Highlight • Natural
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The Lily Pad Wetlands in Wollmatinger Ried describe a beautiful and ecologically vital area within the Wollmatinger Ried – Untersee – Gnadensee nature reserve, located on the German shores of Lake Constance. This expansive protected wetland, sitting at an elevation of 445 metres, stretches from the Seerhein river west of Konstanz to the island of Reichenau and the eastern Gnadensee near Allensbach-Hegne. It is renowned as the largest and most significant nature reserve on the German side of Lake Constance,…
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Wollmatinger Ried - Untersee - Gnadensee
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July 5, 2025
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Details
Informations
Elevation 440 m
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Wednesday 25 March
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Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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The Wollmatinger Ried is well-connected by public transport. You can take a bus from Konstanz to Wollmatingen or Reichenau, which will bring you close to various entry points of the reserve. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient stops near the NABU-Bodenseezentrum or the Reichenauer Damm.
Yes, designated parking areas are available, particularly near the NABU-Bodenseezentrum at Am Wollmatinger Ried 20, Reichenau, which serves as a central information point. Additional parking can be found along the Reichenauer Damm, though spaces can fill up quickly, especially during peak season or on weekends.
While many paths and observation platforms are freely accessible, the main, more sensitive parts of the nature reserve are often only accessible with guided tours. These tours are offered by the NABU-Bodenseezentrum and provide expert insights while ensuring the protection of the delicate ecosystem. Information paths like the "Gottlieber Weg" are open for self-guided exploration.
The terrain in Wollmatinger Ried is generally flat and features smooth trails and clean roads, making it suitable for leisurely walks and easy hikes. The elevation is around 445 meters, with minimal changes, so most trails are considered easy and accessible for a wide range of visitors.
Dogs are generally permitted on designated paths within the Wollmatinger Ried, but must be kept on a leash at all times to protect the sensitive wildlife and plant species. Access to certain highly protected areas or guided tours might be restricted for dogs. Always look for local signage regarding pet policies.
Yes, the Wollmatinger Ried is very family-friendly. Its accessible paths, smooth trails, and flat terrain make it ideal for families with young children and strollers. There are engaging opportunities to connect with nature, and observation platforms offer safe spots for birdwatching.
Beyond areas where lily pads flourish, the Wollmatinger Ried is rich in diverse ecosystems. You can observe extensive reed beds, patchwork meadows, and riparian forests. It's home to rare plant species like the Siberian Iris and 22 different orchid species, along with approximately 290 bird species, making it a significant birdwatching destination.
Yes, there are several excellent observation platforms. One notable platform is integrated into the ruins of Schopflen castle along the Reichenauer Damm, offering panoramic views of the Ermatinger Becken and Gnadensee. Another platform is located near the Hegne campsite, both ideal for observing the rich birdlife.
For optimal wildlife viewing, particularly birdwatching, visiting during the early morning hours or late afternoon/early evening is recommended. Birds are most active during these times, and the light conditions are often ideal for observation and photography. The reserve is vital as a resting, breeding, and overwintering ground for a quarter of all Lake Constance waterfowl, making it rewarding year-round.
While the immediate nature reserve focuses on conservation, you can find cafes and restaurants in the nearby towns of Konstanz, Wollmatingen, and on Reichenau Island. These offer various dining options for visitors before or after exploring the wetlands.
Given the wetland environment, comfortable walking shoes or waterproof boots are advisable, especially after rain. Dress in layers suitable for the weather, and consider bringing binoculars for birdwatching, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent, particularly during warmer months.
The Wollmatinger Ried is the largest and most important nature reserve on the German side of Lake Constance, playing a crucial role in conservation. It protects diverse ecosystems, including reed beds and shallow water zones, which are vital habitats for numerous rare and endangered plant and animal species, especially waterfowl. The NABU-Bodenseezentrum actively manages the area and offers educational tours to raise awareness for its protection.