On Saturday a.m. Kathy wanted me to take some time in Heidelberg, so I decided to take a walk on Philosophen Weg -- Philosopher's Walk. It winds along the bluff on the north side of the Neckar River, amidst vineyards and orchards. It dates from ... and has quite a good history, since the University of Heidelberg is the oldest in Germany.
The climb was steep and it was hot! Once on top, however, the view overlooking the city was wonderful. One posted here and more in the photo album.
Then I went down to the old bridge... nearly straight down as you'll see in the photos. The old bridge is impressive, and there were a couple guys playing music (for coins) on the bridge. Such ambiance! The "downtown" of old town is of course full of tourists... I couldn't believe the increase in numbers since Kathy & I went down there on June 24. July-August is Europe's "high" season and lots of tourists. I came out of the Holy Ghost Church and within 50 feet there were three tour groups with guides speaking in three languages!
Then I headed toward the castle, but when I saw the sign that said "Schloss - 10 minuten" pointing straight up the hill, I opted to do that another day. The legs were already feeling a bit weary. So a walk along Hauptstrasse with it's delightful stores, restaurants, and best of all cafe/bakeries was next. Stopped for an "eis Kafe mit shokolade und vanilla" (chocolate and vanilla ice cream in coffee) -- yum! But not as enjoyable as earlier because K was languishing in her "hospital B&B".
Ryan is jealous of the ice cream.
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