Weinheim between Exotic Forest, Castle and Waidsee Lake

Weinheim combines unusual tree species, medieval castle walls, a historic quarter and water sports on Waidsee Lake. There are also cultural discoveries and recurring festivals. Which side of the city interests you most may also shape your choice of starting point for your stay.

Forest trails and unusual tree species

The approximately 60-hectare Exotic Forest includes giant sequoias, Chilean monkey-puzzle trees, Japanese and North American magnolias, and California incense cedars. The different groups of trees give the forest its distinctive character. Three signposted circular trails pass through it; if you would prefer a guided visit with expert commentary, you can join a public tour. From March to November, one is held once a month. Check the dates before you travel.

The Kneipp facility can also be included in your orientation: it is about a 15-minute walk from the castle park. The Exotic Forest Circular Trail and the Large Circular Trail pass by it. The walking time and route information offer different points of reference when planning your time outdoors.

Castle, old town and local history

The ruins of Windeck Castle were built after 1100 as a fortified castle to protect Lorsch Abbey. In fine weather, the view from there stretches across Weinheim and the Rhine plain to the Palatinate. The history of the building and the view offer different highlights: the ruins tell of their former defensive role, while, in suitable weather, the view opens out across the landscape.

The Gerberbach Quarter is characterised by old tanners’ houses and workshops, winding lanes, small courtyards and notable half-timbered houses. Wachenburg Castle has a different story: it was built between 1907 and 1928 as a memorial and meeting place for the Weinheimer Senioren-Convent and its active student corps. Together with the castle ruins, it represents a different historical aspect of Weinheim; the two buildings do not date from the same period or serve the same purpose.

The Museum of the City of Weinheim presents a permanent exhibition across approximately 1,000 square metres and regularly hosts special exhibitions. Its collection preserves objects relating to the history of the city and region. For a different perspective on Weinheim, an audio guide featuring Ingrid Noll takes visitors around the city at 13 stops and presents it from her point of view. If you are interested in a special exhibition, it is worth checking the current programme in advance.

Waidsee Lake, festivals and excursions

Water sports at Waidsee Lake’s lido include stand-up paddleboarding, surfing and canoeing; diving is also possible there. The lido also has a children’s playground with a zip line and a designated non-swimmer area. This means a range of activities is available alongside a separate area for non-swimmers. Opening times and access rules may vary by season; check these details before your visit.

The events calendar has its own highlights, too. The Weinheim Summer Day Parade takes place every year in March on Laetare Sunday and involves around 3,000 participants. The Old Town Kerwe festival is celebrated in the Gerberbach Quarter on the second weekend in August. If you would like a festival to shape your stay, it is a good idea to check the dates for the relevant year.

A nearby excursion destination, the wild and romantic Mühlental valley with its six mills, lies between Weinheim and Birkenau. It adds a natural landscape to the urban impressions, without requiring a specific circular route.

Weinheim in the Rhein-Neckar district

Across the wider Rhein-Neckar district travel destination, cultural contrasts extend beyond Weinheim. The Electoral Palatinate’s Schwetzingen Palace has a Rococo theatre and a park; in Ladenburg, large parts of the townscape in the historic centre remain medieval in character, with some Roman influences.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Laudenbach, Heddesheim, Wiesenbach, Schönau, Hemsbach, Walldorf, Gaiberg, Wilhelmsfeld.

Back to the wider travel overview: Rhein-Neckar district.