All Saints Waterfalls

The All Saints Waterfalls (Allerheiligen-Wasserfälle) near Oppenau are the largest natural waterfalls in the northern Black Forest. The Grindenbach stream tumbles down seven cascades through a narrow rocky gorge, and a trail of stairs and bridges lets you climb right alongside the water. At the top stand the romantic ruins of All Saints Abbey. It is a free, refreshing stop on any Black Forest road trip.

What makes the falls special

The falls are also known as the "Seven Tubs," after the round pools carved out at the foot of each step. Sources differ on the total drop: 66 meters (217 feet) or almost 90 meters (Black Forest tourism board). Either way, the setting is the draw: moss-covered porphyry rock, ferns and dense mountain forest.

Foresters cut the first path into the gorge in 1840, using ladders at the steps; stone stairs have been in place since 1964. Today you climb from the lower parking lot past every cascade to the abbey in roughly half an hour. The route has many steps and can be wet and slippery, so wear sturdy shoes. It is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.

All Saints Abbey ruins

Founded around 1196 by Uta of Schauenburg, the abbey belonged to the Premonstratensian order until it was dissolved in 1802. Two years later, on June 6, 1804, lightning struck the tower and fire gutted the buildings. The early Gothic west front, parts of the nave and a terraced Baroque garden survive. Open-air theater performances take place in the ruined nave each July, and an exhibition tells the abbey's story.

How to get there

The falls lie about 6 miles north of Oppenau in the Black Forest, roughly 1 hour 15 minutes by car from Karlsruhe or Strasbourg. Drive via county road K 5370 from Oppenau or K 5371 from Ottenhöfen; there are parking areas at the bottom of the falls and near the abbey, which fill up on sunny weekends. By public transportation, take a regional train to Oppenau or Ottenhöfen and continue by bus. Service is limited, so check the Deutsche Bahn planner before you go. The Deutschlandticket covers regional trains and buses.

Tickets and best time to visit

Visiting the waterfalls and the abbey ruins is free, with no fixed opening hours. The falls are at their most powerful after snowmelt and heavy rain. In winter the stairs may be icy, so take extra care.

Is it worth visiting? Yes, especially if you are driving the Black Forest High Road (B 500) or visiting the Black Forest National Park. Plan one to two hours for the falls and abbey, more if you add a longer loop hike.

Nearby

• Black Forest National Park: the visitor center at Ruhestein can be reached on foot
• Mummelsee: a legendary mountain lake below the Hornisgrinde peak
• Black Forest High Road: a scenic drive along the ridges