The best city hikes and walks in Réserve Naturelle De L'Île Du Rohrschollen

The Réserve Naturelle De L'Île Du Rohrschollen offers a wide variety of urban hiking experiences, with over 140 routes available. Most of these, around 100, are considered easy, making them accessible for many visitors.

The reserve is renowned for its unique and protected ecosystem. You'll encounter rare alluvial forests, often compared to rainforests for their density, expansive alluvial meadows, and various wetlands. The natural Old Rhine borders the reserve, offering picturesque waterfront views, alongside dry dikes and gravel banks that form part of the trails.

No, to protect the local fauna and the sensitive ecosystem, dogs are unfortunately not permitted within the perimeter of the Réserve Naturelle De L'Île Du Rohrschollen.

Yes, many of the trails are suitable for families. For a shorter, immersive experience, consider the Sentier de l'Oie Cendrée, which takes about 45 minutes through the reserve's marshes. Another option is the Sentier de l'Eau qui tourne, roughly an hour long, offering views of the hydroelectric plant and the Strasbourg Canal.

Réserve Naturelle De L'Île Du Rohrschollen is a significant ornithological site, recording 158 bird species, and serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds. You might spot over 4,000 overwintering waterfowl. There are even dedicated bird observatories. Beyond birds, the reserve safeguards a rich biodiversity of flora, amphibians, and fish.

Yes, the reserve features several excellent circular walks. The extensive Sentier du Vieux Rhin loops almost entirely around the island, taking approximately four hours. For a shorter option, the Sentier de la Forêt Galerie offers a two-hour immersion in the humid poplar forest.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can discover several unique features. The Rheinau Dam and its innovative fish pass, where you can sometimes observe salmon, is a notable attraction. Other points of interest include a submersible road, a path on stilts, and areas where Highland Cattle graze. You can also explore the Rohrschollen Island Riverside Trail.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.44 stars from over 2,800 ratings. Reviewers often praise the unique natural environment, the tranquility, and the well-maintained trails that offer a diverse experience, from dense forests to riverside paths.

Yes, some urban hikes in the wider region connect to nearby German towns. For example, the Footbridge of the Two Banks – Garden of Two Shores, Kehl loop from Kehl is a moderate 10 km hike that takes you across the Rhine.

The reserve offers unique experiences year-round. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. In winter, the reserve becomes a crucial site for over 4,000 overwintering waterfowl, making it an excellent time for birdwatching. The alluvial forest's density and humidity also make it an interesting destination even in warmer months.

For those seeking a longer and more challenging urban hike, consider routes like the Strasbourg Cathedral – La Petite France loop from Kehl. This difficult 22 km route offers a substantial urban exploration experience.

While specific parking areas are not detailed in the reserve's general information, visitors typically find designated parking facilities near the main entrances or trailheads of nature reserves. It is advisable to check local signage upon arrival for the most current parking information.