As the name suggests, the place is an old ruin, dating back to the 12th century, which gives the…read moreplace a unique atmosphere. It's possible to climb up the stairs of the old tower to an unrivalled view that - weather permitting - reaches from Weinheim's old town centre to the hills of the Pfälzer Wald. A long, long time ago I went there regularly with my dad - no wonder the place is filled with nostalgia for me. However, times have changed, and in case of the Windeck, definitely for the better. Since Rolf Pflästerer has taken over (now a few good years) it's more than a great place to end a Sunday stroll or a longer hike through the forests of the Odenwald by sitting in the shades of some large chestnut trees and sipping on a cool beer. The outside area is a beergarden that can rival the best. The cellar is a restaurant with a delicious, occasionally daring, menu. A tented area is perfect for weddings and other parties. It takes about 20 minutes to to take the direct yet rather steep path from the Gerberbachviertel up to the old ruin. A slightly longer and gentler way starts at the bottom of the crossing between "Grundelbachstraße" and "Dürrestraße". Or alternatively, you can take the car up the Wachenberg ("Am Schloßberg") and turn right into "Neuer Burgweg" once you passed the built-up area. Behind the ruin lies an adequately sized parking area.

Staying in Hemsbach for a few days exploring our family heritage in the region, we discovered this…read moreincredible hidden gem for an authentic German meal. The setting is perfect, old world including the beautiful outdoor option. Although we had not made a reservation and don't speak German, the staff was accommodating and seated us in the perfect setting. With a bit of help from Google Translate we ordered a variety of exquisitely prepared steak and pork dishes. Visiting from the US this was our favorite meal in 10 days in Europe and very reasonably priced (just make sure to have Euros - no credit card).