Heidelberg, the epitome of German romance with its world-famous Heidelberg Castle and the picturesque old town district, attracts well over ten million visitors every year. But there is much more to see and do in the town and in its vicinity. Right outside of Heidelberg is the tranquil Neckar Valley with its castles, fortresses, and quaint little towns. Schwetzingen Palace Gardens, one of the masterpieces of European garden art, is less than ten miles away.
Half an hour from Heidelberg lies the city of Speyer with its cathedral, one of the most important artistic monuments of the Holy Roman Empire and one of the most significant examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe. A little bit further to the west lies the haven for wine lovers, the Palatinate, where Riesling prevails, but where many other varieties of wine are produced, as well. For a good reason, the Palatinate’s nickname is Tuscany of Germany, and the friendly people there are happy to showcase their traditional cuisine as well as their delicious wines.
This list is just a selection of possible destinations. I often travel to places where my guests once lived or were stationed when they served in the military. When we explore areas where ancestors of my guests once lived, we also travel to a wide variety of places in southwest Germany. If guests wish to visit other places, I am more than happy to accompany them as well.