As of: February 2, 2024, 5:27 p.m
By: Franziska Kaindl
Comments
Press
Split
Germany's nature reserves are under special protection - which is why hikers also have to pay attention to strict rules when out and about.
Simply go outside, stroll through the forests, climb mountains or cruise across the rivers on a rubber dinghy: time out in nature is often the best way to combat the stress of everyday life for those looking for relaxation.
Just like people, the environment also needs a break from external interference - which is why around 6.5 percent of the country's area is considered a nature reserve.
According to Section 23 of the Federal Nature Conservation Act, the areas serve the preservation, development and restoration of habitats and are therefore particularly protected areas.
Which doesn't mean that entering is generally forbidden - but stricter rules apply when hiking in a nature reserve.
What is forbidden in nature reserves in Germany
In the nature reserve, hikers must pay attention to special rules.
© Stefan Schurr/Imago
There are almost 9,000 nature reserves in Germany - these include, for example, the Allgäu High Alps, the Lüneburg Heath or the North Frisian Wadden Sea.
Anyone who wants to hike in these places must adhere to the Federal Nature Conservation Act or state legislation.
It is generally forbidden to set up a tent or caravan, make noise, leave rubbish or light a fire.
Anyone who fails to comply will face high fines, depending on the severity of the offence.
You don't want to miss any news and tips about vacation and travel?
Then sign up for the travel newsletter from our partner Merkur.de.
Fines in nature reserves can be high
In Bavarian nature reserves, for example, according to the catalog of fines, it costs hikers up to 2,500 euros if they illegally leave their garbage behind or light a fire.
Depending on the region, anyone who uses wild-growing plants and damages them, rips them out or digs them up can also expect a hefty fine - in Thuringia's catalog of fines it ranges up to 10,000 euros.
Sometimes it is enough to enter an area outside the paths.
This costs up to 350 euros in Baden-Württemberg and a maximum of 250 euros in Thuringia.
In general, hikers should avoid activities that could harm the natural and animal world in the protected areas.
In the worst case, depending on the offense and federal state, a fine of up to 50,000 euros is possible, as
Bussgeldkatalog.org
informs.