The Ergolz estuary nature reserve, which extends above the Augst-Wyhlen power plant from the railway bridge to the mouth of the Rhine, is characterised by its shallow water zones, the extensive reed belt and the floodplain forest behind it. The structure of the Rhine bank has been ecologically upgraded, with copses planted in many places, gravel banks created and deadwood as shelter for fish and perching areas for birds. The Ergolz estuary has been dammed since the construction of the power plant in 1912 and an extensive siltation zone has therefore formed. This is characterised by water swathes and the protected large cattail. The reeds and the shallow water area are a popular feeding and breeding ground for birds such as the kingfisher and the tufted duck. Since 2004, the Ergolz has also been home to the beaver again after it was driven out by humans around 200 years ago. Thanks to renaturalisation and beaver ladders at the power stations, the beaver has been able to spread again throughout the entire High Rhine.

Tour

From the car park at the power station, a tour is signposted via the Ergolz estuary, the Augster Rhine ferry, the Altrhein-Wyhlen nature reserve and back via the power station. A walk along the Ergolz can also be combined with a visit to the Roman excavations of the ancient city of Augusta Raurica and the Rhine Baths, a Roman bathing establishment built around 260 BC.

Please note that the forest paths are only wheelchair accessible to a limited extent.

Refreshments

Kaiseraugst has some very good restaurants. There are also various shopping facilities. If the weather is nice, a picnic on the banks of the Rhine is a good idea. To the west of the Ergolz bridge, a small path runs upstream, makes a small detour and leads to the Hausmattweg. At the Ergolz miniature golf course, which itself has a small kiosk or restaurant, there is also a fire and picnic area.

Other greenbelt sites in the vicinity

Nature reserve Altrhein/Grenzach-Wyhlen

Gravel pit Wyhlen 

Leuengraben 

Further information

Here you will find further information from our partner regionatur.ch on the topic of 'Beaver and Otter', on the 'Ergolz River Landscape' and the locality of 'Augusta Raurica'.

Characteristics

Arrival

Arrival by public transport is possible via Kaiseraugst railway station. From there, the hiking trail is signposted in the direction of Augst power station. By car, it is best to park at the Augst-Wyhlen power station car park or at the Augst Boat Club. In the summer months, it is also possible to travel by boat with the Basler Personenschifffahrt.

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