Grainberg-Kalbenstein und Saupurzel, Protected area near Karlstadt am Main, Germany
The Grainberg-Kalbenstein and Saupurzel reserve is a protected area covering about 300 hectares of limestone formations, sandstone terraces, vineyard walls, and dry grasslands along the Main River. It combines different habitats ranging from steep rocky slopes to flat meadows.
The area received its initial protection in 1941, making it one of the oldest nature reserves in Lower Franconia. A major expansion in 2005 grew the protected land to its current size.
The site gets its names from landscape features: Grainberg and Kalbenstein are hills, while Saupurzel is a stream. Locals use these names to navigate the protected area and identify its distinct zones.
The area is accessible through several walking trails, including the K1 circular route. Parking is available near Karlstadt and at the Gambach concert hall.
The area is home to 22 orchid species and the Karlstadt hawkweed, an endemic plant discovered in 1998 that grows only in this region. This rare plant life makes the reserve particularly valuable for botanists and nature lovers.
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