Our journey through Europe led us to Kirchheim unter Teck—a charming town steeped in history and deeply connected to my own family roots. With my mother’s father’s side hailing from two small villages just a 6- and 30-minute drive away, this stop was more than just another destination—it was a homecoming of sorts. My family’s immigration to the US in 1853 from this very area made our stay all the more personal and nostalgic.
We checked into a unique hotel called the Stall—a delightful establishment that once served as a horse stall over a hundred years ago. Now transformed into both a hotel and restaurant, it’s perfectly located within walking distance of Kirchheim’s Altstadt and luckily for us the vibrant Kirchheim Musiknacht. Every day, we strolled to the old part of town, soaking in the quaint atmosphere, rich history, and the welcoming pulse of the local life.
Kirchheim’s walkability was a pure delight. We spent our mornings exploring the area around the Altstadt, while our afternoons were often enjoyed on one of the many inviting patios, where our dogs laid happily at our feet. Dining outdoors in such a picturesque setting made every meal feel like a small celebration of life’s joys.
One of the highlights of our stay was the Kirchheim Musiknacht concert, celebrating its 25th anniversary. The city came alive with music—from rock and pop to blues, Latin, and lots of German hits. The festive, eclectic vibe was the perfect backdrop for an evening of music, laughter, and shared memories. It felt wonderful to experience a celebration that brought together such a diverse mix of sounds and cultures. Magnus, raised in downtown Nashville, was perfectly at home in the middle of a concert; he spent many summers at CMA Fest and community concerts across Nashville. This was Cirrus’ very first concert and though he was a little overwhelmed, he loved meeting people and exploring.
We find an out of the way park to visit every chance we get. In Kirchheim Daniel found Schäferhauser See—a serene lakeside destination in nearby Wendlingen am Neckar. The area, complete with a miniature train and boat docks, is a haven for walkers, joggers, families, and anyone in need of a peaceful escape. Our walk around the lake was the ideal way to relax and reflect on our journey.
In between our explorations, we indulged in a bit of local shopping—snagging a few pairs of Keens and some beautifully crafted linen clothes that were needed for the journey and the still coming summer heat.
Kirchheim unter Teck, located about 22 miles from Stuttgart, lies gracefully below the Teckberg Ridge and the Teck Castle, which gives the town its evocative name, “unter Teck.” The history of Kirchheim is as captivating as its present. First mentioned in 960, though likely rooted in the 6th or 7th century with the building of a church dedicated to Saint Martin, the town has seen centuries of change. In the 13th century, the Duke of Teck founded a nunnery here, and not long after, city walls began to take shape. The current face of the town is a testament to its resilience—rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1690, it stands today as a blend of ancient heritage and modern charm.
Our stay was a heartwarming reminder of where we come from and the enduring ties that connect us to our past, even as we journey onward to new adventures. Kirchheim unter Teck isn’t just a dot on the map—it’s a living, breathing story of heritage, resilience, and community. And for us, it was the perfect pit stop on our European roadtrip—a place where history met everyday joy, and where every corner whispered a little piece of home.
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