Slipping between the bustling city and the serene flow of the Rhine, we find Rettbergsaue. Rettbergsaue isn’t just an island. It’s a sanctuary, a breathing space, a place where the whispers of history mingle with the rustling of leaves. The Rettbergsaue, translating to “Rettberg Island,” takes its name from Baron Carl von Rettberg. In 1832, he saw potential in this Rhine haven. He purchased the island, envisioning a thriving agricultural enterprise. He paid around 1,125 guilders for this slice of paradise. Ironically, financial woes forced him to relinquish Rettbergsaue back to Nassau a few years later. This time, the price tag was a hefty 50,000 guilders. Imagine the baron’s mixed emotions. The Rhine has always been a source of life. Rettbergsaue embodies this. It’s a natural island nestled between the main Rhine channel and the smaller Wachsbleicharm. This smaller channel marks the boundary between Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate. The island stretches approximately 3,100 meters long and up to 400 meters wide. Rettbergsaue encompasses around 68 hectares, making it one of the Rhine’s largest islands with unimpeded river flow on both sides. While much of Rettbergsaue thrives under protected status, parts of it offer recreational joy. Two former beaches, Schierstein and Biebrich, now serve as leisure grounds. Visitors can enjoy playgrounds, barbecue areas, and even indulge in a game of floor chess or volleyball. The island’s car-free environment and dog-free policy make Rettbergsaue a haven for families. Children can roam freely, their laughter echoing amidst the trees. If you’re lucky, you might glimpse the passenger ferry Tamara. During summer, it connects the island’s beaches to Schierstein Port and a Biebrich landing. Rettbergsaue holds more than just recreational delights. It’s a vibrant ecosystem. Approximately 90% of the island flourishes as a nature reserve. This protected area harbors a diverse array of habitats, from lush forests to tranquil meadows. It serves as a vital green lung between Wiesbaden and Mainz. This natural barrier filters emissions and offers a welcome respite from urban life. As you stand here, on the edge of this Rhine jewel, take a deep breath. Let the serenity of Rettbergsaue wash over you. It’s a reminder that even amidst the hustle of modern life, pockets of tranquility and natural beauty persist. Rettbergsaue, a testament to nature’s resilience and a haven for those seeking respite, invites you to explore its hidden wonders.
Stelen Sculpture
Amidst the cityscape, the Stelen Sculpture rises. The Stelen Sculpture in Mainz. A silent sentinel of art. Created in 1987