The extensive forest area "Unterforst" north of Möhlin is a former floodplain, but since the Rhine was dammed it is no longer flooded. Among other things, it is home to the "Haumättli" nature reserve, but also a Roman lookout, a Roman watchtower and more. The former gravel pit Burstel near Feldhof, for example, is located a little to the south outside the forest and has been converted into the nature reserve "Burstel". The southern part of the reserve is open to visitors. Right next to it is the Breitsee nature reserve.

Pioneer plants that can spread quickly grow on the ruderal areas. Yellow-bellied toads reproduce in the shallow pools, which warm up quickly and dry out regularly. In the forest, the path to the Rhine leads alternately through coniferous forest, mixed deciduous forest and over freshly afforested windthrow areas. Soon you come to the "Haumättli" nature reserve, which is periodically flooded and offers floodplain forest-like conditions.

Floodplains are among the most species-rich habitats, but they have become rare due to the straightening and construction of rivers. Great crested grebes, among others, breed in this area. With a little luck, kingfishers, orioles and wagtails can also be seen here and in the Bachtele nature reserve further south.

Tour

The starting point is at the Feldhof car park near the Burstel nature reserve. Before entering the forest, turn left and follow the edge of the forest for a few metres. At the next junction, the Cholwägli branches off, which leads on the main path across the Möhlinforst to the Rhine. From the picnic area on the Rhine, turn left, more or less along the Rhine back towards Möhlin. At the Möhlin Rhyburg fish guild, a path leads away from the Rhine in a southerly direction and you return to the "Burstel" gravel pit. If you want to extend the walk, you can also include the "Hausmättli" nature reserve on your loop.

The walk is suitable for buggies, but not for wheelchairs.

Refreshments

At the Cholplatz hut and at the front of the Rhine, visitors will find large fireplaces and picnic areas. Möhlin also offers a small but fine selection of restaurants. For example, the nearby Möhlin Rhyburg Fishermen's Guild is highly recommended.

Other greenbelt sites in the vicinity

Castle Beuggen

Gwild

Characteristics

Arrival

Möhlin railway station is easily accessible by public transport. By car or bike, you can get from the centre of Möhlin eastwards to the car park at the "Burstel" nature reserve (Feldhof), where you can park your car.

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