Day # 33 Rest day in Heidelberg.

Across the town from the Schloss, looking west.

           And the Lord of Walkers said: ‘Rest your weary legs after 8 full days of pounding the concrete’. Heidelberg is certainly an interesting and attractive town to rest in, even if it is strung out along the River Nechar, just few kilometres up river from the confluence with the Rhine. A pleasantly grey and cool day-- excellent for sightseeing.

            The main industry in Heidelberg, apart from being a key regional city, is the university and I noticed on the board at the entry to the city, that it is twinned with Cambridge, UK. The university buildings are extensive and take up many acres on the north shore. Apparently the university is particularly noted, for it’s medical and engineering faculties and new additions to the facilities are evident on several areas of the campus. The town itself is full of students weaving about on their bikes and there are large numbers of cheap restaurants targeting them with blaring rock/jazz. A source informed me that provided there is space, university education in Germany is offered free to international students—a caveat being of course that they must have fluency in German.

           The east (or up river end) of Heidelberg is known as ‘Alte Stadt’, or old town. This area is dominated by a main street that functions as a pedestrian only thoroughfare. Very pleasant and relaxing to people watch in the abundant street cafes  whilst enjoying a coffee and croissant.

     Over looking the city from high on the south bank of the Nechar is Heidelberg Schloss, or castle. I debated with myself whether or not I should be tough minded and walk up the steep hill, or take the cliff rail car—the rail car won out, but should note that I walked back down to the town. The views from high over the city, river and its bridges from the castle ruins, that are currently receiving extensive restoration work, are superlative…a true Kodak moment!

        Purchased some hard rations for tomorrow’s hike to my next port of call, Speyer, City of church spires), and returned to my hostel accommodation by 3.00pm for quiet R & R, entirely appropriate for a rest day. Don’t you agree?

0 kms. walked today per pedometer.
 Type of overnight lodging: Heidelberg youth hostel
Cost of lodging: 36E.