The Neckarsteig Trail - hiking along the idyllic river

The Neckarsteig Trail retraces the steps of Mark Twain, who explored the Neckar on foot and on his raft. We see the vineyards along the river through the eyes of the American writer. Mark Twain used to mock the regional wine : "It is really popular. You can tell German wine from vinegar by the label." Just like Twain, we have the choice of switching between a hike and a river cruise as and when we like. There are plenty of points along the river where we can board a vessel. We take the towpaths down by the river on the Neckarsteig Trail. Every so often, we have to climb the steep slopes along the 128 kilometre route. But once we reach the top, we can admire stunning views of the bends and loops of the Neckar river. The landscape lives up to its reputation for "soft and peaceful beauty" (as Mark Twain put it).