In the western foothills of the Black Forest, Baden-Baden is the most picturesque of the German spa towns. The springs have been known for more than 2,000 years; however, the popularity of the city as a spa dates from the early 19th century. Clients included Queen Victoria, Wilhelm I, Napoleon III, Berlioz, Brahms and Dostoyevsky, who wrote “The Gambler” while at the Casino Baden-Baden. Today, golf and tennis are both popular, and horse racing can be enjoyed each August at nearby Iffezheim. The countryside is ideal for hiking and mountain climbing, plus skiing in winter. Strasbourg in France is an easy day trip. Southeast of Baden-Baden are some of Europe’s top restaurants; options with one, two or three Michelin stars can be found in and around Baiersbronn and Baden-Baden.