The Kirchener Kopf is part of the nature reserve in the Petite Camargue Alsacienne. The old arm of the Rhine is now an extensive dry grassland, with shrub complexes and a floodplain forest. It is a rare example of a floodplain mosaic with wet and dry biotopes in small-scale alternation. The soil, consisting mostly of gravel and sand, can store only little water and nutrients, resulting in semi-arid and dry grasslands rich in orchids. On these, animals can be observed that in Switzerland are only found in Ticino, Valais or the Lake Geneva region.
Small paths lead through the patchy lawns, from which heat-loving grasshopper species, the praying mantis or the white wolverine snail can be observed. Butterflies such as the bloodcap or the crown vetch butterfly also colonise the sparse vegetation.
In the adjacent shrubbery of heat-loving bushes, the fluting song of the nightingale can be heard in summer. This spectacle alone is worth a trip to this part of the Petite Camargue Alsacienne (map).
Tour
The tour starts in Huningue, from where you follow the Canal de Huningue to the "Maison éclusière" lock north of Village-Neuf. For waterfowl watching, it is worth taking a break along the Rhine at the level of the Märkter dam. Otherwise, you can return to the original route along the Canal de Huningue via Kirchener Kopf.
Refreshments
There are no picnic or barbecue areas in the nature reserve, so bring your own food. However, there are numerous restaurants and shopping facilities in Huningue.
Other greenbelt sites in the vicinity
Further information
Here you will find further information from our partner regionatur.ch on the subject of 'rough grasslands' and the Petite Camargue Alsacienne nature reserve.
Bike tour, By the water, Excursion with animals, Excursion with children, Walk
Bicycle, Car, Public transport
Food must be brought along
Amphibians, Birds, Cultural landscape / meadows, Fishes, Forest, Insects, Reptiles, Specific fauna, Waters, Wetland
Tour
Buggies, Families, Groups (< 10 persons), Groups (> 10 persons), Pets, School classes, Walkers, Wheelchair
The journey is particularly worthwhile by bicycle, which can also be used to explore the Petite Camargue Alsacienne. The area is easily accessible by public transport. Car drivers should park their vehicles at the "Stade de l'Au" car park (sports ground).
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