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City in Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Photo: Martin Dürrschnabel, CC BY-SA 2.5 via Wikimedia Commons
Offenburg is a city in the Black Forest in the German state of Baden-Württemberg. It serves as a historic crossroads where the Rhine Valley meets the Kinzig Valley, earning it the nickname "Gate to the Black Forest." The town is characterized by its Baroque architecture, a lively market culture, and its deep connection to the 1848 German Revolution, which started in the local Salmen inn. Today, it is a vibrant regional center known for its high quality of life, sun-drenched vineyards, and as a strategic hub for travelers heading toward Strasbourg or deeper into the mountains.
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Winery
This castle towers over Ortenberg from atop a hill. Ortenberg is a community of 3000 people about 5 km away from Offenburg. The original castle from the 12th century was totally destroyed in the course of the Franco-Dutch war in the late 17th century. Reconstruction began in 1838 and was completed in 1843. It has been a youth hostel since 1950. Visitors are allowed from April to October between 09:00 and 19:00.
The Schauenburg is located above Oberkirch a bit north-east of Offenburg. It provides a restaurant and an event location with great views.
Displays culture, history, art and nature.
Museum für ehemals Großherzoglich Badische Schulen
Offenburg Vineyard Trail (Offenburger Weinwanderweg) – This 8-km loop trail runs through the vineyard districts of Rammersweier, Zell-Weierbach, and Fessenbach. The route provides views across the Rhine Valley toward the Vosges Mountains in France and features educational panels on local viticulture. Several local wineries, including Schloss Ortenberg and Renner, are located along the path and offer wine tastings or seasonal events.
Offenburg is the gateway to one of the Black Forest's most popular cycle routes. The path follows the Kinzig river and is mostly flat or downhill if you start in Freudenstadt and ride towards Offenburg. It's perfect for a relaxed day trip through traditional villages and lush landscapes.
A popular local recreation area featuring a swimming lake with a beach (Strandbad), a large park, and a small animal enclosure (Tiergehege) that is free to enter. It’s a great spot for families to see goats, ponies, and even alpacas in a natural setting.
Hike up to this observation tower located on the Brandeck mountain. From the top, you are rewarded with a 360-degree panorama of the Black Forest, the Ortenau vineyards, and the Alsace region across the border.
Experience the local lifestyle by visiting one of the biggest farmers' markets in the region. It’s the perfect place to buy regional specialties like "Schwarzwälder Schinken" (Black Forest ham), local honey, and fresh fruits from the Rhine valley.
One of Germany's most renowned traditional coffee houses. Famous for its handmade pralines, exquisite chocolate cakes, and classic Viennese-style atmosphere in the heart of the pedestrian zone.
A French-style brasserie located in a historic building in the heart of the pedestrian zone. It offers a sophisticated mix of Alsatian classics like Flammkuchen, modern European dishes, and a selection of regional wines. The outdoor seating is perfect for people-watching on the main street.
A "Texas Village" theme restaurant. During the day, it is a paradise for families, featuring a playground, a "Candybar" sweet house, and popular pony rides on Sunday afternoons. In the evenings, it transforms into a rustic haven for bikers and Western fans, who gather at the open fire pits or the specialized Whiskey & More bar for BBQ, steaks, and a distinctive US-country atmosphere.
Located on the top floor with a rooftop terrace overlooking the city and the Black Forest foothills. It’s the place to go for high-quality cocktails, regional wines, and a stylish atmosphere.
The fairytale castle is also the Ortenaus landmark.
Located south of the city center near the fairgrounds (Messe). The hotel features a rooftop terrace with views of the Black Forest, an on-site restaurant (Schenke), and a sauna area. Convenient access to the Kinzig cycle path.
A traditional family-run hotel located in the vineyard district of Zell-Weierbach. It serves as an ideal base for the Offenburg Vineyard Trail. The on-site restaurant is well-known for its regional Baden cuisine and seasonal specialties.
By train
By car
Offenburg is connected to the German highway system via the A5, running along the Valley of the Upper Rhine from south to north, starting at the Swiss border.
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Strasbourg · International · SXB
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