A Unique Hike Through Germany's Black Forest Leads To The Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market

If you're someone who waits in anticipation all year for the holiday season, you've likely dreamed of attending Europe's incredible Christmas markets. Across the continent, small towns and big cities transform into enchanting winter wonderlands from late-November through early-January. Christmas markets are beloved among tourists and locals alike, and they're the perfect way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit. Many believe that Nuremberg has the best Christmas market full of festive charm, but in my opinion it's the Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market in Southwestern Germany. The small market is magical, intimate, and surrounded by stunning natural scenery. The best way to get there is on a torch-lit night hike through the Black Forest.

The Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market is nestled under a massive railroad viaduct and encircled by towering pine trees. Attending the magnificent market is unforgettable, but when you combine the experience with a guided hike through the woods, you'll truly feel like you've wandered into a Christmas storybook. 

Along the way you'll travel through a village filled with traditional homes, pass picturesque waterfalls, and hear tales about the history of the Black Forest while carrying a torch to light your way. At the end of the hike you'll be free to shop, drink, dine, and be merry for the rest of the evening at the beautiful market. 

Germany's Black Forest is the stuff of legends — literally. Some of the world's most well-known fairytales like Hansel and Gretel, Sleeping Beauty, and Snow White were created by the Brothers Grimm, and the Black Forest was their constant muse. The beautiful region was given its spooky name by Ancient Romans, who felt that the woods were impassible and intimidating, but today it's a popular hiking destination with extensive trails and picturesque villages full of old world charm. It's the perfect place for a Christmas market.

Since 2010 the Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market has been a favorite among locals, and now it attracts travelers from all over the world. The once underrated whimsical Christmas market is now wildly popular, and it books up fast. Other popular holiday markets remain open every day throughout the season, but the Ravenna Gorge Market closes during the week, so there are a limited number of spots available. When my mom and I began planning our trip to visit Europe's Christmas markets, we were devastated to realize that tickets had sold out in just a few days.

Luckily, tickets for the guided night hike through the Black Forest were still available, and included admission to the market. We immediately purchased two spots for a Friday night in mid-December. Although we were simply looking for a way to visit the market, the hike itself turned out to be one of the highlights of our European vacation.

The guided hike began in the little town of Hinterzarten. We were instructed to meet our group, which included about 30 other tourists, at the center of town just before dusk. Our guides introduced themselves, offered quick safety instructions in English and German, and then we began hiking through a beautiful neighborhood full of traditional German cottages. With lights twinkling in the windows and evergreens hung around the thresholds, they resembled full-size gingerbread houses. A father and his toddler wearing matching pajamas waved at us from a little balcony as we wandered by, and I felt as though I was living in a Christmas movie. 

As we left the town behind and entered the woods, I quickly came to understand how the Black Forest got its name. It was much darker among the towering trees, and an eerie mist was rising from the rolling hills. I was reminded that this is where the stories of Krampus — the German antithesis to Santa Claus who punishes naughty children around Christmastime — originated. As night fell, our group paused near an old mill and the guides passed out torches. By the time each were lit, our little group was bathed in a warm glow. After a few moments of snapping selfies, we were taught to sing a traditional German Christmas carol.

The rest of the hike twisted and turned through the forest, following a small stream. We passed several waterfalls, and eventually emerged from the forest near a road where we could glimpse the iconic viaduct in the distance. Before our guides set us loose at the market, we ceremoniously placed our torches into a fire pit, enjoying a few moments of warmth around the bonfire before going our separate ways.

The guided hike is operated by an outdoor tour company called Schneeschuh Akademie Hinterzarten, and costs about $47 per person. The walk is appropriate for most hikers, but it's not ADA accessible. The mile-long hike takes just under an hour, and is mostly downhill. Make sure to check the forecast and dress appropriately, because the hike will depart even if it's raining or snowing.

The town of Hinterzarten where the hike begins is an ideal place to stay. Titisee is another good option nearby. Both towns have train stations, so you can easily get there from larger cities in Germany, France, and Switzerland. Accommodation options are plentiful, but be sure to book in advance since the market is so popular. Rooms start around $150 per night. For a charming stay, opt for a small traditional hotel. Most of them offer a complimentary breakfast that includes assorted breads, fruits, cheeses, and meats. Some of the hotels have onsite spas where you can relax in a sauna after the hike.

The Ravenna Gorge Christmas market is open from 3PM until 9PM on Fridays, 2PM until 9PM on Saturdays, and from 2PM until 8PM on Sundays. It opens for the season in late-November and continues through late-December. Make sure to bring plenty of cash, because unfortunately none of the vendors accept credit cards. When we visited, there was an ATM onsite, but it was out of service. Spend your time shopping for unique artisan treasures like wool gloves, holiday decor, and hand carved hair-brushes or simply relax around the bonfires with a soft-pretzel and a glass of wine as you wait for a train to pass over the massive bridge above. Either way, you're in for an unforgettable holiday experience.