Heppenheim was the last destination on our Lakes and Lederhosen 2019 road trip before we headed back to the UK.

Marktplatz in Heppenheim

I must admit prior to arriving in Heppenheim, I had some qualms of what to expect. Not that I was unduly worried, it’s just that we had visited some incredible Bavarian towns. And I wondered whether Heppenheim in the Hesse region of Germany was going to give them a run for their money.

Touchy-feely map of Heppenheim

Well, those doubts were soon diminished as we stepped into Heppenheim’s Marktplatz and it felt like we had gatecrashed a movie set. It was beautiful.

Heppenheim in southern Hesse is also known for its wine. Rows of manicured vineyards standing side by side across the hillside terraces is always a pleasant sight to see.

Lush hillsides of Heppenheim

The variety of wine that is mainly harvested in this region is Riesling.

Due to the favourable soil conditions and its ideal climate, the dry Riesling is of high quality. I can imagine very sought after.

Vineyards nestled in the foothills of Starkenburg, a fortified castle

The old town in Heppenheim is incredibly pretty, you would completely miss it if you didn’t stop and take the short meander up the hill to the charming square.

Through the arch to the Altstadt

Winding streets of Heppenhein

Lanes leading to Marktplatz

All through the tiny lanes are colourful dwellings so immaculately kept.

Little boutiques, cafes and ice cream parlours were tempting you in.

Even though the Altstadt attracts visitors, it still feels like it is in the hands of its residents.

Well, if you’re a Formula 1 fan, then you may be curious, and that is Sebastian Vettel was born in Heppenheim.

The Marktplatz is breath-taking, with its lovely central Marienbrunnen (fountain), where locals gather for a chat. Surrounded on all side by historical half-timbered buildings.

Heppenheim Marktplatz

It’s so pleasing to see the care and pride that is taken here in Heppenheim. The Rathaus (town hall) plays a central role; however, there are so many other beautiful buildings here too.

Heppenheim Rathaus

The Goldener Engel hotel in Marktplatz

Discover more of Germany on a road trip like us, if your unable to bring your own car or are flying into this lovely country give SIXT car hire a go. They cover all budgets and allow you to pick up and drop off at different destinations.

Heppenheim to Frankfurt is only around 38 miles (60km).

Although you won’t want to leave the Marktplatz, the intriguing little lanes that lead off of it are so inviting. Quaint rose line lanes with even more half-timbered homes for you to admire.

Peaceful lanes

Half-timbered homes in Heppenheim

Cycling into Marktplatz

Empty streets around Altstadt

The colourful streets were so peaceful, you almost felt like you had them to yourself, and you were on your own voyage of discovery.

If you’d like to discover more of Germany, take a peek at some of our other posts. Just a short hop into Bavaria we’ve visited Regensburg, Augsburg and Dinkelsbühl and at Christmas time, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Nuremberg and Munich

Strolling a little further up through Heppenheim and you’ll arrive at St. Peter’s church. Standing pride of place at the top of the town.

St Peter’s church Heppenheim

“Cathedral of the Bergstraße” in Heppenheim

St Peter’s church is also known as the "Cathedral of the Bergstraße". The church was built in neo-gothic style was erected between 1900 and 1904.

Start creating your own German adventure and discover the quaint vineyard town of Heppenheim for yourself. You can fly into Germany’s delightful city of Frankfurt with easyJet & British Airways.

Or alternatively, if your venturing from the UK, jump on Le Shuttle and tour south under your own

While wandering around Heppenheim keep a lookout for the quirky streetlamps. Dotted all through the old town, these lamps have some interesting if not quite strange depictions on them.

Unusual streetlamps through Heppenheim

Every lamp tells a story

Stay at the Halber Mond, just a short stroll, and you’re in the colourful Altstadt.

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