The Eisweiher in Riehen is considered the "mother of all reserves" around Basel and was established in 1965. The area is very valuable today, especially as an amphibian spawning area of national importance, and is characterised by a variety of rare, protected as well as endangered animal and plant species. For example, water frogs, dragonflies and other insects as well as lizards, grass snakes and even the rare smooth snake can be observed. After becoming extinct in the 1980s, the green lurch known as the "weather frog" has been successfully reintroduced to the Eisweiher.

In the immediate vicinity of the Eisweiher, the Wiesenmatten pond reserve invites visitors to a stay. With the addition of the adjacent wetland, the entire biotope now consists of 29 ponds and pools. The large ponds provide an insight into the biocoenosis of standing waters.

By the way: before refrigerators existed, ice was mined at the Wässermatten in the area of today's Eisweiher near Riehen, which was then stored in cellars. The name of the reserve comes from this time.

Refreshments

It is possible to have a picnic on the benches of the raised seating area. From there you have a view over the whole reserve. There are also other picnic facilities at the Eisweiherhütte, which can be rented. There are several shops and restaurants in the village of Riehen.

Other greenbelt sites in the vicinity

Gravel pit Käppelin
Nature reserve Autal 
Ottilien Church 
Spittelmatthof 

Further information

Here you will find further information from our partner regionatur.ch on the topic of 'dragonflies' and the location of Lange Erlen.

Characteristics

Arrival

A cycle path leads from Basel or Lörrach along the railway line to Riehen railway station. The area can then be reached by bike via the network of paths in the Wiese plain. Those arriving by car can park their vehicles near Riehen station, in the centre multi-storey car park, or in the surrounding neighbourhood. Arriving by public transport is also possible.

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