2018 Black Forest Walkshop
Get your ideas - and yourself - out in the open
The 2018 Walkshop will take us through southern Germany's Black Forest as we go for a multi-day hike with other technology and design thought leaders.
A select group of 10 people will recharge while being offline - walking and wandering in small groups through the picturesque backdrop of the Black Forest. These 10 will discuss a question and then swap topics when a line of thought has run its course. The path we follow through Germany will help guide interactions: the path will narrow to restrict a discussion to a single pair of walkers who can fit together on the trail. And later, as larger spaces open up, the path will allow for us to regroup, slow down, and take stock of our surroundings.
Ideas tend to flow more freely in a Walkshop than they would around a conference table. People are more inclined to ‘think outside the box’, and come up with fresh and radical insights and innovations when they go off the grid for a few days. And by the second day of the hike - the normal inhibitions and pretense all melt away while you focus on the trail, your destination, your companions, and yourself.
We hope you can attend this fall to gain new insights and build new connections.
-- Jessie and Mark
Tickets Prices in USD
I can't go this year - but would like to stay informed about future Walkshops
Additional Information
Saturday, Sept 29th (Optional): Arrive in Germany
Land 1 day early, get over jetlag, and stay in a major city (most likely Frankfurt or Munich) before we head into the woods.
Sunday, Sept 30th: Travel day
Take a train to the black forest and transfer from train station to hotel by private car.
We will stay in a 4 star wellness hotel before beginning our journey.
Monday, Oct 1: First Day on the Trail
Enjoy your breakfast buffet and the wellness facilities in the morning - start hiking by 11 AM. Today’s hike is 15 km total (and if you prefer a shorter hike there is an option to cut the hike short at 7 km and hop on the train). Day 1 is a really smooth stretch down from the top of the mountain into the valley – a bit steep 7 km – but in absolutely beautiful terrain. And if we time it right, we can get refreshed at the beergarden in the valley. After a break, we continue crossing over another mountain. Our group's hard efforts will be rewarded with a beautiful chapel and the best vistas of the day as we descend the hillside into town (and our next hotel).
Tuesday, Oct 2: Second Day on the Trail
The first part of day 2 is only 6 km, but a steep climb up and over a mountain, mostly on small trails. On top of the mountain we will stop at a cabin with fantastic vistas overlooking the valley. Part 2 is 11 km which starts off with a castle ruin and a small chapel. Our group can enjoy a self-serve fridge at a farmhouse before climbing up a sightseeing tower. The hike down the mountain to our next hotel has another surprise: a small chapel with miniature Black Forest mills on display. Tonight we are all staying at a wellness hotel with an excellent restaurant. It is only a short walk from the town center and a nice chance to relax and recover.
Wednesday, Oct 3rd, Third Day on the Trail
Today’s hike is short and easy (13 km). Once we get to the summit we will enjoy views over the valley below. From there the trails take us down into the next town we are staying in. On a clear day this hike provides plenty of panoramic views and an option to stop for lunch at local restaurant. In the evening we will explore restaurants in the new town.
Thursday, Oct 4th, Fourth Day on the Trail
We saved the best for last. This trail has it all with scenic spots, a cabin, a schnapps fountain, vineyards, 2 restaurants, 1 café, and a possible shortcut which saves 6 km ( if you're really tired by this point ). In our last town, we have upgraded to a 4 star hotel to relax and recover.
Friday, Oct 5th - Travel Day / OPTIONAL: Extension for Oktoberfest
We will depart the Black Forest area and head back to the city. For those who wish to stay on, late fall is a great time to celebrate in Bavaria. Oktoberfest will be in full swing and we can explore the tents, get some pretzels, and sing as loudly as we can.
What's included in my ticket purchase?
Stay in friendly, family-run guesthouses along the way
Relax in luxurious accomodation
Big breakfasts will keep you going all day long
Luggage? Don't worry, we'll move it for you! All you have to do is focus on the hike - your gear will be waiting for you at the next B&B.
Detailed maps/notes mean you'll never get lost (And waterproof map-case keeps your maps dry)
Get Insider tips on the best places to eat and drink along the way
Explore the local history of Germany and discover the most exciting attractions on the trail
Your RSVP covers the hotel costs at each stop along the trail and breakfast every morning. (Any trail snacks, lunch, dinner, and evening drinks will be on you). Airfare and transport to and from the trail will be your responsibility - but all transport once we arrive around the trail (including moving your luggage each day from stop to stop) will be provided for you.