The enchanting gardens of Schloss Schwetzingen, the grand baroque-style summer residence of Prince-Elector Carl Theodor (1724–99), are wonderful for a family outing or a romantic stroll, especially on a sunny day.
The only way to see the furnished Schloss interior is on a tour.
Download the free map-brochure Schwetzingen Castle Garden or buy it at the ticket desk for €1.50. Schloss Schwetzingen is 10km west of Heidelberg and 8km south of Mannheim (served by buses), just east of the A6.
Of Versaillian proportions and inspiration, Schloss Schwetzingen's gardens are a beguiling mix of exquisite French formality and meandering, English-style landscaping. Scattered around the gardens are burbling fountains and ‘follies’, architectural flights of fancy. Among them is an ersatz Moschee (mosque), an extraordinary complex in pink, decorated with Turkish crescents, that mixes 18th-century German baroque with ‘exotic’ styling inspired by Constantinople. As you wander, keep an eye out for strutting peacocks.
There are a couple of cafes on-site.
