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Eriskircher Ried: A Lakeside Nature Paradise

Discover Eriskircher Ried: Lake Constance's largest nature reserve, a haven for birdwatchers, hikers, and nature lovers. Explore diverse habitats and scenic trails.

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Eriskircher Ried, the largest nature reserve on the northern shore of Lake Constance, offers a captivating landscape of marshlands, meadows, and forests teeming with diverse flora and fauna. It's a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts seeking tranquility and scenic beauty.

A brief summary to Eriskircher Ried

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit in late spring (May/June) to witness the spectacular bloom of the Siberian Iris.
  • Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching, especially during migration or winter months.
  • Check the Naturschutzzentrum Eriskirch's schedule for guided tours and events.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the trails, which may be uneven in places.
  • Be mindful of the nature reserve's rules: stay on marked paths, keep dogs on leashes, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Eriskircher Ried is easily accessible by public transport. Take the train to Eriskirch Bahnhof. From the train station, the Naturschutzzentrum is a short walk away, marking the entrance to the nature reserve. Regional trains connect Eriskirch to Friedrichshafen and other nearby towns. A single train fare from Friedrichshafen to Eriskirch ranges from €3-€5. Buses also serve Eriskirch, with stops like Eriskirch Irisstraße providing access to the area. A bus ride from Friedrichshafen to Eriskirch costs approximately €2-€4.

  • Walking

    The Eriskircher Ried can be accessed by foot via well-marked hiking trails, including the Bodenseepfad (Lake Constance Trail). From Friedrichshafen, follow the trail eastwards along the lake shore towards Eriskirch. The walk from Friedrichshafen to the Eriskircher Ried is approximately 6 km and offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. Once in Eriskirch, follow signs to the Naturschutzzentrum to enter the reserve.

  • Car

    If driving, parking is available at Strandbad Eriskirch (Public swimming pool). From the parking lot, it's a short walk to the Eriskircher Ried. Parking fees at Strandbad Eriskirch are approximately €3 per hour. Limited parking is also available near the Eriskirch train station. Be aware that some parking areas near the nature reserve may have restrictions, such as no overnight parking.

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Discover more about Eriskircher Ried

Eriskircher Ried, nestled on the northern shores of Lake Constance (Bodensee), is a sprawling 552-hectare (1365-acre) nature reserve, the largest of its kind on the German side of the lake. Situated between the Rotach and Schussen river mouths, it presents a rich tapestry of landscapes: vibrant marsh meadows, serene backwaters, and relic alluvial forests meet the lake's natural shoreline. Designated as a protected area since 1939, with expansions in 1983, Eriskircher Ried is a sanctuary for an astounding array of plant and animal life. Over 600 species of flowering plants thrive here, alongside nearly 280 bird species, making it a paradise for ornithologists. During migration seasons in May and September, the area teems with activity, while winter months bring a spectacle of northern waterfowl. Visitors can explore the Ried through numerous walking trails, observation platforms, and educational paths. The Naturschutzzentrum Eriskirch (Nature Conservation Center), located in the former Eriskirch train station, offers fascinating insights into the Bodensee region's natural landscape and the Eriskircher Ried. The center provides guided tours, lectures, and seminars throughout the year. The Eriskircher Ried's beauty lies in its diversity. Streuwiesen (litter meadows), rivers, backwaters, alluvial forests, the shores of Lake Constance, and shallow water zones all contribute to a vibrant ecosystem. The changing water levels of the lake dictate the rhythm of life in the Ried, providing habitats for plants and animals. Birdwatchers can spot various species, including swans, diving ducks, kingfishers, and grebes. In the spring, the Siberian iris blooms, transforming the meadows into a sea of blue.

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