Badenweiler lies on the southern side of the Black Forest. Mediterranean air flows from the Rhone valley through the Belfort Gap into this noble margrave area, once home to princes of the Holy Roman Empire. To the north and the east, the Black Forest shields Badenweiler from cold winds and extremes of temperature. Badenweiler's many attractions include the Cassiopeia spa waters. The town has been known since Roman times for the relaxing, healing qualities of its warm springs. Today, Badenweiler is one of southern Germany's most beautiful spa resorts immersed in enchanting countryside. Vassals of the Roman emperor Vespasian (69 to 79 A.D.) discovered the healing springs and named the place "Aquae Villae", literally "water town". Alternatively, you could enjoy a fine drop of something equally intoxicating. For hundreds of years many a good drop has been pressed in southern spa towns. The regional specialty is Gutedel. A light, mild, palatable wine. Experts say the young wine is best. You might prefer something with a little more body. Why not try a full-bodied Spätburgunder? The noblest wine in the world pressed from the grape of the same name.