Kristianstads Vattenrike Biosphere Reserve

Kristianstads Vattenrike Biosphere Reserve is a large area of marshes, open waters, and riverbanks along the Helge å river in southern Sweden. The landscape consists of different habitats layered together, each supporting different forms of life.

In the 1800s, an engineer changed much of the area by draining wetlands to create farmland. These changes shaped the landscape we see today.

The place reflects how local communities have shaped the land over centuries through farming and water management. Today, visitors can see how residents continue to adapt to the wetland environment through conservation efforts and sustainable practices.

The Naturum Vattenriket visitor center is the main starting point for understanding the area and planning your visit. It provides information about hiking trails, birdwatching locations, and paddling routes for different interests.

The area contains Sweden's lowest point, which sits just below sea level. This unusual feature makes it scientifically valuable and shows how wetlands store carbon naturally.