Neckar: Donaueschingen - Heidelberg

It’s worth arriving in Donaueschingen early, as even the starting point of your cycling tour has plenty to offer. Visit the famous source of the Danube in the Fürstlich Fürstenbergischer Schlosspark and discover the magnificent residential palace of the Princes of Fürstenberg. Also worth seeing are the historic old town with its Art Nouveau buildings and St. Johann Church with its striking onion domes. Afterward, you can relax in one of the cozy cafés or restaurants and get in the mood for your upcoming cycling tour along the Neckar.

On the expansive Baar Plateau, you’ll cycle through a varied landscape between the Black Forest and the Swabian Alb. In Schwenningen, you’ll encounter the young Neckar River, which still winds its way through the countryside as a narrow stream here. You’ll then follow its course all the way to Rottweil, the oldest city in Baden-Württemberg. There, you’ll find an exceptionally well-preserved medieval city center, historic townhouses, and a truly unique cityscape rich in history and atmosphere.

Heading north, you’ll follow the Neckar River, which in this section has carved deeply into the landscape and steadily widens. Quiet towns and natural riverbanks line your route. Passing through Oberndorf - known for its Swabian-Alemannic Carnival - you’ll eventually reach Sulz am Neckar. You’ll spend the night in Sulz or Glatt.

Horb is worth a first stop to visit the collegiate church and the striking Schurkenturm. Afterward, you’ll cycle on to Rottenburg, whose cityscape - following several fires - is now predominantly Baroque in style. Your destination for the day is Tübingen, with its charming old town and Hohentübingen Castle, which offers a beautiful view of the city.

You’ll leave the bustling city behind and soon find yourself cycling through quieter countryside dotted with several swimming lakes that invite you to take a refreshing break on warm days. You’ll then follow the Neckar downstream through the valley to Plochingen, where the colorful Hundertwasser Tower is a real eye-catcher. The route continues to Esslingen, whose historic old town survived World War II largely unscathed. Half-timbered houses, narrow alleys, and medieval buildings continue to give the city a particularly authentic and charming atmosphere.

First, you’ll arrive in Stuttgart, the vibrant capital of Baden-Württemberg. Take the opportunity to take a leisurely break and explore some of the city’s most famous sights - such as the impressive Mercedes-Benz Museum, the Old Palace, or the expansive Schlossplatz in the city center. You’ll then continue your bike tour, following the Neckar River toward Ludwigsburg. There, the magnificent Residenzschloss awaits you - one of Germany’s most significant Baroque complexes - with its expansive gardens and historic interiors.

You’ll return to the Neckar River and follow its sweeping curves through a charming wine-growing region all the way to Lauffen. It’s worth taking a leisurely break here - perhaps with a glass of the famous Lauffen “Katzenbeißer.” You’ll then continue cycling toward Heilbronn, a major center of winegrowing and wine trade in Württemberg. Following the romantic Burgenstraße, this stage takes you through a varied cultural landscape all the way to Heilbronn or the nearby town of Neckarsulm.

In Neckarsulm, we recommend a visit to the NSU Museum, which features an extensive collection of historic bicycles, motorcycles, and automobiles. Your route then takes you through the Neckar Valley, past numerous castles and palaces, including Hornberg Castle, which is closely associated with the knight Götz von Berlichingen. Bad Wimpfen is particularly worth seeing, with its well-preserved old town, striking towers, bay windows, and half-timbered houses. The route continues through the charming river landscape to Mosbach; depending on where you’ve booked your overnight stay, the stage ends here, or you can cycle on to the historic Staufer town of Eberbach.

The Neckar now winds its way in wide curves through the densely forested landscape of the Odenwald, forming the border between Hesse and Baden-Württemberg in some sections. Along the way, you’ll pass wooded slopes, small villages, and, time and again, beautiful views of the river valley. Finally, you’ll reach Heidelberg, one of Germany’s most famous university cities. High above the Old Town stands the famous castle ruin, one of the city’s most significant landmarks. From there, you’ll enjoy a magnificent view over the rooftops of Heidelberg, the Neckar River, and the surrounding hills.

After breakfast, it’s unfortunately time to say goodbye to the River of Poets. If you’d like to explore Heidelberg in more detail, we’d be happy to book an extension for you.