Day 6 – Heidelberg (Castle and mountain hike) September 25



We were docked in Ludwigshafen, Germany when we woke up this morning. We departed on motorcoach to Heidelburg.  I signed up for the hiking tour, so my group had a brief tour of city and then we hopped on the funicular (cog railway) to go to the top of Mount Konigstuhl. 


view from half way up the moutain

Funicular

We saw three small deer

final stretch of funicular to the top


There is a hotel at top with a commanding view of the Neckar River and town of Heidelberg. 




We hiked through the forest on a steep grade.  The area reminded me so much of the Pacific Northwest.  It was misty and rainy which added to the feel.  Many of the plants were similar to what we have at home.  There were large stone markers that were dated 1907 that showed which way to go on the many trails. 







At one point there was steep stone walk way leading up to the woods. 



About halfway down we came to the Heidelberg Castle.  Half of it was falling apart, but the other part looked fine.  It once had 1000 inhabitants.  Everything is red sandstone.  The way down was a steep cobblestone walkway. 




Sundial


View of Neckar River from the castle






We had to be back on the bus, so didn’t have any time to look around before leaving.  Stopped into a bakery for a quick pastry on the run.

narrow cobblestone streets common in these older towns

This sign on  the side of the church told that Taylor Swift had recently sang at a service at this church.  They said the church was packed that day.  They also said that Adele was going to sign there soon. 




Back on the ship and continuing down the river.


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