Woodland Trails to River Bends: The Black Forest to the Moselle

Pull into the Bruchsal Ost services and recharge your vehicle, ready for the journey ahead. Take advantage of the supermarket and facilities while you're there.

Use the underground car park at Karlsplatz and emerge onto this quaint marketplace, which is dominated by the castle above.

One of the most significant Renaissance structures north of the Alps, partly rebuilt after demolition in the 17th and 18th centuries.
You'll have admired the ruins of this imposing castle as you ascended the hill, a stronghold that dominates the Heidelberg skyline. This castle can trace its origins back to the 13th century and beyond, but it was extended and added to throughout the ages.
In addition to enjoying a panoramic view of the old town 80 metres (262.47 feet) below, you can explore the ceremonial hall, living quarters, and audience chamber in the reconstructed section of the castle. There is also an apothecary museum to visit, and the statues of emperors and kings on the Friedrich's Wing facade are also noteworthy.
You should also set aside time for a walk through the romantic palace gardens. Although not as magnificent as during the Renaissance times, the gardens still have beautiful little touches, as well as stunning views across the Neckar valley. 🗓️ Check the opening hours before your visit.

The first permanent exhibition documenting the Holocaust against Sinti and Roma.
Before heading down the hill, pay a visit to the Documentation and Cultural Centre of German Sinti and Roma and discover more about the Nazi genocide relating to these people. The exhibition will enlighten you on the persecution of the Sinti and Roma, from their gradual disenfranchisement to their systematic extermination. There are also regular temporary exhibitions on show that cover the topic.
After visiting the exhibition, return to your car and prepare to take the short drive through the old town, ready for your lunch date. 🗓️ Check the opening hours before your visit.

A Michelin-recommended restaurant serving European cuisine, located in a historic hotel dating back to 1865.
The European Court welcomes you to Die Kurfürstenstube from the end of September through to the beginning of April, and as the temperatures rise, the summer restaurant takes over, opening the terrace for its patrons.
This Michelin-recommended restaurant will dazzle you with its culinary specialities, such as roasted fillet of Pomeranian beef with stewed ragout of ox cheeks and Rouennaise sauce, as well as poached ballotine of Breton sole and Atlantic lobster with crustacean bisque. 🗓️ Check the opening hours and book a table in advance. 🅿️ Car parks are available nearby.

Stop in Schengen, on the corner of three countries – Luxembourg, Germany, and France – and recharge your vehicle. You can also spend time visiting the Borders Shopping Centre while you wait.

A luxurious five-star hotel with a three-star Michelin restaurant on-site, located at the meeting point of Germany, France, and Luxembourg.
End your day's journey at Victor's Residenz-Hotel Schloss Berg. This luxury five-star hotel, surrounded by vineyards, will welcome you in. The hotel boasts a gym and complimentary spa area, while the site also encompasses a Mediterranean villa and a small Renaissance castle.
The hotel also has a sought-after epicurean delight – Victor's Fine Dining by Christian Bau. This three-star Michelin restaurant manages to seamlessly bring the influences of France and Japan together. With a strong focus on seafood, Bau serves dishes like red gamberoni from Portugal with green Thai curry, and Vendée turbot with heart of palm and Asian broccoli. 🗓️ Check the opening hours and book a table for dinner in advance. 🅿️ On-site parking is available.