Teufelskadrich bei Lorch

Teufelskadrich bei Lorch is a conservation site featuring steeply descending forested stone slopes that cover nearly 400 hectares and slope sharply toward the Rhine Valley. The area contains multiple former quarries and supports various protected habitats within this challenging terrain.

The site was initially designated as a 138-hectare nature reserve in 1995 and later incorporated into the European Natura 2000 network in 2004. These steps reflected growing recognition of the ecological importance of this fragile mountain landscape.

The name Kadrich refers to natural or constructed sliding tracks that were historically used to transport wood from the highlands down to the Rhine Valley. This term continues to shape how locals perceive and describe this landscape.

Access is best reached from Lorch, as the terrain is extremely steep and sturdy footwear is essential. The best time to visit is during warmer months when trails are most accessible and wildlife activity is highest.

The site harbors the Russian Bear moth, a rare nocturnal species whose caterpillars feed exclusively on nettles and occur in only a few places across Germany. This specialized moth makes the conservation area internationally important for species protection.