Sandhausen: Inland Dunes, Local History Museum and Former Synagogue
Accommodation in Sandhausen
Discover Sandhausen through two special themes: its inland dunes and its local history, which can be explored at the local history museum and the former synagogue. This lets you tailor your stay to your own interests—whether you want to observe plants and animals or learn more about the town’s history. Both offer concrete starting points for planning your holiday and searching for a holiday apartment in Sandhausen.
Die katholische Kirche St. Bartholomae in Sandhausen.
Photo: 4028mdk09 via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Inland Dunes and Nature Watching
The Sandhausen dunes lie west and south of the town; just under 74 hectares are protected. At the southern edge of town, the Pferdstriebdüne stretches north to south as a long inland dune. Its southern continuation is the Brühlwegdüne, which was designated a nature reserve in 2020. The landscape therefore shows not only a single dune formation, but also how the protected areas are distributed in and around Sandhausen.
In the southern part of the Pferdstriebdüne, a path leads to the crest, about 8 m high. From there, you can observe the dune’s plants and animals. If you plan to take this path, check local access conditions before your visit. Excursions are another way to explore the area’s natural attractions: two are held each year at the Sand-Biotop near Sandhausen. Ask the organizer about the dates currently on offer.
Local History at the Museum
The Sandhausen Local History Museum is housed in a former town hall built in 1742 and presents a local history collection in seven rooms. A small archaeology section displays ceramic finds from various periods. The collection also includes agricultural equipment and objects from rural domestic life. The furnishings of an old living room and kitchen draw attention to home life; displays on traditional crafts, agriculture, and tobacco and hop cultivation complete the picture.
These subjects make the museum a good place to learn about different aspects of local history, from archaeological finds to work and everyday life. The museum is listed as open on the last Sunday of each month from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Check the information before your visit.
Former Synagogue and Remembrance
The former synagogue also tells the story of Sandhausen. After extensive renovation, it reopened as a cultural center in 1962. Since its renovation in 2015, it has hosted concerts, exhibitions and events; check for specific dates before visiting. A memorial stone at the former synagogue commemorates the Jewish residents who lost their lives during the Nazi era. Cultural events and remembrance offer different reasons to engage with local history here.
More to Explore in the Rhine-Neckar District
The wider Rhine-Neckar District offers additional, distinct themes. Much of Ladenburg’s historic center still reflects the Middle Ages, with some traces of Roman times. The Electoral Palace in Schwetzingen features a Rococo theater and a world-famous park. Asparagus has also been grown in Schwetzingen for about 350 years. If you are interested in nature activities, the Rhine-Neckar District as a whole offers the annual “Ab in den Wald” program, with free guided forest walks and excursions. These regional themes complement Sandhausen’s highlights with further cultural, landscape and nature experiences.
Discover More Destinations
Rauenberg, Lobbach, Neidenstein, Schönbrunn, Wiesloch, Leimen, Walldorf, Wilhelmsfeld
Back to the main travel guide: Rhine-Neckar District.
