Why do I love it here?
First, the climate. In winter, we have snow. The summers are warm, but never hot. Often, we are above the cloud layer, so we have sunshine while in the plains - e.g. in Freiburg - it is overcast, foggy or even rainy. Every time of the year, the air is fresh. And there is the scent of forst in the air - of fir, of resin, in winter of burnt wood.
Second, nature. The High Black Forest still has a lot of forest, also meadows, but no fields (too cold for growing crops). There is water everywhere - springs, mountain creeks, natural ponds, beaver ponds, swamps, moors, lakes. Yesterday, on our Christmas hike, we saw two deer and a beaver pond with a fine dam and a big lodge. We also see roe deer, hare, fox, marten, stoat (beautiful in winter fur), red kite, eagle, slowworm and from time to time a beaver. There are wild berries in the forests (blueberry, raspberry, blackberry, strawberry) and mushrooms. The creeks and lakes are full of fish.
Third, scenery. We have mild mountains and beautiful valleys.
Fourth, outdoor activities: hiking, hiking and hiking. Mountain biking, canoeing, sailing, swimming and other water-related activities. And skiing, downhill and cross-country. And snowshoe hiking.
Fifth, culture. We have picturesque villages with typical wooden farmhouses. We have small chapels in the forests. We have several fine monasteries. Clock museums (clockmaking was a big deal in the Black Forest). We have prehistoric sites. We have the largest Roman baths north of the Alps.
Sixth, food. There is Black Forest Ham, Black Forest Cake, trout, venison, fruit schnapps, Baden wine, one of the best German beers, brewed right in the Black Forest (Rothaus). And 400 metres from our home, we have a restaurant with two Michelin stars.
Would I live here permanently?
No, I am missing the urban vibe. So, we take the best of both worlds.
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