Monday, February 26, 2018 by
Denise & Sebastian Topics
Heidelberg
My legs are probably going to be a bit sore, I think, as I gasp for air. I let my fingers dust the stone wall beside me, mindful of the poison ivy and some thorny vines, with the sneaking suspicion I may just collapse at any moment. Every traveler that passes going back down briefly makes eye contact with a knowing, encouraging glance that seems to say, it's worth it, keep going!
Sebastian, his Dad, and I are tempted to stop at the first level lookout area that has shade and benches, but its already full.
No, let's go higher.
So we go higher. The second level lookout area has a view that is blocked by a tree, where no one sits.
No, let's go higher still.
We reach a somewhat small incline of about 15 degrees with a small, sunny meadow in front with just the view of the city we're looking for; the castle, churches, bridge, all framed by trees. We can step up on a ledge to see even better.
With plans on climbing the tower of the Heiliggeistkirche Church later, I need to save some energy.
Going down is just as tricky because the cobblestone paths are now going against us and stick up waiting to catch toes. I keep lagging behind, stopping to take pictures as an excuse for catching my breath. I'm going to be very, very sore tomorrow, but for the best panoramic views of Heidelberg, it pays to climb up the Schlangenweg, snake path. Named appropriately due to its winding path, before you get to see the stunning views, you will have to walk UP about 1600 feet. It is a steep climb and not recommended when the path is slippery. Schlangenweg trail connects downtown Heidelberg starting at the Old Bridge up to the Philosophenweg, the philosopher's path.
The Philosophenweg owes his name to Heidelberg students, who discovered the route early on as an ideal place for long walks. In earlier centuries, every student had to study philosophy before the beginning of their individual studies. Students were also called philosophers, hence the origin of the name - and not, as tourists are often told, because well-known philosophers walked there.
Take a left at the end of the Schlangenweg to continue on the Philosophenweg path for about 2.5 miles. It will end in the Neuenheim city part of Heidelberg, more of a residential area. Head south to the Theodor-Heuss-Bruecke, which is the closest bridge to get you back to downtown Heidelberg. If you do not want to walk the Philosophenweg, you can head down the Schlangenweg back to where you started.
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