Rhön Biosphere Reserve, Biosphere reserve in central Germany
The Rhön Biosphere Reserve is a large protected area in central Germany spanning three federal states and covering more than 240,000 hectares. The terrain consists of highlands with grasslands, forests, and several zones designed to balance human activities with nature conservation.
The area received UNESCO recognition as a biosphere reserve in 1991, while the Thuringian section gained protection status during East Germany's final months. This made the Rhön an early example of cross-border nature conservation cooperation in reunified Germany.
The region is shaped by farmers who use traditional methods and maintain the characteristic open grasslands that define the landscape. You can see traces of this farming heritage everywhere as you move through the reserve.
The area can be explored through marked hiking trails, including the Hochrhöner path that guides visitors past major landmarks like Wasserkuppe. Sturdy footwear and waterproof clothing are essential since the highlands experience changeable weather.
The region is certified as a Dark Sky Park, meaning nighttime darkness is specially protected and stargazing happens under ideal conditions. This designation is rare in densely populated parts of Europe and makes the area valuable for anyone interested in observing the night sky.
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