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.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
Kreuzberg
5.5 km
Kloster Kreuzberg
5.8 km
Burgruine
4.1 km
Pfarrkirche
5.4 km
Pfarrkirche
5.8 km
Kirche
3.2 km
St. Laurentius (Schönau an der Brend)
5 km
Kuratiekirche
4 km
Ehemaliges Pfarrhaus
5.8 km
Pfarrkirche
5.4 km
Heilige Dreifaltigkeit
4.4 km
Filialkirche
2.6 km
Mariä Himmelfahrt
1.4 km
Pfarrhaus
5 km
Freibad Bischofsheim
5.6 km
Kuratiekirche
5 km
Kriegerdenkmal
6.3 km
Wohnhaus
5.7 km
Bildstock
2.9 km
Wohnhaus
5.3 km
Wohnstallhaus
5.4 km
Wohnhaus
5.4 km
Basaltblockmeer Johannisfeuer am Kreuzberg
5.3 km
Brückenfigur
6.3 km
Wohnhaus
6.2 km
Wohnhaus
6.2 km
Kreuzwegstation
5.7 km
Bauernhaus
5.7 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes