The opening stage does not chase the highest Black Forest roads, but follows a very rideable line through the mountains. After Freiburg, cycle paths and small roads lead via Denzlingen to Waldkirch, with the Elz, views towards Kastelburg and wooded slopes alongside. The route then runs up the Elz valley through Elzach and the Prechtal to Landwassereck. A long descent brings Gutach and the Kinzig valley into view: Black Forest farmhouses, railway lines and river bends. Via Schiltach, the stage finishes in Alpirsbach with half-timbered streets, monastery heritage and brewing history.
