Pfrunger-Burgweiler Ried
Pfrunger-Burgweiler Ried
Best natural monuments in Pfrunger-Burgweiler Ried is the second-largest moorland area in southwest Germany. This extensive moor landscape is a protected nature reserve, emphasizing the preservation of its rare flora and fauna. It represents a significant rewetting project aimed at preserving and regenerating the existing moor. The area provides a crucial habitat for rare animal and plant species, including around 210 different bird species.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
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Popular around Pfrunger-Burgweiler Ried
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And no annoying mosquitoes up there.
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Great view
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The Pfrunger-Burgweiler Ried (formerly Pfrunger Ried), with its 2,600 hectares, is the second largest contiguous moorland in southwest Germany after the Federsee. The Ried lies at an average elevation of 610 m above sea level in the districts of Ravensburg and Sigmaringen, near the municipalities of Wilhelmsdorf and Ostrach. It is surrounded by Tertiary molasse uplands, which reach their highest elevations at Rinkenburg (718 m above sea level) and Höchsten (837.8 m above sea level). Only small parts of the moorland, which once covered almost 3,000 hectares, have survived. Almost 2,000 hectares have been converted to grassland, and about 400 hectares are planted with birch and black alder trees. 120 hectares of water bodies were created by peat cutting; thus, the lowland and intermediate moor areas in particular have disappeared, with only a few remnants. However, the raised bogs have been largely preserved and cover an area of almost 150 hectares. The Pfrunger-Burgweiler Ried Nature Reserve has existed since 1980, covering an area of 780 hectares. It is intensively managed both scientifically and through experiential education and is accessible to visitors via several nature trails. Today's bog area is the remnant of a post-glacial lake that gradually filled with sediment and mineral deposits after the melting of the Rhine glacier, thus partially silting up. This gave rise to fens and, in some places, raised bogs above them. These areas were characterized by depth and wetness and were unsuitable for permanent human settlement. However, mineral infiltration also led to the formation of permanent islands on which the first permanent human settlements emerged. The core of the area, however, remained uninhabited and was considered uncultivable, inferior land. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pfrunger-Burgweiler_Ried
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From the almost 39 meter high Bannwaldturm you have a sensational panorama over the large moorland area of the Pfrunger-Burgweiler Ried nature reserve. Highly recommended, don't be put off by the 219 steps.
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The perfect place to take a break with benches and wonderful peace
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From the tower's observation deck, you have a magnificent 360° view of the reed bed. The tower features numerous wooden statues of local animals. There's also a small room with information panels at the bottom right of the tower base.
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Among the most popular natural monuments is the Bannwald Tower, offering a magnificent 360-degree panoramic view of the reed bed. Another must-see spot is the Five-sided Pond, a vital habitat for waterfowl and a prime spot for bird watching. Visitors also appreciate the Hundsche Teiche viewing platform, which provides views of the moorland lakes created by peat extraction.
The Pfrunger-Burgweiler Ried is primarily defined by its extensive moorland, which is the second-largest coherent moorland area in southwest Germany. It features numerous lakes, many formed from past peat mining, and is a significant rewetting project. A geologically interesting feature is the European Watershed, where water drains north into the Danube and south into the Rhine.
The Ried is a crucial habitat for rare animal and plant species. It's particularly known for its diverse birdlife, with around 210 different species, including the common snipe, black redstart, whinchat, and black stork. Amphibians are also abundant, especially around areas like the Frog Crossing on the Old Railway Embankment. Since 2005, a beaver population has also been established in the area.
Yes, several natural monuments are well-suited for families. The Five-sided Pond and Hundsche Teiche viewing platform are great for bird and animal watching. The Frog Crossing on the Old Railway Embankment is particularly interesting for children due to the many small frogs. The Eulenbruck Raised Bog Observation Platform also offers an accessible way to experience the moorland with information boards.
The Pfrunger-Burgweiler Ried offers unique experiences throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for observing diverse bird species and lush flora. Autumn brings beautiful colors to the landscape. Even in winter, the Ried is a popular spot, offering a tranquil and mystical atmosphere, especially from viewing platforms like the Hundsche Teiche viewing platform.
Yes, the Pfrunger-Burgweiler Ried features well-laid out paths, including wooden walkways and several viewing platforms designed to allow visitors to explore the sensitive ecosystem while protecting it. The Hundsche Teiche viewing platform and the Eulenbruck Raised Bog Observation Platform are examples of such facilities, often equipped with benches and information boards.
The Pfrunger-Burgweiler Ried is an excellent starting point for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy extensive hiking on trails that wind through the moorland, or explore the area by road cycling. For more detailed routes, you can find options like easy hikes or road cycling routes in the region.
Yes, there are numerous hiking trails that allow you to explore the natural monuments. For example, an easy loop from Laubbach takes you past the Five-sided Pond and towards the Bannwaldturm Parking Area. Other trails offer views of Nillsee or wind through the Pfrunger Ried Wetlands. You can find more options in the hiking guide for Pfrunger-Burgweiler Ried.
Absolutely. The region offers various cycling routes, including scenic road cycling paths. You can find routes of different difficulties, such as the 'Illmenseer Straße Birch Avenue loop from Wilhelmsdorf' or the 'Mill Path – Härle's Farm Café loop from Burgweiler'. For a comprehensive overview, check out the road cycling guide for Pfrunger-Burgweiler Ried.
Visitors frequently praise the magnificent 360° views from the Bannwald Tower and the opportunity for bird watching at spots like the Five-sided Pond. The tranquility and relaxation offered by the mystical moorland landscape are highly valued. Many also enjoy the adventure trails and the chance to observe rare wildlife, such as the numerous small frogs at the Frog Crossing.
The Bannwald Tower is an impressive 38.8-meter-high wooden observation tower. After ascending 219 steps, its observation deck provides a magnificent 360-degree panoramic view of the entire Pfrunger-Burgweiler Ried. The tower's base also houses informational panels and numerous wooden statues of local animals, enhancing the visitor experience with educational insights into the surrounding nature.
While specific parking details vary by location, there are designated parking areas near popular natural monuments. For instance, there is parking available close to the Bannwald Tower, which serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the surrounding reed bed and trails.


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