Trails and sights

For fun and relaxation

Heidelberg’s location means it can offer nature lovers all kinds of ways of switching off from the hustle and bustle of the city, from informative excursions to invigorating walks and cycle tours.

MAPS

Out and about in the forest

Viewpoints
Barbecue areas
Rest areas/huts
Assembly points
Themed paths
Car parks for hikers

For example: How about a visit to the arboretums? These groups of exotic giant redwoods can be found at two locations in Heidelberg city forest: Sprünghöhe and Speyerer Hof. The routes are circular so are an ideal way to discover the huge trees. On the ‘Wine and Culture’ themed hiking path, walkers can explore the varied cultivated landscapes of the Rohrbach vineyards – one of the oldest winegrowing areas in Badische Bergstraße.

The 126-kilometer Neckarsteig hiking path between Heidelberg and Bad Wimpfen is certified in recognition of the high-quality walking experience that it offers. The many different paths on the route are very narrow and authentic, so ideal for an ‘up close and personal’ experience of the countryside. On the Königstuhl hill the City of Heidelberg has prepared two very special forest paths: the Via Naturae and the Forest Adventure Trail (Walderlebnispfad).

There are also some exciting cycling and mountain biking routes through Heidelberg’s forest. Neckartal-Odenwald Nature Park has some 300 kilometers of clearly-signposted mountain biking circuits, while the Königstuhl hill boasts a freeride training route. Nordic Walkers will enjoy the Königstuhl Nordic Walking trail.

For those interested in both geology and culture, Heiligenberg Geopoint is worth a visit, and the car park there is the starting point for a series of hiking trails and circuits. Other geological highlights in the area include the ‘Loess on the Haarlass’ (Löss am Haarlass) geotope and the southern Gaisberg massif (südliche Gaisbergscholle).