Imagine yourself sitting in a historic railway carriage, gently pulling on an old windowpane, gazing out at the wild and romantic scenery of the southern Black Forest. A steam locomotive whistles up ahead, and a white cloud rises above the deep green fir trees. Sounds like something out of an old film? That's exactly what awaits you on a ride with the legendary Sauschwänzlebahn!
The museum railway in the southern Black Forest is a real highlight for families, railway enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to experience a nostalgic journey through one of Germany's most beautiful landscapes. Let's delve into the history of this special railway line together and discover why it's an absolute must for your Black Forest vacation today.
Why is it actually called the "Pig's Tail Railway"?
The name "Sauschwänzlebahn" (Pig's Tail Railway) is inextricably linked to the fascinating route. Between the Zollhaus-Blumberg and Weizen stations, the railway had to overcome a considerable difference in altitude of 231 meters. Since the distance as the crow flies between the two towns is only 9,6 kilometers, the gradient was far too steep for a normal railway.
The ingenious engineers of the time found a solution: they artificially lengthened the route to 25 kilometers by laying the tracks in wide loops, curves, and even through spectacular spiral tunnels. Because the tracks curl around on the map like the curly tail of a pig, the locals affectionately nicknamed the railway the "Sauschwänzlebahn" ( Pig's Tail Railway ).
The story: From strategic military project to museum railway
The origins of the Sauschwänzlebahn (officially the Wutachtalbahn) are anything but romantic. The line was built between 1887 and 1890. At the time, it served as a strategic bypass for the military. The aim was to be able to transport troops and supplies southwards in the event of a conflict with France without having to cross Swiss territory.
In reality, the line was never used extensively for military purposes. Instead, it was used for regular passenger and freight traffic. However, due to the long travel time – caused by the winding route – operations were hardly profitable in the long run. Passenger service was discontinued in 1955.
Salvation came in the 1970s: Dedicated railway enthusiasts recognized the historical and touristic value of the line. Since 1977, historic steam and diesel locomotives have once again been running here as a museum railway, bringing long-gone eras to life.
The route in numbers
To give you a feel for the technical masterpiece that is the Sauschwänzlebahn railway, we have summarized the most important facts for you in a clear and concise manner:
| Property | data |
|---|---|
| Route | Zollhaus-Blumberg train station (702 m above sea level) to Weizen train station |
| route length | 25 kilometers (only 9,6 kilometers as the crow flies) |
| Height difference | 231 Meters |
| Tunnel | 6 (including the large Stockhald circular tunnel with a length of 1.700 m) |
| Viaducts & Bridges | 4 (e.g. Epfenhofer Viaduct: 264 m long, 34 m high) |
Your experience: A ride on a steam locomotive today
A ride on the Sauschwänzlebahn (Wutach Valley Railway) is today a leisurely, round-trip journey, just like our great-grandparents experienced. You take a seat in old, lovingly restored carriages. When the historic steam or diesel locomotive starts up, the ride rocks and rattles gently.
It's a ride for young and old alike, where you can film and photograph to your heart's content – after all, there are plenty of subjects to photograph, such as the deep gorges, towering viaducts, and dark tunnels! And if you get a little hungry: a historic catering car is also on board, providing you with cool drinks and snacks.
Tip: Plan your visit in advance and check the current timetables and ticket prices directly on the official Sauschwänzlebahn website.
Perfectly combined: hiking and excursions in the surrounding area
If you are already in the beautiful southern Black Forest, you should definitely combine your trip on the Sauschwänzlebahn with other highlights in the region.
- Hiking in the Grand Canyon of the Black Forest: A true nature experience awaits just a stone's throw away. Wutach Gorge It is the largest canyon in Germany. Wild rivers, narrow paths and impressive rock faces make every hike unforgettable.
- For true hiking fans: Do you want to spend more time outdoors? Then pack your hiking boots and explore the famous Canyon Trail, which leads across 119 kilometers through the fascinating gorges of the Southern Black Forest Nature Park.
- Culinary stopover: Is your stomach growling after your train journey? Visit the Adler Ham factory outlet in Bonndorf, which is ideal for a short culinary stop nearby.
- Relaxation by the water: After an exciting steam train ride, you can visit the nearby Schluchsee – the highest reservoir in Germany – a wonderful place to relax, swim or rent a boat.
Frequently asked questions about the Sauschwänzlebahn railway
Where does the journey on the Sauschwänzlebahn begin?
The classic route runs from Blumberg (Zollhaus-Blumberg station) to Stühlingen-Weizen (Weizen station). You can start your journey at either station.
Is food provided during the journey?
Yes, in most cases a lovingly furnished catering wagon accompanies the train, where you can buy small snacks and drinks.
Is the Sauschwänzlebahn suitable for children?
Absolutely! For children, the rumbling steam train ride through the many tunnels and over the high viaducts is a huge, unforgettable adventure.
When does the Sauschwänzlebahn (Pig's Tail Railway) run?
The museum railway does not operate on a regular schedule, but according to a special timetable, which mainly applies on weekends and public holidays during the months from spring to autumn.
