High above the forests of the Black Forest stands a little-known observation tower that rewards visitors with one of the widest panoramas in southern Germany.
From the top of the Eugen-Keidel Tower on Schauinsland, the landscape stretches across three countries, from the rolling hills of the Black Forest to the Rhine Valley, the Vosges Mountains in France, and even the distant Swiss Alps on exceptionally clear days.
After riding the famous Schauinslandbahn cable car to the summit, reaching this tower feels like discovering a hidden viewpoint that most visitors don’t expect, and once you climb to the top, the scale of the landscape becomes truly breathtaking.
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| The Eugen-Keidel Tower rises above the forests of Schauinsland, offering one of the best panoramic viewpoints in the Black Forest. |
A Viewpoint Above the Black Forest
After reaching the mountain station, a pleasant walk through open meadows and forest paths leads you to the tower. The walk itself is part of the experience, peaceful, scenic, and full of classic Black Forest landscapes.
On clear days, the panorama stretches incredibly far. From the top platform you can see:
- The rolling hills of the Black Forest
- The Rhine Valley below
- The Vosges Mountains in France
- Even the distant Swiss Alps on very clear days
It’s one of those rare viewpoints where you suddenly understand just how vast this landscape truly is.
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| From the top of the tower, visitors can enjoy sweeping views over the Black Forest, the Rhine Valley, and distant mountain ranges. |
Climbing the Tower
The Eugen-Keidel Tower is a steel observation structure that you can climb using an interior staircase.
The ascent is short but exciting, and once you reach the top platform, you’re rewarded with 360-degree views that are far more dramatic than what you see from ground level.
This is why most visitors consider it an essential stop when visiting Schauinsland.
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| Climbing the tower’s staircase leads to a breathtaking 360-degree viewing platform high above the Black Forest. |
What It Feels Like at the Top
Climbing the staircase inside the tower is surprisingly quick, but the experience changes dramatically once you step onto the viewing platform.
When we reached the top, the first thing we noticed was the strong mountain wind and the incredible sense of openness. Unlike viewpoints surrounded by trees, this platform offers completely unobstructed views in every direction.
Standing there, it becomes clear why this is considered one of the best panoramic spots near Freiburg, the landscape seems endless.
A Perfect Stop After the Cable Car Ride
If you take the Schauinslandbahn to the summit, setting aside time for the tower is essential.
Because while the cable car ride is impressive, it’s only from the top of the Eugen-Keidel Tower that you fully understand the scale of the Black Forest, a sweeping panorama where hills, valleys, and distant mountains blend into one unforgettable view.
Frequently Asked Questions Eugen-Keidel Tower
Is the Eugen-Keidel Tower free to visit?
Yes, the tower is open year-round and free to climb.How long does it take to walk to the tower?
The walk from the cable car station takes about 15 to 20 minutes.Is the tower suitable for children?
Yes, the walk is easy, but children should be supervised when climbing the staircase.Can you see the Alps from the tower?
On very clear days, the Swiss Alps are visible in the distance.Visiting the Eugen-Keidel Tower: Practical Information
If you’re planning a visit, here are some helpful details to know.
Walking distance:
About 15–20 minutes from the Schauinslandbahn mountain station.
Difficulty level:
Easy walk on wide paths, suitable for most visitors.
Entrance fee:
Free to climb.
Tower height:
Approximately 31 meters.
Best time to visit:
Late afternoon or sunset for the best lighting and visibility.
Weather tip:
Clear days are essential, fog can completely block the view.
Photography tip:
Autumn offers the most colorful landscapes.