Heidelberg, Germany

A solo weekend in the mountains of Germany following a long week of work travel was a fun adventure. After taking a beautiful train ride from Cologne along the Rhine viewing amazing hilltop castles and vineyards climbing up the mountains out of the river, I was excited to explore.

Activities

Philosopher’s Weg — A hike up a particularly steep incline (though all paved and totally walkable) is well worth it when you get a killer view of the Alt Stadt and the castle. Heidelberg is known for the number of philosophers who studied there and called it home. Many were said to have taken this walk for inspiration!

Thingstätte — An old Nazi amphatheater hidden back in the woods is really quite beautiful, yet eery. The best part though is discovering an old monestary at the very top off the hill behind the stadium seating. It was incredibly peaceful and interesting to see the layers of history hidden up there.

Food

Schneeball — Try one of these spherical confections available at many of the little shops in the Alt Stadt. It comes in dozens of flavors and is traditional from nearby Rothenberg.

Zum Anker — Way out in the countryside along the Neckar river this restaurant is attached to a working farm and features some classic Swabian fare. Almost better than the food — petting the cows that all have their names tagged on their ears! Eric was a winner.