Esslingen is planning a new viewing platform modeled on the Luitenbächer Höhe!

Esslingen is planning a new viewing platform modeled on the Luitenbächer Höhe!

An exciting project is currently being worked on in the city of Esslingen that could significantly increase the region's tourist attractiveness. The local politicians are looking at the success story of the Luitenbächer Höhe in Weinstadt, which was built before the Remstal Garden Show in 2019 as an eye-catcher with far-reaching views of the surrounding landscape. This event location has emerged as a popular attraction and is seen by Esslingen's CDU parliamentary group as a model for its own viewing platform in the wine-growing region. Stuttgart News reported on the benefits and challenges this brings.

This initiative also involves the introduction of an accommodation tax, which is currently being discussed in the Esslingen local council. Loud Esslinger newspaper The tax is intended to use the revenue directly to expand and promote tourist offerings in the city. This proposal also met with a positive response from the Green city council group, which supported the idea of ​​using revenue for tourism infrastructure.

The plans for the viewing platform

The desired viewing platform should not only be a gem for Esslingen, but should also be realized directly in cooperation with local winegrowers, restaurateurs and cultural and event companies. The preferred locations for the platform are vineyards that offer visitors an outstanding view of the old town and the market square. A detailed implementation concept, which includes cost frameworks, location suggestions and funding opportunities, is targeted by mid-2026.

The CDU parliamentary group leader Tim Hauser emphasizes that the accommodation tax should be levied as a flat rate and not as a percentage in order to minimize bureaucracy. He also calls the platform an opportunity to promote wine and gourmet tourism as well as cycling and day tourism in Esslingen. The gastronomic view is intended to offer enjoyable experiences and enhance the region as a whole.

Experiences from Weinstadt

The Luitenbächer Höhe has not only proven itself in Weinstadt; It is also seen as a role model by those responsible there and radiates inspiration for other wine-growing communities. The views there are described as particularly scenic and plans are already in the works for ten days of events in 2026, including seven days with the Sunset Lounge. These event days show the entire potential of the Luitenbächer Höhe as a tourist hotspot.

However, there are also critical voices: residents have protested against its use for tourism, particularly against the serving of wine by local wineries. The Weinstadt administration has already taken action and imposed restrictions on the Sunset Lounge to address the concerns of residents. An ongoing development plan process is intended to ensure that future plans are legally secured.

Esslingen's efforts to create a similar attraction are a sign of future-oriented planning and the desire to further develop the city as a holiday destination. Thanks to Weinstadt's preparatory work and inspiration, Esslingen could soon present a new pearl in the wine landscape.