Discover the Northern Black Forest in autumn: Holiday with a cozy wellness break in Bad Wildbad

Autumn Holiday in the Northern Black Forest

Autumn is the ideal season for hikes, excursions, cozy moments and of course lots of wellness. We can confirm this first hand, because we have been living in the charming spa and wellness town of Bad Wildbad since 2020. Since we moved here, autumn has been one of our favorite seasons. When the leaves turn colorful and colorful mushrooms shoot out of the ground, we are drawn out into nature. Surrounded by the dense green of the northern Black Forest Bad Wildbad offers a wonderful break in the midst of a picturesque landscape.

Here, the wonderfully spicy, fresh scent of the Black Forest is combined with clear mountain air, which invites you to take a deep breath and relax during a stay in the unique thermal baths. We are thrilled to be able to present our new home to you here in the magazine. Spoiler alert: There is a lot to discover in Bad Wildbad!

Holiday in Bad Wildbad – On the trail of springs, healing & music

Previously known as “Kur”, the themes of wellness, health and relaxation already have a long tradition in Bad Wildbad. Bad Wildbad, formerly Wildbad, is one of the former royal Württemberg state spas and looks back on an exciting history as a health resort. As early as the Middle Ages, people discovered the healing powers of the thermal springs, which gave the place its name. The first prominent bather in Wildbad was Count Eberhard II (known as “the Greiner”), who bathed in the springs as early as 1367.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, Bad Wildbad experienced its first heyday as a spa and health resort, when more and more visitors learned to appreciate the relaxing effects of the hot springs. These bubble at a depth of 70 to 600 meters and have temperatures between 35 and 41° C. But it was not until the 19th century that Bad Wildbad became internationally known as a popular spa and health resort for kings, counts and dukes. Bad Wildbad's prized healing water attracted many famous spa guests, poets and musicians, including Ludwig Uhland, Ludwig Seeger, Justinus Kerner and the composer Gioachino Rossini. Today, Rossini's musical legacy is celebrated with the annual Rossini Festival in July, which attracts music lovers and artists from all over the world and shows that Bad Wildbad still has a lot to offer culturally.

Our Life in Bad Wildbad – A Sea of ​​Green

About four years ago I received a so-called Human Design reading. Maria, who did the reading, told me at the time that I felt most comfortable near water and that my place of residence should therefore definitely be near water. A few months later I was standing on our terrace and was able to listen to the rushing sounds of the Enz. After just one year in Bad Wildbad my asthma had completely disappeared. While I could hardly even think about jogging before, I now regularly run my laps in the spa park - and enjoy finally being able to breathe freely. In general, I have been able to experience a lot of healing and slowing down in this Black Forest town.

When we feel like we're going crazy, we can go outside and we're in the forest in just a few minutes' walk. We discovered a new hobby here: collecting mushrooms and herbs. We always wanted to live by the sea, but now the Northern Black Forest is our sea of ​​green. When we dive deep into the forest, we find coral-like mushrooms like the curly hen. We also have a lighthouse: the treetop path. In summer, an opera is even performed here as part of the Rossini Festival. We visit one of the two thermal baths at least every two weeks. For us personally, we have found a little piece of paradise in Bad Wildbad and have finally lost our hearts to the extraordinary Northern Black Forest.

Holiday in Bad Wildbad: Sights & Highlights

Before we moved here, we had no idea how many sights and highlights Bad Wildbad has to offer. Here are some of the best attractions you shouldn't miss when visiting!

Wellness & Spa in the Palais Thermal: The feel-good thermal spa in the Northern Black Forest

Let us begin our journey in the unique Palais Thermal, the heart of Bad Wildbad's spa town culture. This thermal bath with a total of 12 thermal pools is not just any wellness address in Germany - it is an architectural highlight and a unique historical place where the bathing culture of bygone times meets modern wellness in an exciting and extraordinary way. The historic bathing area, which opened in 1847 and harmoniously combines Moorish and Art Nouveau elements, is rightly one of the most beautiful thermal baths in Germany.

The historic bathing area – bathe and be pampered like the princes and dukes of Württemberg once did

Every time we walk through the doors of the Moorish Hall, it feels like we are entering a palace from 1001 Nights. We have visited many thermal baths, but none has ever impressed us as much as the historic area of ​​the Palais Thermal. It is this touch of the magnificent Orient in the heart of the Northern Black Forest that enchants us again and again. The artistic Art Nouveau elements, magnificent glazing and the multi-colored wall and floor tiles invite us on a very special journey through time. Here, visitors can experience first-hand how the Württemberg nobility once bathed and relaxed. The Palais Thermal is always an aesthetic delight for the senses. If you are a little or very hungry, there is a cafeteria in the Moorish Hall with delicious snacks, coffee & cake, salads and warm dishes such as tarte flambée and baked potatoes.

Palais Thermal – The modern area

The large and spacious sauna world in the modern bathing area of ​​the Palais Thermal offers a variety of different saunas that have something for every taste. tepidarium (bio sauna), with a gentle 50°C and 50% humidity, provides a comfortable warmth, while the pine sauna at 80°C with a delicate pine scent. For lovers of the classic sauna experience, the Finnish dry sauna with hot 95°C. If you are looking for a particularly relaxing break, you will find meditation sauna (75°C) Rest and relaxation. It is particularly hot in the Finnish infusion sauna (90°C). Our favorite is the 80°C panoramic sauna on the outside deck with a wonderful view.

A symbiosis of fire & ice: wellness for the senses

The Roman steam bath with 45°C. In addition, visitors can expect a first-class Spa area, where relaxing massages, cosmetic and wellness treatments are offered. The relaxation rooms, the marble plunge pool and the Ice fountain allow you to fully enjoy your well-deserved relaxation after a sauna session. The Kneipp foot basins and the solarium complete the offer. A special highlight is the Ice Lounge, which provides a small Antarctic feeling, as well as the Skydeck with a small panoramic pool and an summer bar, where you can enjoy cocktails and soft drinks while enjoying a fantastic view of the Black Forest landscape.

Events at the Palais Thermal

There are regularly (un)exciting Events and events in the Palais Thermal such as the Late Night Sauna, Palais on Lights or the Fire & Ice Event on December 13th with barbecue, fire elements and hot mulled wine.

Mokni's Palais Hotel & SPA – Exceptional wellness hotel in the Black Forest

An excellent address for a relaxing break in Bad Wildbad is undoubtedly the Mokni's Palais Hotel & SPALocated in the heart of the city, it is directly connected to the famous Palais Thermal. A practical bathrobe corridor takes guests from the hotel to the Palais Thermal wellness oasis without having to leave the building. The hotel itself consists of two buildings opposite each other, the "Badhotel" and the "Rossini", both of which exude a classic atmosphere combined with a romantic ambience and a touch of oriental elegance. A spacious, bright fitness area for hotel guests, equipped with the latest equipment, has recently opened. Right next door is a beautiful yoga room with high, bright windows.

Rooms & Suites at Mokni's Palais Hotel & SPA

The spacious, bright rooms and suites create the perfect retreat with a harmonious blend of comfort and style. High-quality fabrics and the fine furnishings create an elegant atmosphere, while the comfortable beds ensure a restful night's sleep. A special highlight is the genuine Bad Wildbad thermal water, which is available in the bathrooms of the rooms. The Badhotel's rooms offer a fantastic panoramic view of the city center and the Sommerberg. As an "adults only" hotel, Mokni's offers a quiet setting for all guests aged 16 and over. In 2024, the hotel was awarded the HolidayCheck Special Award as one of the best wellness hotels in the region.

Enjoy a royal breakfast with a view of the rushing Enz

A morning at Mokni's Palais Hotel & SPA begins with a delicious breakfast that leaves nothing to be desired. In the elegant atmosphere of the breakfast area, which looks like a castle, guests can expect a diverse selection of delicious treats. Freshly baked rolls and croissants smell tempting, while a colorful selection of cold cuts, cheese, Mediterranean specialties and honey from the "Little Black Forest Beekeeping" invites you to try them. When the weather is nice, hotel guests can have breakfast outside on the elegant terrace with a view of the historic Palais Thermal building.

Gastronomy in Bad Wildbad – Our Recommendations

In Bad Wildbad you will find a diverse gastronomy scene that delights both locals and visitors. From inviting cafes to rustic inns to fine restaurants - there is something for every taste. The dishes on offer are often based on regional ingredients that are prepared with great attention to detail. Here is a selection of our personal favorites.

For delicious cakes

If you are looking for a tasty piece of cake, you are in the Café Jats just right. The selection is impressive and ranges from classic gateaux, delicious cake creations, handmade chocolates to seasonal specialties that delight not only the palate but also the eye. The cozy atmosphere invites you to linger, while the aroma of freshly brewed coffee tempts you to try another piece. Our current favorite is the pistachio cheesecake.

The Raisch bakery still sells baked goods of genuine bakery quality. Fresh bread, crispy rolls and fine snacks ensure that everyone will find what they are looking for here. The inviting atmosphere is ideal for a short stopover to get a little refreshment for the next trip into the area.

For a hearty breakfast in a cosy atmosphere

A small breakfast paradise is hidden in the middle of Bad Wildbad: the NEG BreakfastHere you will find everything that makes your breakfast heart beat faster. Whether it's rustic sandwiches with fresh ingredients, a classic breakfast on a tiered stand or light and fluffy American-style pancakes - the café also has a cozy atmosphere to start the day in a relaxed manner.

For holiday ambience & fine cuisine

The Café Melange is located in the beautiful spa house in Bad Wildbad and offers a wonderful view of the spa gardens. In the warm months, the colorful, decorative umbrellas on the terrace exude a pure holiday atmosphere. Whether for a convivial lunch with friends or a romantic dinner - the creative menu delights with all kinds of delicacies. With two beautiful halls and a romantic terrace with access to the spa gardens, the Café Melange is also a popular wedding location.

For beautiful views & Hanoi feeling in the Black Forest – Wildbader Hof & Vinami

Im Wildbader Hof Swabian cuisine is a top priority in an inviting atmosphere. The atmosphere is relaxed and the coziness invites you to linger. The restaurant offers a fine selection of classic German dishes, and those lucky enough to be here on a sunny day can feast on the garden terrace and enjoy the beautiful weather. Things get exciting when the train passes by - a sight reminiscent of the train at the market in Hanoi, only here in a charming Black Forest version.

The Asian restaurant offers delicious sushi and a beautiful view of the Enz VinamiWith a beautiful terrace directly on the Enz, it has ideally rounded off the culinary offer since the beginning of 2024.

For a small culinary journey in the middle of the Black Forest – Suni Cafe & Bistro

If you have always wanted to try Korean specialties, you can do so in Suni Cafe & Bistro in the middle of Bad Wildbad. The menu offers an exciting selection of dishes that are a real taste experience for both lovers of Asian cuisine and newcomers. The aromatic bibimbaps, colorful kimchi variations and hearty mandu are just some of the delicious highlights that come to the table here.

For delicious chocolates – Kaffee-Manufaktur Bad Wildbad

At the nuclear Kaffee-Manufaktur Bad Wildbad There is not only excellent coffee, but also handmade chocolates that melt in your mouth. The little chocolate works of art are lovingly prepared and offer a sweet temptation that is hard to resist. Perfect for an enjoyable stopover or as a sweet souvenir from the Black Forest.

More restaurants, bars & cafés

From the Italian restaurants Toscana Due and Portofino about the rustic and cozy Foxy Bräu in the spa park: This is just a small selection of the large range of restaurants in Bad Wildbad. You can find all other addresses here.

Wildly romantic and beautiful – the spa park in Bad Wildbad

Anyone who wants to experience perhaps the most beautiful spa park in Germany should definitely stop by here. And we're not just saying that because we live here. Fairytale-like walking paths lead between old trees, fragrant bushes and the rushing Enz. Sports enthusiasts will find ideal routes for Nordic walking, a cycle path and tennis courts, while children can play on the Räuberberg adventure playground and in the mud and barefoot park.

Majestic trees and their fascinating roots line the walking paths in a fairytale-like manner, which lead past places such as the Rose Garden, the Swan Lake and the Moorish Pavilion. For us, every walk feels like a little vacation. And in every season the park presents itself in a different guise, each more beautiful than the last. In the middle of the spa park is also the city's second thermal spa. With a comfortably warm, heated outdoor thermal water pool, you can relax in the Vital Therme Enjoy a wonderful swim amidst the unspoilt Black Forest panorama.

The Sommerberg in Bad Wildbad – a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers

The Sommerberg in Bad Wildbad is the tourist landmark of Bad Wildbad and offers a variety of activities in the middle of the Black Forest with its 235 km of hiking trails. There are a variety of routes for hiking, walking and cycling to choose from, inviting you to enjoy the surroundings to the fullest.

Highlights such as the treetop path, the adventure forest and the WILDLINE suspension bridge make the Sommerberg unique. The fairytale path “The Cold Heart”, a gravelled route of 3,2 kilometres, is barrier-free for strollers and wheelchairs. At various stations, visitors can listen to the interactive radio play “The Cold Heart”.

The ride on the Sommerbergbahn from the valley to the Sommerberg is a highlight in itself and offers a spectacular view of Bad Wildbad. For mountain bikers, the Adventure Bike Park awaits with exciting trails and challenges that provide an adrenaline rush.

Aichelberger Dream Tour – Exploring the enchantingly beautiful Northern Black Forest

Bad Wildbad includes the idyllic districts of Aichelberg, Hünerberg and Meistern, which are also called Bad Wildbad's mountain towns. If you have time and are a good walker, you should definitely hike the almost 19 km long Aichelberg dream tour. This enchanted circular hiking trail leads through the picturesque landscape of the surrounding mountain towns and delights with breathtaking views. The route through the enchanting Kälbertal to the Kälberquelle offers an authentic hiking experience in the peace and quiet of nature. The sweaty climb is rewarded with a spectacular view on the high plateau: the extensive Black Forest landscape spreads out majestically. In the middle of it all, the picturesque village of Aichelberg rests peacefully in the distance.

The descent into the Enz Valley to the Kleinenz spring is gentle and leads past dense blueberry bushes that could have come straight out of a fairy tale book. A welcome opportunity to take a short break is a detour to the Neubachstüble cultural monument from the rafting era. The way back to Aichelberg runs along inviting paths that lead through the tranquil mountain village. If you keep your ears open, you can listen to the twittering of birds or the rustling of deer. This hike is definitely a treat for all the senses and an active break from everyday life.

Holiday in Bad Wildbad – Feel the Autumn

For us, Bad Wildbad in autumn is not just a place, but a way of life. When the mist settles like a fine veil over the Black Forest in the early morning and the first rays of sun bathe the landscape in a shimmering play of light and shadow, we are enchanted every time. When the clouds hang like cotton candy in the treetops and the leaves crackle under every step, it seems as if the world has briefly stood still.

The warm thermal springs invite you to relax, while the numerous hiking trails offer the opportunity to experience the autumnal play of colors up close. It is this now rare combination of soothing wellness offers and the distinctive, natural atmosphere that makes Bad Wildbad an ideal destination for a break in autumn. Whether during a relaxing stay in the Palais Thermal or on a discovery tour on the numerous signposted hiking trails, every visit promises new experiences and unforgettable memories. In our small town in the northern Black Forest, every day has the potential to be special.

Have our tips helped you plan your trip or inspired you to travel to Bad Wildbad? Share the post with your friends, save it on Pinterest or tag @linazerrella in your Instagram story. On Instagram you can also find more content about our life in Bad Wildbad. You can find more exciting holiday destinations and wellness hotels here

This article is part of a collaboration with the Bad Wildbad Touristik developed. We would like to thank you very much for that!