Surface area: 1.376 hectares
Population: 451.250 residents
Managing entity: Service des espaces verts
The three Strasbourg Rhine forests are remains of alluvial forests from the end of the tertiary period. They have a large hydrographic network with former arms of the Rhine, developed reservoirs, wetlands, and ground water. These "breathing" areas, located less than 10 km from the town centre, contribute to the urban area's quality of life. They have a recreational, social, biological, health, cultural, and scientific mission, as well as being a protected area.
The Strasbourg Rhine forests have three massifs:
The Robertsau forest:
located north of the city, it has a surface area of 493 hectares. Awaiting approval for listing as a natural reserve.
Neuhof forest:
located in the south of the city, it covers 600 hectares. Awaiting approval for listing as a natural reserve.
Roherschollen island:
310 hectares, including 157 hectares of forest. Listed as a natural reserve since 1997.
An exceptional natural heritage
Strasbourg periurban forests, rare remains of Rhine alluvial forests, are genuine natural monuments. This "capital" of wild, exuberant nature, symbiosis of water and forest, is made up of a diversity of tree species unequalled in Europe. Pedunculate oaks grow alongside ash trees, poplars, willows, elms, and wild apple trees, bending their boughs under a luxurious growth of liana, clematis, hops, ivy, and wild vines. Nesting and wintering havens for birds and fish spawning grounds, these Rhine forests have an exceptionally diverse wildlife (242 bird species, 47 mammal species, 30 species of fish, etc.)
Main activities
Strasbourg citizens visit these three forest massifs assiduously to escape from the hectic pace of city life. Over 30 km of marked walking trails, 14 km of bike trails, 21 km of horse riding trails, and athletic courses have been created for them. Fishermen have access to waterways as well as a spawning ground that has been created. Informational panels have been placed along five kilometres of botanical and nature discovery trials to promote environmental education.
Thanks to partnership based on long-term development between the EDF (French electric company) and Rohrschollen natural reserve, two new educational and landscape trails were inaugurated in November 2001.
