The Kandel, with a height of 1241 meters, is one of the most impressive peaks in the southern Black Forest and is located 25 km northeast of Freiburg. It is known as the local mountain of Waldkirch and offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities and recreation.
The Kandel - a mountain of power
The Kandel towers like a pyramid between the valleys of Elztal, Simonswalder Tal and Glottertal up. The breathtaking view from the summit extends over the Black Forest, to the Vosges and to the Alps. The magical attraction of the Kandel and the impressive surroundings have earned it the nickname "Mountain of Powers".
Arrival and parking facilities
The Kandel can be reached from Waldkirch, St. Peter or Glottertal. At the highest point of the road there is a large parking lot and a mountain inn, from which it is a 400 meter walk to the summit.
Recreational opportunities at the Kandel
The Kandel offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, climbing, paragliding and winter sports. Three lifts and slopes of different levels of difficulty, a boarder park and cross-country ski trails are available.
Geology and relief of the Kandel
The Kandel belongs to the Central Black Forest gneiss region and is particularly impressive due to its exposed location. The constant uplift of the Kandel floe in relation to the Rhine plain is reflected in occasional earthquakes.
Sporting challenges
The Kandel is popular with cyclists and motorcyclists who want to tackle the ascent of 12 kilometers and 926 meters in altitude. In 2000, the third stage of the Germany Tour led over the Kandel, and the Kandel Mountain Run takes place every year.
shelters and cabins
There are various huts on the Kandel, including the Gustav-Beck hut, the Gaisfelsen hut, the Schwarzenberg hut, the Thomas hut, the Langeck hut and the Gummen hut. The Kandelhotel was demolished in 2019 and replaced by a new building, the Bergwelt Kandel.
The Kandel is a popular destination in the southern Black Forest, which offers sporting challenges as well as relaxation and nature experiences. The impressive view, the geological feature and the wide range of leisure activities make it a special place that attracts numerous visitors every year.
