Another Castle!!

The gate to Heidelberg
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Left on the train to Heidelberg - one of the loveliest places in Germany.  The train ride up the Neckar Valley is so picturesque even in Winter.  First stop was the funicula to get up to the schlöss.  It is an amazing castle - unfotunately half of it in ruins but it still has some incredible features.  (I know lots of you folks out there have been there so won't bore you with too many details).  Back down to the old city to wander around the shops and do a little bit of shopping (along with the usual cafe stops to keep us warm).  First church was the Heilig Geist Kirche (Gothic Protestant) and then the Jesuit (Baroque) which has to be the most beautiful church/cathedral that I've seen over here yet - so light, airy and open with the most amazing chandeliers.  It is one church that's well worth seeing next time you're in Heidelberg!  Next stop was the old Karl-Theodor Bridge from where you get some great views of the city and the surrounding hill areas.  Back into town for a last coffee and then for the train back to Bad Rappenau.  Had a bit of a mix up with trains - because Kay and I were talking so much and Tony had his iPod on, we went a bit further than what we should have and were on the wrong line, so had to get off and get Dieter to come and rescue us.  Made it home in the end and Dieter had a fabulous salmon dinner waiting for us.