About Us
As the sun rises over the rolling hills I call home, a place of enchanting beauty and captivating history, I begin another day as a guide and am ready to share the secrets and stories of this remarkable region with you. With every step I feel the pulse of the country beneath my feet, a rhythm that reflects the richly woven tapestry of cultures and landscapes that make up this magical corner of Germany.
As I lead my group through Heidelberg's narrow, cobblestone streets, the scent of old sandstone, fresh flowers and simmering mash hangs in the air and mixes with whispers of legends from centuries past. The mighty Heidelberg Castle rises above us, a magnificent testimony to the splendor of bygone eras. The weathered stones bear witness to the turbulent history that took place within the walls, from royal festivals to wars and conquests. I delight my eager listeners with stories of noble warriors, clever scholars and happy lovers, and these are carried away in their mind's eye on the wings of history.
After leaving Heidelberg behind us, we drive through the green vineyards of the Bergstrasse and the Odenwald, we are full of anticipation as we enter a family-owned winery where generations of winemakers have refined their craft. We surrender to the joys of wine tasting, savor the rich aromas and let the symphony of the senses dance on our palate.
We continue our exploration and venture along the Neckar with its castles and the Rhine with its palaces towards the Black Forest, a realm of fairy tales and natural wonders. Towering evergreen trees sway their tops in the wind, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor. I lead my group through this mystical world of cuckoo clocks and half-timbered houses where ancient folklore comes to life. We come across a hidden clearing where a gentle waterfall cascades into a crystal clear pool. It's a scene that seems straight out of a dream, and I encourage my guests to dip their toes in the cool waters to connect with the soul of this enchanted land.
In the picturesque town of Baden-Baden, we stroll through narrow streets lined with vibrant pastel facades and take in the lively atmosphere of the busy squares and bustling streets. The melody of street musicians fills the air, harmonizing with the laughter of locals and the excited chatter of visitors. We climb to the top of the nearby mountain and visit Hohen Baden Castle, a testament to human perseverance and architectural brilliance. From the dizzying heights of the tower we look out on a panorama that extends far beyond the state's borders and yet captures the essence of Baden-Württemberg's breathtaking landscapes.
As the day draws to a close and my guests say goodbye, I can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Being a tour guide is not just a job. It is a privilege, an opportunity to give people from all corners of the world a connection with the wonders of this remarkable region. Whether it's sharing the legends of castles and palaces, the joys of wine country, wonders of brewing, or the magic of the Black Forest, I am a storyteller, a bridge between past and present, and it is my honor to guide others through to explore the treasures of this region, a region that will forever have a place in our hearts.
This is how Chat GPT describes my average working day as a tour guide, and even if the language is exaggerated and perhaps not every moment is as breathtaking as the artificial intelligence imagined, I have to broadly agree with the portrayal. With enthusiasm and stories, I try to give my guests some of the magic they feel.
I got to know and love the south-west of Germany in my childhood and youth. During my studies in Heidelberg I learned more about art history, architecture and history, which can now be perfectly combined with my experience in and love of gastronomy as a tour guide.
After working in the tourism industry in the office and as a tour guide for some time, the time came to become self-employed and set up my own small agency. I didn't have to look long for support for this project because my wife Anja immediately said she would support me full-time and with all her talents and strength.
We also have a team of enthusiastic tour guides who provide us with help and advice on a freelance basis.
Together we bring you the Neckartales. Stories in and around the Neckar Valley. And beyond.
Thanks to all,
Best regards,
Jan Enss
Founder Neckartales