Hiking in the Cities of Southwest Germany

One of Europe’s greenest states, SouthWest Germany is known for hiking trails that criss-cross forests, mountains and valleys. Then there is what locals call “urban hiking” – a great way to explore the region’s charming, historic towns and cities. There is a route for any and every fitness level. Wear layers, in case the weather changes. And if it does, you are never far from a welcoming café or tavern. So, put on your comfy shoes and be ready to snap some photos. Expect the unexpected as you discover the secret corners of the federal state of Baden-Württemberg.

SouthWest Germany’s third-largest city is Mannheim, and right in its heart is Maulbeerinsel (Mulberry Island). Wedged between the Neckar River and the canal, it is named for the mulberry trees, which were planted back in the 18th century, on the orders of Elector Karl-Ludwig. See it on a relaxing, 7-km / 4-mile walk that starts at the TV tower. From here, follow the bank of the river to the lock and then cross to the island. Although close to the city centre, this is an unspoiled, natural landscape, which provides a habitat for kingfishers, storks and pheasants.

Home to Germany's oldest university, a castle ruin and an old town, Heidelberg is a must-see. For a great view of all this, cross over to the north side of the Neckar River, where the 440m (1,450ft) Heiligenberg Hill offers a variety of trails. The Keltenweg, a circular walk, has a Celtic theme. It passes a defensive wall, monastery ruins and a medieval well. The Philosophenweg (Philosopher's Path), made famous by poets and thinkers, winds along the southern slope of Heiligenberg Hill. It passes gardens planted with exotic species such as Japanese loquat, Arizona cypress, Spanish broom and Portuguese laurel. A 4-km / 2.5-mile path links the Philosophenweg, the steep Schlangenweg alley, the Old Bridge and the main street of Heidelberg's old town.

Overlooking Heilbronn, the wine-growing capital of Württemberg, the Wein Panorama Weg (Wine Panorama Path) invites you to hike and sip your way through the vineyards. It runs from the town's historic 300-year-old wooden wine press to Wartberg Hill. Along its 6-km / 4-miles, there are 24 stations that form a sort of open-air museum, with information on winegrowing, as well as local culture and nature. Stop at the new wine bar on Wartberg Hill to relax, enjoy glorious vistas and savour wines produced in the surrounding vineyards. Best of all, the path is accessible to all, from families with strollers to visitors in wheelchairs.

The jewellery-making city of Pforzheim takes urban ecological tours seriously, with eight circular walks to choose from. One of the best leads from the Rodgebiet area in south-west Pforzheim to the village of Dillweissstein, known for its lime trees. Walkers will learn about the trees that line the streets, providing shade and clean air. Locals love their gardens, which provide food and shelter for wildlife even in the most densely populated areas. Then there is the Hinteren Tal, a wetland with rare animals and plants. Walk any of the trails with a guide or on your own.

'Glamorous' and 'sophisticated' are the words usually associated with the famous spa town of Baden-Baden. But as well as spas and casino, art galleries and parks, the great outdoors is on its doorstep. The Black Forest National Park, created in 2014, is a wilderness of around 40 square miles. But Mother Nature is even closer. Just put on your hiking boots and follow the Panoramaweg (Panorama Trail). Start at the Kurhaus (casino) and follow Germany's 'Trail of the Year' for 2020. This will take you through the old streets and up to the rocky outcrop of Battert Rock, popular with rock climbers. Here, Baden-Baden's very own 'Table Mountain' offers a whole new perspective on the city and far beyond.

The capital of Baden-Württemberg is Stuttgart. One of Germany's greenest cities, it is surrounded by hills, forests, orchards and vineyards. In fact, a quarter of the city is green. No wonder it is a great place for urban hiking. Unique are the 'Stäffele', the 400 or more steep stone stairs that lead up and down the hillsides. Join a guided tour of the Stäffele and be prepared for a workout. Enjoy the view over the vineyards and the city - you have earned it!

The twin towns of Ulm and Neu-Ulm face each other across the Danube. The locals joke that there are two important buildings: one vertical, the other horizontal. The former is Ulm Minster, with the tallest spire in the world. The latter is the 19th century fortification system, one of the largest in Europe. Discover more by walking the Fortifications Route. The 13km / 8-mile circular path runs along both sides of the river. Along the ramparts, 32 information panels explain the history behind the massive watchtowers. There are views across the Danube and, on a clear day, as far as the Alps. For orientation, start at the information office at Wilhelmsburg Fortress in Neu-Ulm.

If a leisurely stroll sounds more appealing than a hike, then Constance, the largest city on Lake Constance, is the place for you. The flat, easy 8-km / 5-mile Uferweg (shore path) starts at Imperia, the iconic statue at the entrance to the harbour. From here it heads through the city park to Horn Beach, known to locals as 'Hörnle'. Although the path is busy during the high season (May to September), it is quiet the rest of the year. In autumn and winter, the shimmering lake and distant mountains create a magical scene.