Heidelberg, a historic city full of history and charm, attracts countless visitors every year. But it’s not just the Old Town that is worth a visit – the Heiligenberg on the other side of the Neckar harbours fascinating secrets of the past. Whether you are a nature lover or lose yourself in the literary works of past philosophers, our tours offer you an unforgettable journey of discovery that combines history, nature and breathtaking views.
Discover nature and history on the Heiligenberg
Very close to the lively Old Town is a true paradise for those who love to explore: the Heiligenberg reveals impressive and relaxing nature with dense forests, diverse flora and fauna and interesting sights that provide an insight into Heidelberg’s historical past.
The tour takes you up the Heiligenberg, which is located just above the Thingstätte, and rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Heidelberg, the Odenwald and the Neckar Valley. The viewpoints on the tour offer ideal photo backdrops and invite you to linger and relax.
Follow in the footsteps of Heidelberg’s philosophers
If you are not only interested in nature in and around Heidelberg, but also want to immerse yourself in the literary and philosophical history of the city, this is the place for you. All around the mountain, you will find historical sights from different eras to accompany you on your journey through the past:
- Philosopher’s Way: The approximately two-kilometre-long and sometimes somewhat steep hiking trail starts in Neuenheim and leads up to the Heiligenberg. While the path is lined with magnificent houses at the beginning, after a while you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Odenwald and Heidelberg Castle opposite, the Old Town and the Neckar Valley.
- Eichendorffanlage: On the way to the highest point of the Heiligenberg, you will come to the Eichendorffanlage. The small, idyllic park above Heidelberg invites you to linger.
- Fuchsrondell: The rest of the ascent takes you past the Fuchsrondell, which offers a wonderful view of the Rhine plain.
- Thingstätte: A little later you reach the Thingstätte. The legendary amphitheatre was built during the Nazi era in Germany and was intended to be reminiscent of ancient Greek theatres. Today it serves as a venue for various cultural events.
- Michaelskloster: Once you reach the Heiligenberg, you will discover the ruins of the monastery where Benedictine monks used to run a writing workshop. For an even better view of the Rhine Valley, visitors can climb two towers of the still partially standing complex.
- Stephanskloster: Just a few metres away is the second monastery on the Heiligenberg, St Stephen’s Monastery. However, only the remains of its foundations have been preserved.
On the way back to Neuenheim, the tour offers you further magnificent views of Heidelberg, the Königstuhl and the Neckar valley from completely different perspectives. Let our tours inspire you – they bring you closer to the history of past eras and allow you to experience the historical atmosphere on the Heiligenberg up close.
Pack your hiking boots and off you go
Pack your hiking boots, weatherproof clothing and a good mood and off you go: Our tours are suitable for all ages and offer young and old an unforgettable journey through Heidelberg’s past.
Get ready for an unforgettable journey of discovery on the Heiligenberg. Book a tour today and experience Heidelberg’s history, nature and panoramic views. We look forward to accompanying you on this journey of discovery.
