Strasbourg-Neuhof - Illkirch-Graffenstaden Forest Nature Reserve

The nature reserve of Neuhof-Illkirch Forest is the perfect place to get back to nature. Many nature trails run through the forests, along the waterways and across open areas, where a wide variety of plants and wildlife (hundreds of animal and plant species) can be found. Almost 95% of the reserve’s surface area is covered by forest (890 hectares). 83 different species of trees and shrubs can be found there. Although the Rhine’s influence has diminished since it was transformed into a canal, the aquatic environments are still very present: four waterways wind through the forest, and there are about thirty ponds and small bodies of water in the forest. The presence of these aquatic habitats has contributed greatly to the diversity of the plant and animal species in this reserve, mainly comprised of forest. The reserve also features a few meadow environments. Heyssel Meadow, the largest (11.6 hectares), has become one of the most treasured grasslands, given the variety of natural habitats found there. Preserving them is a key priority, because they add diversity to habitats and are home to remarkable plants. It’s so easy to get back to nature, so close to Strasbourg!