33rd German Mill Day — Mooswaldmühle Lauterbach 2026

German Mill Day — a nationwide initiative

The German Mill Day has traditionally taken place on Whit Monday since 1994 and is coordinated by the Association of German Mills e.V. (DGM). Around 1,000 water, wind, and post mills open their doors nationwide — the 33rd edition in 2026 falls on Whit Monday, May 25, 2026. In the Central Black Forest, the Mooswaldmühle in Lauterbach is one of the most impressive stops.

Mooswaldmühle — highest-altitude farm mill in the Black Forest

The Mooswaldmühle is located on the Mooswald ridge above the Sulzbach district of Lauterbach, in the Rottweil district. It is one of the few highest-altitude farm mills in the Black Forest that are still fully functional. The overshot water wheel is powered by a millstream that carries enough water year-round — a rarity at this altitude. The millstone, hopper, bolter, and flour bin are in their original places and will be put into operation on Mill Day.

Milling demonstration and mill tour

All day long, the miller will show how flour is made from grain: filling the grain, opening the water wheel, running the millstone, sieving the flour, and bagging it. Those who wish can take home a small bag of freshly ground rye or spelt. Tours explain the historical technology, the history of the mill, and the importance of the Black Forest highland mills for the self-sufficiency of farmers until the 20th century.

Catering by the Sulzbacher Mädchen Club

The Sulzbacher Mädchen Club (SMC) will provide catering at the adjacent Käppelebauernhof: coffee, homemade cake, snack platters with Black Forest ham and sausage, regional drinks. The proceeds will go to the youth work of the SMC. The Käppelebauernhof itself is a typical Black Forest full-time farm with residential and barn architecture and a hipped roof — also worth a look.

Lauterbach in the Black Forest

Lauterbach in the Black Forest (approx. 2,800 inhabitants, AGS 08325-) is located between Schramberg and Triberg in the Central Black Forest. The municipality comprises the districts of Lauterbach, Sulzbach, and Hinterlehengericht. The area is characterized by deep valleys, dense fir forests, and high meadows. Mill Day is a good occasion to combine a visit to the Mooswaldmühle with a hike along the Mittelweg or the themed trail "Mooswald-Höhe".