In the Swabian Alps, it is called the “Schwäbisches Hanami” or cherry blossom time. Like the old Japanese tradition in spring, Germany also celebrates the bloom of this tree with hikes, fests, food and wine. Baden-Württemberg is especially proud of their cherry blossoms.
On the volcanic mountain of Jusi Kohlberg, only 25 km from Stuttgart, one can see far and wide the beautiful landscape that carves out the valley of the orchards. If you’ve ever been to Washington, D.C. during this time, you’ll recognize the fragrant scents and beautiful white buds that announce the presence of spring. This is a photographer’s dream landscape.
Upcoming Events
Hikes
Sunday, April 26, 9:30 – 12:30 p.m., Kohlberg
Meet at the Parkplatz Raupental, Metzinger Strasse, 72664 Kohlberg (this will be a guided tour *in german) donations are welcome (rain or shine)
Sunday, April 26, 1:30 p.m., Rutesheim
Meet at Rutesheim Water Tower for a flower bloom walk
Sunday, May 3, 1 p.m., Renningen
Meet at Schwabenschenke restaurant at the North Renningen train station for a flower blossom walk
Sunday, May 3, 1:30 p.m., Herrenberg-Oberjesingen
Meet at Flour mill in Herrenberg-Oberjesingen for a flower blossom walk.
Click on this link for more information and specific directions.
Brandy Tastings & Walk
Sunday, April 26, 2 p.m., Star Zach
Schloss Strasse 16, 72181 Star Zach at Factory Broch
You will begin an orchard walk at the Broch distillery in Star Zach and finish with a brandy tasting in the courtyard in the Brennerei. Click on Manufaktur Broch or call 49 (0) 747 826 0337 for more information.
Fests
Sunday, April 26, 11 a.m., Mösbach
Cherry Blossom Fest, Mösbach 77855
Thousands of cherry trees come to life for this annual Mösbach festival. One of the most highly celebrated fests in the Black Forest, this one offers a vintage tractor show, kids bouncy castle, several delicacies of the region and much more. Guided hikes and special music are available throughout the day as well.
It has been very interesting for me as a self-proclaimed foodie to research the “Bluten”” fests of Swabia. I have learned how the German culture and people celebrate the seasons. They seem to welcome in the newest fruit or vegetable as if saying “Guten Tag” or “Welcome, we’ve missed you” to an old friend they haven’t seen since last year. Another lesson learned is that although they may be missed as the season passes, another one is not too far behind to usher in and celebrate.
Whether your favorite German cake is the Black Forest Cake made with Kirschwasser (cherry water) or you just enjoy being outdoors, I hope you celebrate spring.
Author’s Profile: Wendy Payne is a military spouse and lives with her family in Stuttgart, Germany. She is a freelance writer, blogger and photographer. She also enjoys gardening, hiking, yoga and sharing Europe with people.