A journey through winter sports history
The Black Forest Ski Museum in Hinterzarten is a fascinating center for winter sports history and cultural heritage of the Black Forest. Housed in a historic building, it offers visitors a comprehensive insight into the development of skiing in the region – from simple wooden skis to the modern snowboard.
History and origins
The initiator of the museum was Georg Thoma, who made the community of Hinterzarten famous worldwide with his Olympic victory in Squaw Valley in 1960. He was the first Central European to break the Norwegian dominance in Nordic combined. The museum was realized with the support of then-mayor Hansjörg Eckert.
The Hugenhof, which houses the museum, was built in the 18th century and provides an authentic backdrop for presenting the region's winter sports history. The over 300-year-old building is itself a significant cultural monument of the Black Forest.
Exhibitions and collections
The museum extends over two floors and houses various thematic departments:
| department | Description |
|---|---|
| House history | History and architecture of the Hugenhof |
| Georg Thoma Room | Memorabilia of the Olympic champion |
| Beginnings of skiing | Development of skiing in the Black Forest from 1890 |
| ski mountain Feldberg | Importance of the Feldberg for winter sports |
| First ski films | Film history with “Miracle of the Snowshoe” by Dr. Arnold Fanck |
| Winter sports equipment | Evolution of equipment over the decades |
| Black Forest winter | Seasonal specialties and traditions |
| bobsleigh | History of bobsleighing in the region |
| Winter painter | Artworks with winter motifs from the Black Forest |
| Ski club history | Development of local sports clubs |
| Ski fashion | Fashion development of winter sports clothing |
Not only historical exhibits are on display, but also memorabilia of successful athletes such as Georg Thoma and Christl Cranz as an alpine runner.
Special attractions
VR Experience “Ski Jumping Hinterzarten”
A special attraction is Europa-Park's new VR experience. Visitors can virtually perform two jumps in the Adler Ski Stadium and, for about three minutes, follow in the footsteps of ski jumping legends such as Martin Schmitt and Georg Thoma. The VR application was developed by Europa-Park in collaboration with VR Coaster and the Ski Museum and can be used for €5.
Special exhibitions
Regularly changing special exhibitions take place on the museum's top floor. Approximately four presentations per year feature works by contemporary artists, thus establishing the museum's connection to modern art.
Practical information
Opening times and admission
The museum is open all year round at the following times:
| weekday | Opening hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 14: 00–17: 00 pm |
| Wednesday | 14: 00–17: 00 pm |
| Thursday | Closed |
| Friday | 14: 00–17: 00 pm |
| Saturday | 12: 00–17: 00 pm |
| Sunday | 12: 00–17: 00 pm |
An open tour takes place every second and fourth Saturday of the month at 15:00 p.m. No registration is necessary.
Location and directions
The Black Forest Ski Museum is located in the Hugenhof in Hinterzarten:
- Address: Erlenbrucker Straße 35, 79856 Hinterzarten
- Phone: 07652 / 982192
- Email: info@schwarzwaelder-skimuseum.de
The museum is accessible by car (parking is available) and by public transport (train and bus). It is partially wheelchair accessible via a separate entrance.
visitor service
The museum offers various amenities for visitors:
- Museum shop with souvenirs and literature
- Wheelchair access (partial, via separate entrance)
- Parking
- Quiz about the tour for children and families
Special tours can be arranged for groups. The Friends of the Black Forest Ski Museum Hinterzarten eV supports the museum's activities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, children can discover a lot in the museum. There's a special quiz along the tour that makes the visit more interesting for families.
Photography is permitted for private purposes in most areas, but without flash to protect the exhibits.
The VR experience is suitable for most visitors, but may cause dizziness in some people. If you have any health concerns, please ask museum staff.
Yes, special exhibitions and cultural events take place regularly. Current information can be found on the museum's website.
You should plan about 1-2 hours for a comprehensive tour.
An open tour takes place every second and fourth Saturday of the month at 15:00 p.m. No registration is required.
