Attractions and Places To See around Schutterwald - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Schutterwald, located on the western edge of the Black Forest in Germany's Ortenau district, offer a blend of cultural sites, natural attractions, and charming town features. The area features the Schutterwald Forest with an educational trail and a 150-year-old beech tree, as well as a 31-hectare quarry pond for recreation. The River Schutter flows through the town, complementing its idyllic town center with half-timbered houses.
Best attractions and places to see around Schutterwald
- The most popular attractions is Gengenbach marketplace, a settlement known for its historic buildings, half-timbered houses, and lively atmosphere. It features a charming old town with many street cafés and is surrounded by vineyards.
- Another must-see spot is Footbridge of the Two Banks, a bridge connecting Germany and France, designed for cyclists and pedestrians. It offers a platform in the middle of the Rhine for rest and views of the landscape.
- Visitors also love Ortenberg Castle, a well-maintained castle with a history dating back to the 11th or 12th century. Part of the castle is open to the public, providing views of the Kinzig valley, the Rhine plain, and Offenburg.
- Schutterwald is known for its cultural sites, natural areas, and historical landmarks. Visitors can explore local history museums, historic churches, and venues for cultural events, alongside forests and quarry ponds.
- The attractions around Schutterwald are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 2,800 upvotes and over 1,800 photos shared.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Gengenbach marketplace
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Footbridge of the Two Banks
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Ortenberg Castle
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Kinzigtor (Southern City Gate)
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View of Ortenberg Castle and the vineyards
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The Kinzigtor is probably the "main entrance" to the old town. The mightiest tower of the city fortifications also houses a museum that focuses on the city wall.
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The Kinzig Gate Tower is the largest and strongest of all towers and had the most important role in the city's defense. The battlements led to this tower from both sides. The city was guarded day and night from the watchman's apartment. The watchman's job was to impose a municipal toll on the approaching rafts on the Kinzig and on the traders arriving over the bridge.
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In the 11th/12th century, the Zähringers built a castle on this site to protect the Kinzig Valley. In the 15th century, the castle was expanded to include defense towers. At the end of the 17th century, the castle was destroyed twice. In the 18th century, the current castle was built in the English style on the ruins of the old castle. Today, there is a youth hostel and a wine-producing farm here.
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A court linden tree was a single, very old tree near the town. This was where the Thing, a council meeting, was held, where justice was also dispensed.
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The 24-meter-high Kinzig Gate was built in the 13th/14th century and has been rebuilt and renovated several times over the years. It is the city gate to the south.
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The Kinzigtorturm now houses the military history museum of the Gengenbach Citizens' Guard.
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The towers and gates invite you into the historic old town from afar and narrow alleys lead you into picturesque nooks and crannies. The "stone knight" on the market square fountain welcomes us upright. It testifies to the pride and self-confidence of the former Free Imperial City, as does the imposing 200-year-old town hall, which is transformed into the world's largest Advent calendar house in winter and, with its countless romantic half-timbered buildings, dominates the cityscape. 
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The Kinzig Gate Tower probably had the most important task in Gengenbach's history. In addition to defending the town, it served to secure the Kinzig Bridge and to protect trade sovereignty. When a raft that was subject to customs approached on the Kinzig, the tower guard blew his brass horn. It is no coincidence that the Kinzig Gate Tower is the largest and strongest of Gengenbach's three towers. It is around 40 m high up to the weather vane and 6.5 x 6.5 m square and is integrated into the town wall. Source: https://buergergarde-gengenbach.de/die-geschichte-des-kinzigorturm/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Schutterwald?
The area offers a rich history. You can visit the Ortenberg Castle, which dates back to the 11th or 12th century and provides stunning views. In Gengenbach, explore the historic Gengenbach marketplace with its half-timbered houses and the impressive Kinzigtor (Southern City Gate). Schutterwald itself has a Local History Museum and the 18th-century St. Michael's Church with its Baroque altar.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities near Schutterwald?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Gengenbach marketplace is lively and enjoyable for all ages. The Ortenberg Castle is also considered family-friendly. For outdoor fun, the Schutterwald Forest features a three-kilometer-long educational forest trail, and the Quarry Pond offers swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball, along with a circular trail.
Where can I enjoy nature and outdoor recreation in Schutterwald?
Schutterwald is surrounded by natural beauty. The Schutterwald Forest is perfect for recreation, featuring an educational trail and a 150-year-old beech tree. The 31-hectare Quarry Pond on the eastern outskirts is ideal for swimming, hiking its circular trail, or exploring an art and culture trail. You can also stroll along the River Schutter or visit the Landscape Protection Areas and the 'Unterwassermatten' Nature Reserve for more natural experiences.
What cycling opportunities are available around Schutterwald?
The region offers excellent cycling. A picturesque cycling path runs along the Canal du Rhône au Rhin, shaded by mighty oaks and plane trees. For more structured routes, you can find various Road Cycling Routes and MTB Trails around Schutterwald, catering to different difficulty levels.
Are there any unique viewpoints or scenic spots nearby?
Absolutely. Ortenberg Castle offers wonderful views of the Kinzig valley, the Rhine plain, and Offenburg. The Footbridge of the Two Banks, connecting Germany and France, features a 100-square-meter platform in the middle of the Rhine, providing a breathtaking view and an ideal spot for a rest.
What cultural events or venues are there in Schutterwald?
Schutterwald hosts cultural events at the 'Alte Kirche' Cultural Center, which stages concerts, theater performances, and exhibitions. Additionally, the historic town center with its half-timbered houses provides a charming backdrop for a leisurely walk.
Can I go for a run or hike near Schutterwald?
Yes, there are several options for running and hiking. The Schutterwald Forest has an educational trail, and a circular trail around the Quarry Pond is popular. You can also explore various Running Trails around Schutterwald, ranging from easy loops like the 'Schutterwaldsee loop' to more challenging routes.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Schutterwald?
Visitors frequently praise the charming atmosphere of the Gengenbach marketplace, especially its half-timbered houses and street cafés. The panoramic views from Ortenberg Castle are highly appreciated, as is the unique design and resting spot on the Footbridge of the Two Banks. The idyllic cycling path along the Canal du Rhône au Rhin is also a community favorite.
Are there any accessible attractions for wheelchair users?
The Footbridge of the Two Banks is designed to be wheelchair accessible, offering a unique cross-border experience with a resting platform in the middle of the Rhine.
What is the best time of year to visit Schutterwald for outdoor activities?
Spring is lovely for discovering blooming wood anemones and wild garlic in the Schutterwald Forest, while autumn brings vibrant red oak foliage. The Quarry Pond is popular for swimming in warmer months. Generally, spring through early autumn offers the most pleasant weather for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor pursuits.
Where can I find a barbecue area for a picnic?
There is a popular barbecue area directly on the Schutter river, which is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy outdoor meals.
What is the significance of the Kinzigtor in Gengenbach?
The Kinzigtor (Southern City Gate) in Gengenbach, built in the 13th/14th century, was crucial for the city's defense and served as the main entrance. Its tower now houses the military history museum of the Gengenbach Citizens' Guard, offering insights into its past role.
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