Rohrschollen Island National Nature Reserve
Since 1997 the Rohrschollen Island National Nature Reserve has protected some 310 hectares of floodplain forest, meadows and Rhine, south-east of Strasbourg, between the Grand Canal d'Alsace and the Old Rhine. Open to all year-round, it is explored on marked paths, 7.5 km from the centre. A concentrate of Rhine nature, rich in birdlife, to be treated with great care.
A 5.3 km island between two Rhines
Created by decree on 4 March 1997, the reserve occupies Rohrschollen Island, at the far south of the Port du Rhin district, between the Grand Canal d'Alsace and the Old Rhine, which here forms the border with Germany. The island is 5.3 km long, 750 m at its widest and only 100 m at its northern tip. Its roughly 310 hectares break down into about 157 hectares of floodplain forest, 25 hectares of meadow and 127 hectares of Rhine. It is managed by the City of Strasbourg.
Woodpeckers, waterbirds and wild garlic
The floodplain forest of black poplars, ash, white willows and oaks is threaded with climbing plants, including the protected wild grapevine. In spring, the undergrowth is carpeted with wild garlic. The meadows are home to the marsh helleborine, a protected orchid. As for wildlife, more than 158 bird species have been recorded, including six species of woodpecker, and over 4,000 waterbirds spend the winter here. Amphibians, reptiles, butterflies and grasshoppers round out this richness.
The reserve's rules
The reserve is open to everyone all year round, but visitors must keep to the marked paths and follow the code of conduct published by the city, which sets out among other things the rules on dogs. The island can be temporarily flooded: it is then evacuated, and access is strictly forbidden throughout the flooding, including on the cycle path to Germany, until the water has fully receded. Environmental police officers patrol the site, and any breach can lead to a penalty.
Getting to the Rohrschollen
The site is 7.5 km from the centre of Strasbourg. You can come by bike, public transport or car, with a car park at the entrance to the reserve. The entrance area is designed to raise visitors' awareness, and the city offers guided tours to discover the island and the Rhine environment. Bring good shoes and check the Strasbourg nature reserves website before setting off, especially when water levels are high.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Rohrschollen reserve?
South-east of Strasbourg, at the far south of the Port du Rhin district, on an island between the Grand Canal d'Alsace and the Old Rhine, about 7.5 km from the centre.
Can I visit freely?
Yes, all year round, keeping to the marked paths and following the code of conduct. Access is forbidden when the island is flooded.
Are dogs allowed?
The rules on dogs are set out in the reserve's code of conduct, published on the Strasbourg nature reserves website. Check them before coming with your dog.
What can I see on the walk?
A Rhine floodplain forest with its climbing plants, wild garlic in spring, woodpeckers and, in winter, many waterbirds. The city's guided tours help you spot them.
Wikimedia Commons — Paralacre
