Urwald Sababurg

Urwald Sababurg is a nature reserve in the Reinhardswald forest of Hesse, protecting old oaks and beeches across approximately 92 hectares. The trees grow close together, and thick fallen trunks lie on the forest floor slowly decaying.

The area received official protection as a natural monument in 1907, becoming the oldest protected site in Hesse. This early recognition helped preserve the old tree populations through the following decades.

Local painters once gathered here to capture the gnarled trunks and twisted branches on canvas. Theodor Rocholl's work from this forest inspired later artists to seek out the same trees for their studies.

Three circular walking routes lead through the reserve, with parking spots located along the K55 district road nearby. The paths are unpaved and can become slippery when wet.

Management deliberately leaves large amounts of standing and fallen deadwood throughout the forest. These toppled trunks and dead branches provide habitat for hermit beetles, wildcats, bats and woodpeckers.

Location: Gutsbezirk Reinhardswald

Inception: June 27, 1966

GPS coordinates: 51.54250,9.50806

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:29