Five Things to See and Do in Triberg im Schwarzwald

Directly located on the Black Forest railway line in Germany, Triberg im Schwarzwald is a town situated in the Schwarzwald-Baar district in the Black Forest. The town is one of the most popular destinations in the Black Forest region and while it is often considered rather crowded and touristy, it is a great gateway in case you are visiting this part of the world for the first time. Also known as the home of the quintessential cuckoo clocks, Triberg does offer a host of interesting sights. Together with its idyllic districts of Nussbach and Gremmelsbach, Triberg boasts a charming topography due to its altitude of 500 to 1024 m above sea level. It is located about 130 km from Zurich and hence forms for a perfect day trip from Zurich. Here are a few things you can see and do in Triberg.

Visit Germany’s highest waterfalls

Triberg is home to the country’s highest waterfalls which is a truly attractive spectacle. It is formed by the frothy waters of the river Gutach that tumble down 163 meters in seven steps. Accessible by a small climb, the waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery which support a wide variety of animal and bird life. There are a plethora of hiking trails in the area of the waterfalls as well.

Explore Schwarzwaldmuseum

If history and cuckoo clocks fascinate you, the Schwarzwaldmuseum in Triberg must be on your list. This insightful museum holds a treasure trove of information related to cuckoo clocks, their history, how they were made by the forest workers and even throws light on cuckoo clock trade. Other engaging aspects like mining in the forests, daily life in the region, native culture and festivals observed are also covered in the museum.

View the World’s Largest and Smallest Cuckoo Clock

The town has the distinction of having both the world’s largest and smallest cucukoo clock. The former was specially built for the purpose and took a whopping 5 years in construction. With a wheel diameter of 2.6 meters and the 8 m pendulum weighing over 100 kgs, the construction cost of this clock was over a million euros. The giant cuckoo that chimes every hour weighs about 150 kg!

The smallest mechanical cuckoo clock that is about 13.5 cm is housed in Schwarzwaldmuseum.

Visit Triberg Land

If you are fan of miniatures, then Triberg Land is the place for you. It hosts several interactive Black Forest model railways from the Gütenbach company Faller. The models also display seasons and can be operated by the visitors through the touch of a button which makes it a favourite with adults and children alike.

Triberg Fantasy and Home of 1000 Cuckoo clocks

Triberg Fantasy is a great idea if you love doing something touristy and fun. This place has some quirky backdrops, motifs and upbeat designs crafted in vibrant colours that provide the ideal photo opportunities for all you Instagram fans. Further, Triberg lives upto its moniker of being the cuckoo clock capital of the world in that there are numerous outlets where you can shop for cuckoo clocks. From large mechanical clocks to mini battery operated clocks, you are sure spoilt for choice. One of the most popular shops to visit is the Home of 1000 cuckoo clocks which has clocks suited for everyone’s taste. And before you leave Triberg, do sample the famous black forest pastry named after the region!

Click here and here to read about more day trips from Zurich.