Nature Reserves in Kreis Kleve

The nature reserves in Kreis Kleve are protected areas preserving diverse landscapes shaped by the Rhine River and the last ice age. These range from expansive floodplains and alluvial forests to rolling hills and inland dunes. This page aggregates routes and information for 11 of these reserves, which are part of a larger network of over 60 protected areas in the district.

The primary activities are hiking, cycling, and mountain biking, with over 1,700 routes available across the aggregated reserves. The flat floodplains are ideal for cycling and easy walks, while forested areas like the Klever Reichswald offer more varied terrain for hiking and mountain bike trails. Birdwatching is also a significant activity, particularly in the wetland and floodplain reserves.

Notable reserves include Salmorth, an internationally important wintering ground for arctic wild geese. The Nsg Dueffel - Kellener Altrhein Und Flussmarschen is a large meadow landscape crucial for meadow birds. For a different landscape, the Nsg Geldenberg within the Klever Reichswald offers forested hills and more challenging terrain.

The Salmorth nature reserve is characterized by an open, expansive floodplain landscape. It features vast grasslands and wetlands on a peninsula between an old arm of the Rhine and the main river. This flat terrain is ideal for hiking and cycling, offering panoramic views and premier birdwatching opportunities.

This reserve, often called the 'Düffel', is a vast, flat meadow land with wetlands, hedges, and old flood channels. Its extensive network of trails is well-suited for long cycling tours and hikes suitable for all fitness levels. There are over 60 hiking routes and 30 cycling routes available within the Nsg Dueffel - Kellener Altrhein Und Flussmarschen.

There are hundreds of hiking trails across the nature reserves, catering to various preferences. Flat, easy walking paths are common in floodplain reserves like Grietherorter Altrhein. For more varied terrain with hills, the forests of Staatsforst Rheurdt/Littard provide numerous routes through mixed woodlands.

Yes, several nature reserves offer routes suitable for mountain biking. The Nsg Geldenberg, part of the Klever Reichswald, is noted for its varied terrain and includes some challenging climbs. Other forested areas also feature trails that accommodate mountain bikers.

Yes, many reserves offer easy, flat routes suitable for families. The floodplain landscapes of Salmorth and the Düffel provide gentle paths with open views. The trails around the lakes in Abgrabungsseen Lohrwardt Und Reckerfeld are also well-suited for family outings.

The reserves can be visited year-round, but different seasons offer unique experiences. Winter is the prime season for birdwatching, especially in Salmorth and the Düffel, when up to 200,000 arctic geese are present. Spring and summer are ideal for observing wildflowers and the general activity of meadow birds, while autumn provides pleasant conditions for hiking and cycling in the forests.

Regulations for dogs vary by reserve and are in place to protect wildlife, particularly ground-nesting birds. In most nature reserves (Naturschutzgebiete), dogs must be kept on a short leash at all times. It is essential to check local signage and adhere to the specific rules of each area to minimize disturbance to the ecosystem.

The terrain is highly varied. Many reserves along the Rhine, such as Dornicksche Ward and Emmericher Ward, are predominantly flat floodplains and meadows. In contrast, reserves within the Klever Reichswald or Uedemer Hochwald are situated on rolling hills formed during the ice age, offering more elevation changes for hikers and cyclists.