Wondering what hides just 10 kilometers from Strasbourg’s city center? It’s the R\u00e9serve naturelle de l’\u00eele du Rohrschollen. This national nature reserve is a treasure. It protects a rare ecosystem.
In 1997, the R\u00e9serve naturelle de l’\u00eele du Rohrschollen became a national nature reserve. Today, the R\u00e9serve naturelle de l’\u00eele du Rohrschollen offers an ideal escape. People come here to enjoy nature close to the city. You can explore forests and alluvial meadows. You can also discover aquatic environments.
But how did this precious island form? The Rhine River played a key role. The Rhine was once wild. Its landscape constantly shifted. Numerous islands of varying sizes dotted the river. One island upstream from Strasbourg was named Rohrschollen Kopf.
The Rhine’s wild nature provided resources. However, it also brought devastating floods. People began domesticating the Rhine in the mid-19th century. They wanted to control it and manage its banks. These changes harmed the alluvial environment. The river’s balance was disrupted.
Realizing this damage, people took action. They classified the \u00eele du Rohrschollen as a national nature reserve. The R\u00e9serve naturelle de l’\u00eele du Rohrschollen covers 310 hectares. It is a protected alluvial forest.
The R\u00e9serve naturelle de l’\u00eele du Rohrschollen is an important ornithological site. A total of 158 bird species have been recorded here. Positioned on a major migration route, it welcomes many migratory birds. They find refuge and food in the R\u00e9serve naturelle de l’\u00eele du Rohrschollen. Over 4,000 waterfowl overwinter here annually.
To get here, you first cross an impressive lock. This allows 16,000 ships to navigate the Rhine each year. Watching a boat pass is quite a sight. Next comes the hydroelectric dam. It transforms the river’s water into electricity. Six “bulb” turbines power this process.
The R\u00e9serve naturelle de l’\u00eele du Rohrschollen has four marked trails. These trails let you explore the island’s exceptional flora and fauna. Discover forests, meadows, and wetlands.
The “Forest Gallery Trail” is perhaps the most scenic. It takes you through a humid poplar forest. The trees form a natural canopy. Cross dry dikes and wooden walkways. You might see amphibians, frogs or deer.
The “Greylag Goose Trail” is a shorter loop. It leads to the northern part of the island. This trail crosses natural meadows and wetlands. The greylag goose is an iconic symbol of the reserve. The path ends along the Rhine.
The “Old Rhine Trail” circles almost the entire island. This path crosses various environments. See dry dikes, edges, and gravel banks. It also offers views of the Strasbourg canal and the natural Rhine.
Finally, the “Turning Water Trail” shows the interaction between nature and technology. This trail explores the hydroelectric plant and the Strasbourg canal. Observe the locks and the surrounding small woods. A highlight is the fish pass. This technical innovation helps fish migrate past the dam.
Free guided tours are available throughout the year. They are provided by the R\u00e9serve naturelle de l’\u00eele du Rohrschollen staff.
The R\u00e9serve naturelle de l’\u00eele du Rohrschollen is easily accessible. It is a haven of peace. A 40-minute bike ride from Strasbourg’s center will bring you here. The R\u00e9serve naturelle de l’\u00eele du Rohrschollen offers a unique natural escape. It’s just a short distance from Strasbourg’s lively urban life. Remember, respect this fragile and protected environment.