If winning a mere Silver Medal in the German “Our Village is Beautiful” contest brings us to towns like Sulzbach an der Murr, imagine how grand a Gold Winner must be.
Ah, no time to think about that now, too much to do right here.
Located just forty kilometers northeast of Stuttgart, you’d never know you’re this close to a hustlin’, bustlin’ city. Sulzbach has more of a forest feel to it — and no wonder as its located right in the heart of the Swabian-Franconian Forest, and along the Löwenstein Mountains.
No wonder Sulzbach lies along the Idyllische Straße, also known as the Idyllic Route, a scenic route that’s best explored by hiking or cycling. You’ll most certainly fall in love with the countryside as you pass along forested trails, ponds, and waterfalls. Bike lovers might appreciate the Bitzer Bike Path, while the truly adventurous are sure to love the numerous caves that crave exploration.
While a bit more tame, but still pretty awesome, is the Barfußpark (Barefoot Park). This is 170 meters of experiences totally designed to be done, well, barefoot. And it won’t take too long, 10 to 15 minutes out of your day is well worth the mental/physical health benefits — so long as you do it from May to October (i.e., when it’s open).
Don’t worry, the cooler weather can keep you busy here. There’s a big Carnival Parade (usually in February), and the Nussknackermarkt (Nutcracker Market) is held at the end of November. And some of those fantastic hiking trails give way to a couple of cross-country ski trails.
Inasmuch as Sulzbach an der Murr is an outdoor lovers paradise, it even has a whole bunch of history to it. The Lautereck Castle you see today comes from the 16th century, although the place is technically some three hundred years older.
And long before the castle booming business of the Middle Ages came along, Sulzbach was once the edge of the Roman Empire. A trip to its Heimatmuseum (Local History Museum) is chock full of information about all this, so be sure to stop on by.
Sulzbach might not have won that coveted Gold Medal, but I know this town will always be a winner in my heart.
