My wife an I will be in the DM/BW region in our small motorhome for a couple of weeks in August and September. I intend to start in the NW of the region, concentrating on unique 8 and 10 point summits, although some of my previously activated summits may get included if the opportunity is too good to miss!
Two points.
Firstly, I have previously avoided 2m when working outside of the UK. Am I likely to have much success on 2m SSB from the higher summits? Do I need to learn a little German script for successful QSOs or will I get away with using English for calling CQ and a basic SOTA exchange? Obviously I will alert a day or two in advance as the trip progresses. I’ll be operating HF as usual too.
Secondly, if anyone is going to be around the same time I’m always keen to meet up for joint activations so either comment here or send me a DM.
Hi Gerald, as you plan to visit the northwestern region of Baden-Württemberg, you might use SOTlas to get some nice mountains in the Black Forest: Hohloh, Badener Höhe and Hornisgrinde are 10pointers and the Mauzenberg has 8 points. There is the Grindehütte (Grinde hut) https://www.grindehuette.de/ on the Hornisgrinde with webcams. Concerning the language, quite a lot of German hams understand and speak english. A problem would be to contact hams on 2m SSB, as it normally is quiet on the band. There was an activation of many mountains in the southern Black Forest last year, but that was a special SOTA operation. I am the deputy chairman of our local association A07 Karlsruhe, so just give me a call if you’re near or mail me at dh2id@darc.de. You are also welcome visit our club home at Karlsruhe. Vy 73, Alex - DH2ID
Don’t forget the 2026 SOTA Challenge. Many chasers and activators are currently using SSB and CW on 2m. So definitely worth a try especially on the weekend.
For weekdays higher mountains are obviously better for more audience - HI. On a weekend I guess a well working 2m FM station should get you your 4 QSO.