BEYOND TRACK LIMITS
THE UPHILL CLIMB...
For those keen to take in the views but no so keen on a steep march uphill, consider the Heidelberger Bergbahnen. It's a funicular railway that starts in the Old Town and stops at the Schloss before making its way up the hill to Molkenkur, where you change onto one of Germany's oldest funicular railways to complete the ascent to the summit.
THE BEACH BAR...
Heidelberg and Mannheim, both located along the banks of the Neckar, have seen a number of enterprising individuals set up riverside beach bars, and the town now has a mini industry of them. The bars themselves are much of a muchness -- the best one will be wherever you can find a seat that night. Some serve food.
THE SCENIC ROUTE...
A university town, it should come as not surprise that Heidelberg has a long academic history. Follow in the footsteps of thinkers past on the Philosophenweg, or Philosopher's Walk, a steep walk up the hills behind Heidelberg and providing stunning views of the town and surrounds.
Around Hockenheim
GERMAN GRAND PRIX
A traditional race that used to see hordes of campers in its heyday, Hockenheim is great for beer und wurst, and not so great for much else. Luckily, the charming university town of Heidelberg is within easy reach, and makes for an excellent base.