Schwackenreuter Baggerseen - Rübelisbach, Nature reserve in Baden-Württemberg, Germany.
Schwackenreuter Baggerseen-Rübelisbach is a protected nature reserve in Baden-Württemberg consisting of several lakes created through gravel extraction between Hohenfels and Mühlingen. The site spans about 104 hectares across two districts and features shallow waters surrounded by developing vegetation.
The area formed through gravel mining operations where excavated pits gradually filled with water and became natural lakes. Official protection status came in 2006 when regional councils in Freiburg and Tübingen issued a conservation regulation.
The site marks the European watershed between Rhine and Danube rivers, creating a geographical boundary that shaped how people settled and used the land. This location became a natural meeting point for different ecosystems.
A circular trail of about 9.6 kilometers loops around the lakes on well-maintained paths and takes roughly 2 to 2.5 hours to complete. The route is clearly marked and accessible for hikers with moderate fitness levels.
The lakes serve as breeding grounds for threatened bird species including black storks, white storks, red kites, and kingfishers. This gathering of rare birds makes the area a notable destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.