Sandhofen

Right in the north, where Mannheim slowly gives way to the surrounding countryside, lies Sandhofen - the city's northernmost district, which has kept its independent, almost rural character. Grown residential quarters and industrial sites meet extensive nature reserves along the Rhine, where old river arms, floodplain forest and meadows alternate. The mix of working tradition, village character and closeness to nature gives Sandhofen a character all of its own, away from the bustle. The city center is around ten kilometres away and the tram takes correspondingly longer than from the central quarters - but the Rhine landscape begins directly behind the last houses. For visitors the district is mainly of interest as a starting point for cycling tours along the old Rhine, not as a sightseeing destination.