Only one hour from Stuttgart, eight Michelin stars are twinkling over the tiny town of Baiersbronn nestled in SouthWest Germany's Black Forest National Park. The city of just 14,500 residents has the highest density of Michelin stars in all of Europe.  Excellent food is the name of the game in Baiersbronn whether you are speaking about one of the star chefs or the cooks at the local pensions. Gourmands are said to walk on air in Baiersbronn because the emphasis on good food is pervasive from the traditional taverns in their third generation to the gourmet hikes and cabins with open fireplaces and hearty regional menus.

The star chefs are known for their quality but also the charming and elegant atmosphere in which they present their masterpieces. Harald Wohlfahrt greets the customers of his three Michelin star restaurant 'Schwarzwaldstube' (part of the Hotel Traube Tonbach) with light French haute cuisine. Claus-Peter Lumpp composes his works at the three star Restaurant Bareiss, which is part of the five-star-superior hotel of the same name. Jörg Sackmann, earned his two Michelin stars for the Restaurant Schlossberg. Mr. Sackmann is not only the chef but also the owner of the four star superior Romantik Hotel Sackmann where Restaurant Schlossberg is located.

Whether you be a visitor seeking a Michelin-starred meal or a hearty Black Forest repast, you will get your money's worth in Baiersbronn. Three of the five-star luxury hotels in Baden-Württemberg are located in the city and each of them have comprehensive spa programs with beautifully outfitted wellness centers and outdoor landscaping.  

The real fun starts however when about 100 car and driving enthusiasts gather to race their sports cars and lordly limousines at the vintage (old-timer) rally called the 'Baiersbronn Classic'. Anyone can join in the fun and it is especially appropriate for visitors as the three day race takes place on some of the nicest routes through the Black Forest that only the locals are aware of. It is a wonderful combination of driving, landscape and cuisine. The rally showcases some of Baiersbronn's famous cooking: the hearty local cuisine on the first night and the formal, high class meals on the gala evening.

The Baiersbronn Classic takes always place between Thursday and Sunday in the last week of September and traces back to the first German motor sports event after WWII: the Primary Rock Rally on July 21, 1946. For those desiring to experience their own 'Baiersbronn Classic', the Baiersbronn Tourist Office offers an individualized package. For conoisseurs, who also would like to revel in the art of a Baiersbronn star-cook can book a gourmet-package with a four or six course meal with Jörg Sackmann. There is no doubt that the visitors to  Baiersbronn will eat well and want to return. For more information on Baiersbronn's culinary prowes, please click here.