Neckar Cycle Path

Over approximately 45 kilometres, the route leads you from Münsterplatz in Villingen through the quiet Brigach Valley to the medieval towers of Rottweil. Along the way, you pass through dark fir forests, the baroque pilgrimage church of Maria Hochheim and enjoy wide vistas across the Swabian Jura.

For around 70 kilometres, the trail follows the young River Neckar through towns such as Oberndorf, home to the Dominican Museum, and Rottenburg with its impressive Cathedral of St Martin. In Tübingen, you are greeted by the picturesque Neckarfront, with the Hölderlin Tower and the brightly painted half-timbered houses along the riverbank.

This 55-kilometre section combines peaceful river meadows with vineyards and small towns such as Nürtingen. In Stuttgart, the route takes you along the vine-covered slopes of the Rotenberg, following the Neckar riverside path to Schlossplatz, where the State Gallery and the Old Castle stand as striking witnesses to the city’s history.

Across some 60 kilometres, you cycle through the very heart of Württemberg’s wine country. Between Marbach, with the Schiller National Museum, and the ruins of Stettenfels Castle near Untergruppenbach, vineyards, meandering river bends and charming villages accompany your ride until you reach the riverside promenade in Heilbronn.

From Heilbronn, the route follows the Neckar for about 85 kilometres through gently winding wine country. Beyond Lauffen and Gundelsheim, vineyards and castles line your way before the four hilltop castles of Neckarsteinach come into view. In Heidelberg, your day concludes at the castle and the Old Bridge.

Between the Neckar and the Rhine, the final, leisurely 25 kilometres lead you through the broad plains of the Kurpfalz. In Ladenburg, Roman wall remains and the Carl Benz House recall the region’s long and fascinating history. In Mannheim, your journey comes to an end at the Baroque Palace and the Water Tower.