Oppenau: Hiking, Waterfalls and History

Oppenau lies in the Renchtal valley on the edge of the Black Forest National Park. Hiking and mountain biking routes range from easy to challenging, and there are also four paragliding launch sites. This gives you a range of activities to choose from when planning your trip.

Hiking Trails and Landscape

The Renchtalsteig is a long-distance hiking trail, almost 100 kilometres long, that loops around the Renchtal valley. In Oppenau, it passes via Kalikutt and descends to the Hugenhöfe farms. The stated length refers to the entire long-distance trail; the section via Kalikutt to the Hugenhöfe farms is a specific point of reference for Oppenau.

At the Allerheiligen waterfalls, torrents of water plunge almost 90 metres over seven cascades. The visitor path leads through the gorge via numerous steps and several bridges. When planning your walk, take these trail features into account as well as the natural scenery itself.

The Buchkopfturm offers views across the Black Forest, the Rhine Plain and the Vosges. As of 15 August 2026, the tower is closed indefinitely and must not be entered. Check its status again before your trip.

Sights and History

The old town gate is one of Oppenau’s sights. The cemetery chapel is considered the town’s oldest church. The local history museum covers Oppenau’s development and life in the upper Renchtal valley; the museum has more than 2,500 exhibits.

The Museum auf der Straße is also a circular route through Oppenau that presents historical facts. Its subject matter includes a historic mill. The Handwerkerbrunnen fountain depicts local trades and stands in front of a historic mill. These stops combine a walking tour with insights into the town’s history.

The Allerheiligen monastery ruins are considered an early example of Gothic architecture. The ruins are freely accessible, and an information centre is located below the site. A visit lets you explore the complex and learn about its architectural significance.

Festivals and Regional Specialties

The winter Oppenauer Fasent carnival is one of the festival highlights; the exact dates may vary from year to year. The town festival takes place on the last weekend of August, though its dates can also vary each year. If you want to plan your trip around a festival, check the exact dates in advance.

Regional products include Black Forest Kirschwasser cherry brandy and Renchtaler Rossler, made from Jerusalem artichokes. Farmers in Oppenau produce both specialties. They offer further insight into local agriculture and the flavours of the Renchtal region.

Getting There and Choosing a Hotel

Train travellers can change from the IC at Offenburg to the Renchtalbahn towards Oberkirch and Bad Griesbach. Check the timetable before departure. By car, take the Appenweier exit and follow the B28 towards Oberkirch and Freudenstadt.

If you’re looking for a hotel in Oppenau, the focus of your trip can help narrow down your options: hiking and mountain biking, cultural attractions or a festival stay each lead to different day plans. The trails, sights and dates mentioned above can help you choose the right setting for your trip.

Discover more destinations: Ramsbach, Schutterwald, Rheinau, Friesenheim, Kippenheim, Steinach, Mahlberg, Lautenbach.

Back to the main travel overview: Ortenaukreis.