After our fairy-tale dinner at Schloss Biebrich our boat cruised through the night and we awoke the next morning at our next dairy-tale destination: Heidelberg and its fabled castle.
We were blessed again with beautiful weather, which really does make a difference. We heard that the cruises in the past month had been especially cold and rainy, which made us appreciate our blue sky all the more.
I was really looking forward to seeing Heidelberg Castle and it did not disappoint, although we learned that the 17th century depredations of Louis XIV had left the castle looking considerably worse for the wear.
I was feeling a bit worse for the wear that day too, as i was challenged by the steep paths and steps around the castle. Ancient castle walkways were not built with the less able-bodied in mind.
Tauck is very good about explaining the lay of the land both on their advance itineraries and as the tour progresses. Most days, a “more leisurely paced walk” was offered to those who might need a bit of extra time. There is no accommodation for wheelchairs or walkers on the tour but there were a few people using canes who were still able to enjoy the experience. And of course if the going gets too rough, one can always opt out of a too-rigorous walking tour.
I forged ahead that day, however, bad back and all, since I felt a pressing need to see what was billed as the world’s largest wine barrel: the Heidelberg Tun.
Built in 1751, it has the capacity of 221,726 liters! That’s a lot of Riesling!
After our castle tour, we were dropped off down the hill in town where we had a lovely lunch at the Hotel Ritter. Beer and bratwurst, of course.
Then we had free time to walk the streets of Heidelberg and stand at the Old Bridge looking out over the Neckar River.
References to Heidelberg have popped up often in my reading over the years, and it really was a thrill to finally set foot in this charming town.
Back on our boat, the mood was festive and we were highly entertained after dinner by the very talented (and slightly zany) Sandy Quartet. I must confess that yes, by the end of the evening, there was a conga line. Old people have to have fun, too, you know 🙂
Polloplayer 
I was doing fine until I got to the part with the Sandy Quartet, and then I realized these Tauck tours are wonderful, in fact spectacular. But it helps to be, ahem, of a certain age group. Heidelberg was very enjoyable and the spaciousness of the grounds and buildings helps, as you never feel like you are trapped in an old musty castle. And yes, the French did make sure there was plenty of ventilation. Just another great experience on the Rhine!