Stuttgart District
Landkreis EsslingenEsslingen am NeckarSchelztor
Stuttgart District
Landkreis EsslingenEsslingen am NeckarSchelztor
Highlight • Monument
Schelztor
Hiking
4.6
(36)
The Schelztor is a historic gate tower located in the charming city of Esslingen am Neckar, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. Standing at an elevation of 287 meters, this 13th-century monument was once a crucial part of Esslingen's robust medieval fortifications, guarding the eastern entrance to the old town. Today, it serves as a unique blend of ancient history and modern life, featuring a distinctive contemporary sculpture and even housing an ice cream parlor.
Visitors are particularly drawn to the Schelztor for its…
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November 30, 2025
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October 19, 2025
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Schelztor
4.7
(37)
210
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(26)
129
hikers
15.7km
04:39
460m
460m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(11)
40
hikers
24.1km
07:17
770m
770m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 290 m
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Tuesday 5 May
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of walking routes can I find directly around the Schelztor?
The Schelztor is an excellent starting point for leisurely strolls along the picturesque Rossneckar Canal. You'll find easy, flat paths perfect for a relaxed walk, often leading through the historic city center of Esslingen with its charming half-timbered houses. These routes are generally short, making them ideal for a quick exploration of the immediate surroundings.
Is the area around Schelztor suitable for families with young children?
Yes, the area around the Schelztor is very family-friendly. The paths along the Rossneckar Canal are flat and easy to navigate, suitable for strollers. The presence of an ice cream parlor within the tower itself adds a delightful treat for children, making it a pleasant stop during a family outing in Esslingen.
Are dogs allowed in the Schelztor area or on nearby walks?
Dogs are generally welcome in the public areas around the Schelztor and on the walking paths along the Rossneckar Canal and through Esslingen's historic center. As a courtesy to others and to comply with local regulations, please ensure dogs are kept on a leash and any waste is promptly cleaned up.
Where is the best place to park when visiting the Schelztor?
While the intro mentions parking options, specific recommendations are helpful. Parking can be found in various public parking garages or designated street parking areas within a short walking distance of the Schelztor in Esslingen am Neckar. It's advisable to check local signage for fees and time limits. Arriving earlier in the day, especially on weekends, can help secure a spot more easily.
What public transport options are available to reach the Schelztor?
The Schelztor is well-integrated into Esslingen's public transport network. You can reach it easily via local buses that stop near the city center. Esslingen am Neckar also has a train station, making it accessible by regional trains, after which the Schelztor is typically a short walk away through the historic town.
What is the terrain like around the Schelztor, and is it accessible for everyone?
The immediate area around the Schelztor and along the Rossneckar Canal is predominantly flat and paved, making it generally accessible. The historic city center of Esslingen, while charming, may have some cobblestone sections. The monument itself is a gate tower, so internal access might be limited, but the exterior and surrounding paths are easy to navigate.
What unique landmarks or features should I look out for near the Schelztor?
Beyond the 13th-century gate tower itself and its striking modern sculpture by Hubert von der Goltz, you'll find the picturesque Rossneckar Canal right next to it, perfect for a scenic stroll. The Schelztor also marks an entrance to Esslingen's beautifully preserved historic old town, filled with half-timbered houses and other medieval architecture.
Are there any cafes or restaurants directly near the Schelztor?
Yes, the Schelztor itself houses an ice cream parlor, offering a delightful treat right at the monument. Additionally, being located at the edge of Esslingen's historic city center, there are numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs within a very short walking distance, providing plenty of options for refreshments and meals.
Is the Schelztor area suitable for a winter visit or walk?
Absolutely. While warmer months are ideal for enjoying ice cream, the Schelztor and Esslingen's historic center are charming in winter. The medieval architecture takes on a different atmosphere, and if you visit during the Christmas season, Esslingen is famous for its medieval Christmas market, which transforms the town into a festive wonderland.
How long should I plan for a visit to the Schelztor and its immediate surroundings?
A focused visit to the Schelztor itself, including admiring its architecture and perhaps enjoying an ice cream, might take 15-30 minutes. However, to fully appreciate its historical context and explore the immediate area, including a walk along the Rossneckar Canal and into the nearby historic center of Esslingen, you could easily spend 1 to 2 hours.