The aptly named Solitude neighborhood is a quiet, wooded area west of Stuttgart. Escape the city here, just as Duke Carl Eugen von Württemberg did more than 250 years ago. He envisioned Solitude Palace, a magnificent summer residence and hunting lodge.

Find the best spot to photograph the castle exterior from the southeast entrance. View the symmetric wings and grand curving staircases as well as the open archway under the building that gives a hint of views on the other side.

Tour the interior to see extravagant Rococo and early Classical design elements. Climb the spiral staircase to the cupola for a panoramic vista that the duke desired and achieved. Note the ceiling painting in the White Hall, filled with symbolism of war, peace, wine and culture.

Surrounding the palace, dense forest offers a perfect setting for refreshing woodland walks. Hike south about 2 miles (4 kilometers) to Bärenschlössle (Bear Castle), originally built in 1768 and rebuilt by King Wilhelm I in the 1800s. The current building, reconstructed after World War II destruction, is a replica of the earlier hunting pavilion.

Watch for red deer while passing through Rotwildpark along the way. This is an easy hike, with food and drink on the castle terrace overlooking the waters of the Bärensee serving as a nice reward for your efforts. Try Swabian wine the local red varieties are not as sweet as typical German whites. Hardy locals enjoy this short hike in every season, with wildflowers in the spring and winter snow providing magical touches.

Drive southwest from Solitude Palace for about 10 minutes to reach the Glemseck Solitude Rennstrecke. Operating from 1903 to 1965 with motorcycle races, the track occasionally reopens for special classic car and other spectator events. Today the ADAC traffic training facility uses the track as a safe location for inexperienced drivers to practice.

Reach Solitude from central Stuttgart in 15 minutes by car or ride the light rail and bus in 20 to 30 minutes.