Beech forests – part of our European natural heritage

Without the impact of human intervention, Central Europe would be entirely covered by forests. In their natural state, these extensive forests would be dominated by the beech tree. Even today, this tree species characterises the forests between the Egge and the river Weser. However, on a global scale, the regionally omnipresent beech is a real rarity: its occurrence is limited to Europe. Therefore Europe, and especially Central Europe, has a great responsibility towards the conservation of beech forests. In order to meet these requirements, the most important sites were incorporated in the European conservation network “Natura 2000”.

A major component of “Exquisite Nature” is the nature reserve “Forests between the Iburg and Aschenhütte” (size: 217 ha) – where you are standing right now. Please seize the opportunity to visit the local GPS Discovery Trail which has a length of 5 km and offers the chance to experience beech forests and their inhabitants. Furthermore, you will learn about historic forest management, glassworks, sink holes and the history of the Iburg, going back hundreds of years.