Hot days, cool swims – water walks in the Swabian Forest

Mysterious gorges, rustic forests, and water… lots of water. There are few regions in Baden-Württemberg that offer such an abundance of waterfalls, gurgling streams, deep gorges, and wonderful bathing lakes as the Swabian-Franconian Forest Nature Park. Even on the hottest summer days, this is the ideal venue for a hiking adventure.

Hiking and water are a wonderful combination during summer. In this Collection, we take you to five swim spots around Welzheim, Murrhardt, and Kaisersbach. You can reach the loops by car or public transport. There's something for almost every type of hiker: sporty Tours of around 14 kilometres (8 mi) long and two shorter family routes that are also enjoyable with a stroller. Some sections on the more difficult routes require sure-footedness and sturdy shoes, especially after rain.

Wander through wild forests along the premium ‘Feenspuren’ (Fairy Trails) hiking trails . Two of them, the ‘Waldklingen’ (Forest Gorges) and ‘Drei Schluchten’ (Three Gorges) feature in this Collection. Stand in awe at waterfalls and gorges and watch dragonflies dart along the water. A new world unfolds around every corner.

Leave behind everyday life as you cool off in the Ebnisee or the Aichstruter Stausee on one of the two hiking and swimming Tours. Explore the peaceful landscapes of the Hägeles and Brunnenklinge. The region has a fascinating past so you can take an imaginary journey back to the Roman Empire and then take a swim.

I recommend taking your time at the water spots to shower under a waterfall, dive into a cool lake, or simply enjoy the calming effect of the streams. Even though most Tours have places to stop for refreshments, there's nothing quite like having a lazy picnic next to water.