Birkensee (Natural Monument)

As at the beginning of the 19th century on the bottom of an abandoned Rätsandsteinbruchs the lying under the lake rock layer by natural cementation - so-called Ortsteinbildung - was impermeable to water, this almost silted, moor-like lake formed.
Located on the highest point of the Schönbuch, the Birkensee was designated as a natural monument due to its rare for the Schönbuch plant communities.

With its surroundings, it is one of the most interesting botanical areas in the Nature Park (low-lying Bärlapp, broadleaf and narrow-leaved cotton grass, cranberry, heather, various peat moss and the round-leaved sundew). Unfortunately, some plants have already disappeared.

The bulten, small hills within the bog area, which are drier than the surrounding area and are therefore often overgrown with heather, suffered from the footsteps of visitors who ran wildly into the moor. Therefore, a few years ago, the Tübingen-Bebenhausen Forestry Service laid down a path made of bark mulch and a truncheon trellis. Since then, the situation has improved significantly.

Beautiful scenery and for the region a small pearl of nature with unusual vegetation. If you follow the footbridge and continue straight ahead, a trailer leads through the forest and small gorge to Ziegelweiher. Highly recommended!

Beautiful raised bog - depending on the water level always new perspectives