Discover Weinheim and Endingen

One of the Small Town Gems mentioned above is Weinheim, the picturesque town of two castles. Situated directly on the Badische Bergstraße, Weinheim is the perfect destination for a varied city break. Mediterranean flair can be found throughout the town, but it is particularly evident in the market square, with its many inviting cafés and restaurants. The square is also home to an array of distinctive buildings, including the Old Town Hall, the historic Löwenapotheke pharmacy and the Catholic Church of St Laurentius.

Close to the market square, you will find the Gerberbachviertel, Weinheim’s historic Tanners’ Quarter. It began to develop as the centre of the tanners’ guild in the 16th century, helping to establish Weinheim as an important centre of trade. Many former tanners’ houses and workshops can still be found here today, along with beautiful winding lanes, secluded little courtyards and picturesque half-timbered houses.

The beautifully landscaped castle park provides a magnificent backdrop to Weinheim Palace and is ideal for a stroll or picnic. Alongside expansive lawns that regularly host events and exotic plants such as towering giant sequoias, the park also features a large pond – the perfect spot to pause and unwind. Directly adjoining the castle park is the Exotenwald, a woodland known for its rare and exotic trees and the ideal place for a short break in nature. Within minutes, you will find yourself surrounded by California incense cedars, giant sequoias and many other rare plant species. Three circular walking trails, ranging from 2.4 to 4.4 kilometres, invite you to explore this green paradise.

The tranquil town of Endingen is another of the selected Small Town Gems and has also been designated a Weinsüden Wine Town. It is located in the Kaiserstuhl, one of Germany’s sunniest regions. The almost Mediterranean climate and fertile soil formed from ancient volcanic rock provide ideal conditions for the vineyards that shape the landscape around Endingen. It is hardly surprising, then, that so many winemakers practise their craft here and invite visitors to sample their excellent wines.

No trip to Endingen would be complete without visiting one of its many wineries. After a tour of the winery’s own wine cellar, you can take an exciting Unimog ride through the vineyards and enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding countryside.

There is also plenty to discover in the centre of Endingen. More than 80 mostly owner-operated shops line Hauptstraße, the town’s main shopping street, offering regional delicacies and unique handmade products. The old town gate, the many colourful half-timbered houses and the spacious market square overlooking the Baroque St Peter’s Parish Church create a beautiful townscape.

At the Käserei-Museum, a museum devoted to traditional cheesemaking, you can learn all about different varieties of cheese and journey back through the history of the craft. With its many exhibits, welcoming atmosphere and the opportunity to enjoy a cup of coffee, the museum offers a memorable experience.