Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Ries Crater Nature Park, located in the Bavarian region of southern Germany, protects the 24-kilometer-diameter Nördlinger Ries, one of the best-preserved meteorite impact craters in Europe. Formed approximately 14.6 million years ago during the Miocene epoch by a massive asteroid impact, the crater shaped the region's landscape with its distinctive circular basin surrounded by an elevated rim. The park spans roughly 1,200 square kilometers and includes a mosaic of forests, farmlands, wetlands, and small towns. Ecologically, it supports a rich biodiversity with a mix of deciduous woods, meadow habitats, and aquatic environments in crater lakes such as the Ellwangen and Dinkelsbühl basins. The Ries Crater is a UNESCO Global Geopark, drawing geology enthusiasts worldwide eager to explore its suevite rock formations and shatter cones formed by the impact. Popular recreation includes hiking the crater rim trails that offer panoramic views, cycling paths through scenic Bavarian countryside, and nature observation in the various forest and wetland zones. Cultural landmarks such as the medieval town of Nördlingen—built largely from impact-formed suevite stone—add historical appeal. The Rieskrater Museum provides extensive educational exhibits on the crater’s formation and significance, further enriching the visitor experience. This blend of natural beauty, geological uniqueness, outdoor activities, and deep history makes Ries Crater Nature Park a distinctive destination for all ages and interests.
