“Imagine sipping whey high above Heidelberg” you say. That’s the Molkenkur’s story. This place halfway up the Königstuhl wasn’t always a hotel and restaurant.
The Molkenkur is more than just a scenic stop on the funicular. It marks a pivotal point in Heidelberg’s history. It’s believed to be the site of Heidelberg’s very first castle. Sadly that original castle was destroyed by lightning in 1537. A long time ago.
Before the current hotel stood there the original castle stood. Then after the castle’s destruction a fort was built during the Thirty Years’ War. That too was demolished in 1693. Today only a few remnants remain. You can still see parts of the old moat and some walls near the Molkenkur.
Albrecht Wagner a porcelain painter changed things in 1851. He bought the land. He built a “molkenanstalt” a whey cure facility. The name Molkenkur refers to a special fast using whey. People drank whey instead of solid food. This was a popular health treatment back then. The Molkenkur became a popular destination even before the funicular opened in 1890.
The funicular railway dramatically increased access to the Molkenkur. It became a vital link between Heidelberg’s old town the castle and the Königstuhl. It’s the change-over point between the lower and upper funicular lines. This little station is a marvel of engineering. The oldest electrically powered funicular railway in Germany. It’s listed as a historical monument.
The Molkenkur today still offers stunning views. The restaurant serves food and drinks. You can enjoy the breathtaking panorama of the valley. You can walk to the castle from here. Many paths lead there including the Friesenweg. This is a perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of Heidelberg.
So stand here a while. Absorb the history. Enjoy the view. Let the story of the Molkenkur linger in your mind. From ancient castle ruins to a modern hotel. This place has truly seen it all.