Detwang Germany, the perfect escape from Rothenburg’s crowds
Surrounding bustling Rothenburg Germany are idyllic trails and paths that wind their way through the picturesque countryside. One of these paths leads to Detwang Germany, the little village that’s tucked away in the valley below Rothenburg.
I’ve been curious about the village for years so one day I finally decided to make the short trek there. In this article I’ll share with you how to get there and what you’ll find when you arrive! It’s a true hidden gem!
Table of Contents
Why Detwang Germany?
Full disclosure, there isn’t much excitement in the peaceful village of Detwang. Business are few and far between in this little town that is home to around 171 residents (Wikipedia) However, if you’re looking for a quiet escape in an authentic German village then Detwang is your place!
You can take in a slice of the beautiful countryside
The Tauber River meanders here through the valley’s rolling hills and scenic landscapes. It’s a great way to add a little slice of nature to your Rothenburg itinerary.
It’s ridiculously historic!
Detwang is one of the oldest villages in Franconia, dating back to around 968 AD! Surround yourself with history in this 8th century town which was originally named “Datteuuanc”!
It’s free!
Exploring the village is one of the best free things to do when visiting Rothenburg!
It’s a great way to get away from the crowds.
If crowds really cramp your style, I can totally recommend a visit to Detwang. I often find myself in Rothenburg because it’s my very favorite place on planet earth.
I can’t get enough of the town and great medieval feel and atmospheric medieval streets. The trouble is that mass crowds descend upon the town, trampling its charm. I’m always looking for ways to escape the midday crowds in Rothenburg.
During the hour or so we spent exploring the town I’m not sure if we saw a single soul in Detwang!
More ways to escape the midday crowds in Rothenburg:
I have an article that includes ideas on how to escape the crowds in Rothenburg, and another dedicated to nighttime in Rothenburg, a magical time when the day crowds have departed!
They have lots of lodging
I was really surprised by how many hotels and gasthauses there were for a town this size!
Things to do in Detwang
Explore the town
Just wander and take it in! You’re in an authentic historic Franconian village! Growing up in Germany there was such a thrill in never knowing what kind of wonder was around the next corner. I delight in exploring paths, lanes, and back streets. It’s the perfect place for this!
You can take a hot air balloon ride
Float your way across the Tauber Valley and Rothenburg’s red rooftops in a hot air balloon! During the warm weather season tours leave daily from the Tauberwiesen in Detwang. Contact Happy Ballooning for more information.
Visit the historic Church
The star of this Franconian village is the St. Peter and Paul Church (St. Peter und Paul – Evangelisch-Lutherische Kirchengemeinde), a Gothic masterpiece that houses an extraordinary altar that has been attributed to Tilman Riemenschneider. The altar, which depicts the crucifixion of Christ, showcases the craftsmanship of one of Germany’s most celebrated Gothic sculptors. (Wikipedia)
We came to experience Christmas in Rothenburg, a magical time of year, so the church wasn’t open during our visit. Here are some photos so you can decide for yourself if it’s worth touring the church interiors.
come for church services!
If you happen to be visiting the area on a Sunday, why not attend services in this ridiculously historic church? Services usually take place on Sundays at 9 a.m.
Church hours:
The church is open daily during the summer, Monday to Saturday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday after the service from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
During the winter months (November to March), the church is only open on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Always confirm dates and times. You can get the most up to date information on the church’s official website.
Entrance fee:
There is a €1,50 per person entrance fee.
Rothenburg Riemenschneider Altar
This area is home to another famous work by Riemenschneider. You’ll find it at the St. James Church / St. Jacob Church in Rothenburg’s old town center. This grand altar depicts the Last Supper and is said to contain a very important relic, the blood of Christ. The 15th century work is titled the “altar of the holy blood” (Heilig-Blut-Alta.)
Kinderspielplatz Playground
If you brought the kids, this is the perfect place to let them work off some energy. The fenced in playground has various playground equipment to entertain the little ones in your travel party.
Public Restrooms
Öffentliche Toilette am Taubertalradweg: You’ll find these very clean public toilets in the center of town. Check the map in this article.
How to get to Detwang
The Walking Trail From rothenburg
There is a short trail that runs from Burggarten (Castle Garden) in Rothenburg to Detwang. The steeply downward sloping trail leads to the valley below. The trail is paved but may be treacherous in inclement weather, including snow or ice, or wet conditions.
I’m not going to lie, as I walked down the trail into the valley I was really dreading having to walk back up! I made it though, slow and steady is the way to go.
The entire walk is approximately 1.5 km (1-mile) one way. Give yourself enough time for the 20-minute walk plus time to explore, and another 20-minutes to walk back.
hiking poles
The steep incline can be hard on your knees, and getting back up that hill is no joke! If you have hiking poles you might consider bringing them. They would be helpful on the way down, as well as the steep climb back up.
Walking Directions
Start at the Castle Garden. As you exit the Burgtor (castle gate) veer to the right. You’ll see a wooden sign directing you to “Detwang.” Follow Rothenburg’s old medieval wall, past the children’s playground. The trail leads you down the steep incline.
Once you reach the road, if you look to your left, you’ll see a statue located on Barbarossabrücke Bridge. This statue represents Frederick Barbarossa or Frederick I, who became the Holy Roman Emperor in 1155. Frederick’s son Conrad II was Duke of Swabia and Rothenburg.
You can now follow the big yellow direction sign that leads you to Detwang. You’ll follow Kurze Steige road into the village.
Itching for a longer walk?
The Franconian Marienweg runs through the village of Detwang. This 1920 km long hiking trail runs through the Bavarian districts of Lower Franconia, Upper Franconia, and Middle Franconia.
Can you drive to Detwang?
Absolutely! If you don’t enjoy steep walking paths then hustle your way to your car, put the town name into your GPS for this 5-minute short drive from Rothenburg and you’ll be there in no time at all!
Parking:
You’ll find free parking near the bus stop which is located on the map I’ve included in this article.
By Bus
If you don’t have a car (or don’t feel like reparking) and don’t want to walk you can take the bus. Bus #980 stops in Detwang and can be accessed from several places around Rothenburg. You can check schedules at the Deutsche Bahn website, (DB) or in their app. Buses can get you there in as little as 5 minutes.
Map of Detwang
You can use this map to navigate your way around. The photo links to an interactive Google map that includes points of interest in and around town.
Where to Eat, Detwang Restaurant Guide
There are just a couple of restaurants in the tiny town.
Unter den Linden Beer Garden
If you’re walking from the Castle Garden in Rothenburg you’ll pass the Unter den Linden Beer Garden which is located directly on the Tauber River. They are open from the beginning of spring to early October. (Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays – except public holidays) You can check current hours in the link above.
Schwarzes Lamm Gasthaus Restaurant
You’ll find this rustic country inn right in the middle of town. Experience Franconian cuisine in the dining room which dates to 1798. Monday to Sunday 12:00 – 21:00
Lodging and Where to Stay
If you love quiet, then you might consider an overnight stay. It’s a quiet escape with easy access to one of Germany’s best medieval towns!
hotels
There are 3 options in town:
- Gasthaus Tauberstube (Pension) Bed and Breakfast
- Luise Oberberger, you can get information about booking a room at this adorable little inn by searching for their phone number on Google.
- Schwarzes Lamm Gasthaus
Detwang Camping (Detwang Campingplatz)
You have your choice of two campgrounds:
- Camping Tauberromantik: Spaces for camping cars, caravans and tents, warm showers, free Wifi. They also offer furnished bedroom apartments. Reservation recommended.
- Camping Tauber-Idyll: Tents and spots for smaller camper vans and motor homes. Washing machine and dryer, showers and toilets.
Top Rothenburg choices
A bit too quiet for your liking? Here are some special stays up the hill in Rotheburg o.d. T.
- Gotisches Haus Hotel: Located in the historic center. Emperors and crown princes stayed in this 700-year-old building! You can check prices here on Booking.com. Want more information? You’ll find it in my Gotisches Haus article.
- Altfrankische Weinstube: This cozy 650-year-old-building is tucked away from the crowds and looks like it was built for gnomes! Check prices here on Booking.com.
- Burghotel: Also tucked back away from the crowds and has a great old world atmosphere! This 12th century building offers spa services and views overlooking the Tauber Valley. Check prices now on Booking.com.
Toppler Castle (Topplerschlösschen)
Another 25-minute walk to the south (1.8 km) is the late medieval residential Toppler Castle tower. This tower was built in 1388 as a country estate.
The moated house is indeed very small. However, the interior of this well-preserved building is furnished with pieces from the 16th to 19th centuries and if you like things that are old and ancient, worth a visit.
Conclusion
I hope you find this guide helpful to plan your time in this authentic little slice of Franconian heritage. It’s just such a great leisurely getaway for an hour or so but you may feel like staying longer! Are you ready to explore Rothenburg? Here are my best articles to help plan your time there:
