Turquoise Lake in NSG Waldhügel

A nature reserve has emerged from a former limestone quarry in Rheine, Westphalia. The protected area on the Rheine forest hill contains beech forests, excavation lakes, dry grassland and quarry edges, where great fossils can be found. Fossilized shells, snails or ammonites testify that the rock that makes up the mountain formed the bottom of a sea in the Cretaceous period. Guided tours are often offered in the adjacent Middel quarry, which is still active. There are many fossils to be found there - a special experience for children!In addition, the forest hill Rheine is now an important biotope. Almost 1000 plant species occur on the site, over 50 of which are endangered. This makes the forest hill one of the most species-rich natural landscapes in North Rhine-Westphalia. The southern slopes of the former quarry have an almost Mediterranean climate, which is why plants are found here that are otherwise found much further south.

Biologists were able to find a good dozen different species of wild roses and orchids here, including species that, like the small-flowered rose (rosa micrantha), are on the red list of species threatened with extinction.The fact that so many plant species occur here is mainly due to the fact that the forest hill consists of a number of small, very different biotopes. Different forms of deciduous forest, extensively cultivated grassland, a clean lake and newly overgrown limestone areas lie right next to each other. In order to preserve the ecologically valuable dry grassland, sheep and goats graze here regularly.

Always an experience. Beautiful views and great nature.