The Black Forest Village

While on our European family vacation we spent the afternoon in the small tourist town of Hofgut Sternen. You can also find it by looking for The Black Forest Village or Ravennaschluct because of it’s location. Most importantly the town is known for the Hofgut Sternen Hotel, which once hosted Marie Antoinette.

The quaint little town of Hofgut Sternen has the look and feel of a traditional German village. The Hofgut Sternen Hotel, at the center of town, is surrounded by a chapel, several shops and German style restaurants. The town features two cuckoo shops and a glass shop with demonstrations to help you immerse yourself in the culture of Germany.

Not only can you visit the lovely Black Forest Village but you can hike the trails surrounding the town. Just behind the hotel is the Ravennaschluct viaduct that is the trailhead leading to the beautiful Ravennaschluct (Ravenna Gorge).

The village of Hofgut Sternen is active year round and even has a fabulous Christmas Market. The Christmas Market, held under the Ravennaschluct viaduct, is a collection of small wood houses surrounding a large brightly lit Christmas tree. Each of the wood houses feature a selection of handpick and handcrafted items made in the region.

The Black Forest Village

The Glass Shop

The colorful glass shop has a large assortment of figurines, vases, jewelry, and glassware. While there be sure to attend a glass blowing demonstration. They have demonstrations daily in the morning and in the afternoon.

The Black Forest Cuckoo Clock

One of the unique features of Hofgut Sternen is its association with the traditional craft of cuckoo clock making. The area is known for its long-standing tradition of crafting these iconic timepieces, and the guesthouse often has demonstrations and exhibits related to cuckoo clocks.

There are actually two cuckoo shops in the village, both with a huge collection of clocks available to purchase. The real highlight of the village is the cuckoo clock at the center of town. When the clock chimes every half and hour lifesize figurines will dance on the balcony above.

Conclusion

The village of Hofgut Sternen is a wonderful place to stop and experience the rich history and culture of Germany. The quaint German style village has several souvenir shops with demonstrations and restaurants with German style cuisine.

If you enjoy being out in the fresh air and hiking, the trail to the Ravennaschluct (Ravenna Gorge) starts just behind the hotel. In addition, there are several other trail surrounding the village that take you into the Black Forest.