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Hiking · Baden-Württemberg, Heidelberg

Schlangenweg and Heiligenberg Loop

  • Difficultymoderate
  • DistanceAbout 9 km loop
  • Duration2.5-3 hours
  • ElevationAbout 300 m ascent
  • TransportWalk from the Old Bridge across the Neckar to the Schlangenweg

This loop starts on the Schlangenweg, climbs to the Philosophenweg and continues up the Heiligenberg to the Thingstätte amphitheatre and the ruins of St. Michael's Monastery. The return follows forest paths back down to Neuenheim. Guidebooks list the route at about 9 km, between 2.5 and 3 hours of walking.

This loop starts on the Schlangenweg, climbs to the Philosophenweg and continues up the Heiligenberg to the Thingstätte amphitheatre and the ruins of St. Michael's Monastery. The return follows forest paths back down to Neuenheim. Guidebooks list the route at about 9 km, between 2.5 and 3 hours of walking.

Practical information for Schlangenweg and Heiligenberg Loop · Last updated September 2026
Distance About 9 km loop
Duration 2.5-3 hours
Difficulty moderate
Trailhead Walk from the Old Bridge across the Neckar to the Schlangenweg
Best season March-November
Address Schlangenweg, 69120 Heidelberg

Trail facts

Trail area
Heiligenberg, Heidelberg

What to bring

Sturdy shoes, water, light rain jacket

Location

Schlangenweg, 69120 Heidelberg

49.4272, 8.6936 View on map

Highlights

  • Thingstätte open-air amphitheatre
  • Ruins of St. Michael's Monastery
  • Bismarck column on the Heiligenberg

Tips for visiting

  • Wear shoes with grip; forest paths are muddy after rain.
  • Combine with a break at the Philosophenweg viewpoint.

When to visit

March-November

Accessibility

Steep stairs and forest trails; not step-free.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Heiligenberg loop start?

At the foot of the Schlangenweg on Neuenheimer Landstraße, opposite the Old Bridge.

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Schlangenweg and Heiligenberg Loop

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