Calw Travel Guide (Black Forest/Baden-Württemberg/Germany/Central Europe/Europe)

Calw is a charming town located in the Black Forest region of Baden-Württemberg, Germany. Surrounded by lush greenery, Calw is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, while also boasting a rich cultural and historical heritage. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the must-visit places, top hiking and biking routes, local cuisine, accommodations, and much more that make Calw a top travel destination in Germany.

Introduction to Calw

Calw is a picturesque town situated on the banks of Nagold River in the Black Forest region of Germany. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, historical architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Founded in the 11th century, Calw has a rich history and has been home to many notable figures, including the famous German poet, Hermann Hesse.

List of Places to Visit in Calw

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Hermann Hesse Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and works of the renowned German poet, writer, and painter, Hermann Hesse. The museum features a collection of manuscripts, letters, photographs, paintings, and other memorabilia related to Hesse’s life.
House of Hermann Hesse: This is the place where Hermann Hesse was born and spend his early years. The house has been turned into a museum that showcases the life and times of the famous writer.
St. Peter and Paul Church: This beautiful 15th-century church is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and boasts stunning frescoes and beautiful stained glass windows.

Natural Attractions of Calw: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Hirsau Abbey: This beautiful abbey is located just outside of Calw and is surrounded by lush green forests. The abbey dates back to the 11th century and is one of the most picturesque sights in Calw.
Althengstett Bachtal Nature Reserve: This nature reserve is a haven for hikers and nature lovers. It boasts beautiful forests, streams, and waterfalls, and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Teinachtal Valley: This stunning valley is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It boasts beautiful forests, meadows, and mountains, and offers a variety of hiking and biking routes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Calw

Calw is a paradise for hikers and bikers with a vast network of trails that cater to all levels of difficulty. Some of the popular routes include:

Nagold Valley Trail: This trail follows the Nagold River and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Black Forest Trail: This trail takes you through some of the most beautiful forests and mountains in the Black Forest region.
Panoramaweg Trail: This trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and takes you through some of the most scenic spots in Calw.

Best Things to Do in Calw: Activities and Tours

Wine Tasting: Calw is known for its excellent local wines, and there are several vineyards in and around the town where you can sample some of the best wines in the region.
Guided Tours: There are several guided tours available in Calw that take you through the town’s historic center and give you an insight into the local life and culture.
Shopping: Calw boasts several local shops and markets where you can buy souvenirs, local products, and handmade crafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Calw

Day 1: Explore the historic center of Calw and visit Hermann Hesse Museum and House.

Day 2: Hike the Nagold Valley Trail and admire the scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 3: Visit the beautiful Hirsau Abbey and learn about its history and significance.

Day 4: Go on a wine tasting tour and sample some of the best wines in the region.

Day 5: Biking tour along the Panoramaweg Trail and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Day 6: Visit the Althengstett Bachtal Nature Reserve and go for a hike to admire the beautiful forests, streams, and waterfalls.

Day 7: Explore the Teinachtal Valley by going for a scenic drive and enjoy the picturesque views of the forests and mountains.

Food and Drink Scene of Calw

Calw is known for its delicious local cuisine that makes use of fresh and seasonal ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

Maultaschen: This is a traditional German dish that consists of dumplings filled with meat, spinach, and onions.
Spätzle: This is a popular German pasta that is made from flour, eggs, and salt. It is usually served with meat or vegetables.
Black Forest Cake: This is a mouth-watering dessert that is made with layers of chocolate cake, whipped cream, and cherries.

Local Beverages

Local Wines: Calw is a renowned wine region, and there are several vineyards in and around the town where you can sample some of the best local wines.
Beer: German beer is world-famous, and there are several local breweries in Calw that produce high-quality beer.

Where to Stay in Calw: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Calw offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some of the popular choices include:

Hotel Kloster Hirsau: This hotel is located in the beautiful Hirsau Abbey and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
Pension Fidelis: This guesthouse is located in the historic center of Calw and offers cozy rooms and a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Jugendherberge Calw: This hostel is located just outside of Calw and offers affordable accommodation for backpackers and budget travelers.

What to Buy in Calw: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Calw offers a variety of local products and souvenirs that make for great gifts and keepsakes. Some of the popular choices include:

Local Wines: Calw is renowned for its excellent wines, and there are several local vineyards where you can buy bottles to take home.
Handmade Crafts: Calw boasts several local shops and markets where you can buy handmade crafts, including jewelry, ceramics, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Calw

Calw has a rich cultural and historical heritage, and the locals take great pride in their traditions and customs. Some of the local customs and traditions include:

Carnival: Calw celebrates the annual carnival, which takes place in February or March and is a time of much joy and celebration.
Christmas Markets: The town hosts several Christmas markets during the holiday season, where you can buy local gifts, snacks, and drinks.

Best Time to Visit Calw

Calw is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months when the weather is mild, and the landscape is in full bloom. The holiday season is also a great time to visit when the town is adorned with festive decorations and lights.

Do’s and Don’ts of Calw

Do:

Respect the local customs and traditions.
Try the local cuisine and beverages.
Explore the countryside by hiking, biking, or driving.

Don’t:

Litter or damage the natural environment.
Be loud and disrespectful to the locals.
Dress inappropriately at religious sites and cultural events.

Safety and Health

Safety in Calw

Calw is a safe town, but it is always advisable to take the usual safety precautions, such as keeping your valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Calw

Calw has excellent medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics. It is always advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to Calw: Transportation Options and Logistics

Calw is well-connected to the rest of Germany by several transportation options, including:

Airports Near Calw

Stuttgart Airport: This is the closest airport to Calw, which is about 45 km away.

Bus Stations Near Calw

Calw Bus Station: This is the main bus station in Calw, with regular bus services to other parts of Germany.

Other Options

Train: Calw is connected to the German rail network, with regular trains to Stuttgart and other nearby towns.

How to Get Around in Calw

Calw is a small town, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. The town also has an excellent public transportation network, including buses and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Calw: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Calw is surrounded by several other picturesque towns and cities that make for great excursions, including:

Stuttgart: This vibrant city is located just 40 km away from Calw and is known for its museums, galleries, and beautiful parks.
Baden-Baden: This spa town is located about 70 km away from Calw and is renowned for its natural hot springs and wellness spas.

Conclusion

Calw is a charming town located in the heart of the Black Forest that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, there is something for everyone in Calw. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip to Calw and explore all that this beautiful town has to offer!