Even in Germany the snow isn't as reliable as it was. But in the Black Forest, where the mountains tower to up to 1,493 metres in height, there's certainly no shortage of the wintry white stuff. All in all, 70 mountains tower beyond 1,000 metres in height. With more than 170 ski-lifts, five biathlon stations, about 2,000 kilometres of designated cross-country ski runs, 250 kilometres of prepared ski slopes, thirteen ski-jumps and uncountable signed walking routes - the Black Forest is certainly a winter wonder world.

In December, Christmas lights are strung across the streets, colorful ornaments hung on Christmas trees sparkle in the winter sun, and the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts fills the air: The Christmas season is even cozier and more inviting in the villages and towns of the Black Forest than elsewhere. The square surrounding the Freiburg Münster, or cathedral, is reserved for the farmers' market all year round. Stands selling traditional Christmas delicacies, crafts, and mulled wine are spread throughout the streets of the old city from November 25 to December 23.

For scenic natural beauty, look no further: At the mouth of the Ravennaschlucht gorge, east of Freiburg, Christmas market stalls cluster beneath the stone railway viaduct at three weekends before Christmas Eve. On the grounds of the nearby historic manor house, now a hotel, visitors can find cuckoo clocks, decorative glass, and Christmas ornaments.

In Baden-Baden, the 19th-century Kurhaus spa resort complex and Kurpark, right in the heart of the city offer a striking setting for the town's traditional Christkindelsmarkt (Christmas market), held from November 25 to December 30.

Half-timbered houses, narrow, winding streets - and the biggest "Advent calendar" in the entire Black Forest region: In the medieval town of Gengenbach, located in the scenic Kinzig River valley, the 200-year-old town hall is transformed into a life-sized Advent calendar, with fanciful designs on each window. One window is opened every evening. The Gengenbach Advent market runs from November 30 to December 23.

The Triberger Weihnachtszauber Christmas event, held in the town of Triberg, offers lighted displays, carnival rides, a fire show, concerts and attractions for the whole family. The event starts on December 25 and continues until December 30. Over 1,000,000 candles transform Germany's tallest waterfalls into a magical, romantic nighttime setting.

For more information call +49 761.89646-0 or visit www.blackforest-tourism.com

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