Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Rhön Nature Park, established in 1990, spans across the German federal states of Hesse (HE), Bavaria (BY), and Thuringia (TH). It is part of the UNESCO Rhön Biosphere Reserve, known for its distinctive extinct volcanic mountains, open grasslands, and rich biodiversity. The park covers a varied terrain of gently rounded basalt peaks, plateaus, wetlands, and meadows that support rare flora and fauna, including numerous orchid species and the vulnerable black stork. The Rhön is celebrated for its traditional rural landscapes with pastures and small farms that shape the cultural character of the region. Visitors can explore over 6,000 kilometers of marked hiking trails, including the famed Long Rhön Trail (Lange Rhönweg), which provides panoramic views of the high Rhön peaks such as the Wasserkuppe, the highest point of the range at 950 meters. In addition to hiking, mountain biking, winter sports like cross-country skiing, and gliding are popular recreational pursuits. Historic sites such as medieval castles, timber-frame villages, and open-air museums enrich the visitor experience. The Rhön is also one of Germany’s first designated Dark Sky Reserves, making it exceptional for astronomy enthusiasts. The park’s gentle terrain and well-developed trail network cater to hikers of all abilities, from casual walkers to seasoned trekkers. Its unique combination of geological, ecological, and cultural attributes makes Rhön Nature Park a treasured destination for outdoor recreation, nature study, and relaxation in a tranquil setting away from urban bustle.
