if you go in the winter, though; the palm trees are brought inside in the winter to protect them from Germany's cold and snowy winters.

Badenweiler is a perfect spot to call home during any stay in Southern Germany. It is only 17 miles from Basel Switzerland and only 7 miles from France; in fact, visitors can see French countryside from atop Badenweiler's 11th century Castle ruins. In addition, the historic city of Freiburg, Germany is only 19 miles away.

Lodging: Within the town and in neighboring areas there are many hotels suitable to a wide range of budgets. Prices range from around $50.00 to $150 per night in Badenweiler and neighboring towns. It is worth shopping around online for the best deal.

Sights you must see: While there, you will want to visit the ancient roman bath ruins. When I was there in 1998, they were still excavating the ruins. Now they have completed most of the excavation and have covered the area to protect it from weather.

You must see the Castle. The view from this 11^th century castle is breathtaking and no trip to Badenweiler would be complete without a visit to this beautiful piece of history.

Food: Be sure to try the Schwarzwaldkirschetort, the beer, and the regional wines. Regional wines are very inexpensive. There are several good restaurants and cafes in Badenweiler. If you get bored with German cuisine, you can always travel down the road a ways to France or Switzerland.

Nature:

The Black Forest beckons all to wander through the lush and winding paths. Many trails are well maintained and you do not have to walk far to find yourself in the middle of dense forest. There is little sound save for the rustling leaves, the chirping birds, and the tolling church bells in the distance.

There are a million stories hidden in the Black Forest. The trees are quiet watchers guarding the secrets of the forest and waiting for the right soul to come along, a soul willing to ask the right questions of the forest. Bring pen and notebook, for you are sure to be inspired.