오르칸 로타르 기념석

The memorial stone is situated in the Naturpark Schönbuch, specifically in the district of Aichtal, within the Gemarkung Neuenhaus, Gewann Betzenberg. Its coordinates are approximately 48.61817 latitude and 9.16415 longitude, near Waldenbuch in the Böblingen district.

The memorial stone commemorates Hurricane Lothar, a devastating storm that swept across Western and Central Europe on December 26, 1999. In Naturpark Schönbuch alone, approximately one million cubic meters of timber were damaged. The monument, erected in 2000, serves as a solemn reminder of this catastrophic event and the forest's resilience.

The inscription reads: "Orkan Lothar, 26.12.99" followed by a quote attributed to Goethe: "Dem Himmel wachs' entgegen der Baum / der Erde Stolz / Ihr Wetter, Sturm und Regen verschont / das heilig Holz" which translates to: "To heaven grows the tree / the pride of the earth / Your weather, storm and rain spare / the sacred wood."

While there isn't one single designated trail named after the memorial stone, it is well-integrated into the extensive network of hiking and cycling paths within Naturpark Schönbuch. Many routes pass by or close to the monument, allowing visitors to incorporate it into longer excursions. You can find various routes on komoot that include this highlight.

The trails in Naturpark Schönbuch, including those leading to the memorial stone, are generally considered easy to moderate. The terrain is mostly forest paths and gravel roads, suitable for a wide range of fitness levels. While there might be gentle inclines, steep climbs are uncommon, making it accessible for casual hikers and cyclists.

Yes, the area is very family-friendly. The paths are generally well-maintained and suitable for children. There's also a small rest area with a table and benches directly opposite the memorial stone, perfect for a break or a picnic with the family.

Naturpark Schönbuch is generally dog-friendly, and dogs are welcome on the trails around the memorial stone. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially given the wildlife in the park and to respect other visitors.

There are several parking areas within Naturpark Schönbuch that provide access to the trails leading to the memorial stone. Specific parking spots near the monument itself might be limited, so it's advisable to check a map for designated parking lots within a reasonable walking distance. Arriving earlier in the day, especially on weekends, can help secure a spot.

The memorial stone itself is located within the beautiful forest landscape of Naturpark Schönbuch, which offers numerous natural attractions. While there isn't a specific panoramic viewpoint directly at the stone, the surrounding forest provides a serene natural setting. Exploring the wider park will reveal various scenic spots and diverse forest ecosystems.

Yes, the memorial stone can be visited year-round, including winter. A winter hike offers a unique, tranquil experience, especially if there's snow. However, be prepared for potentially muddy or icy conditions on the trails. Appropriate winter footwear and warm clothing are highly recommended for comfort and safety.

The memorial stone is located deep within the Naturpark Schönbuch, so there are no immediate cafes or restaurants right next to it. However, the nearby towns and villages surrounding the park, such as Waldenbuch or Aichtal, offer various dining options. It's best to plan for refreshments before or after your visit to the monument itself.

Reaching the memorial stone directly by public transport can be challenging as it's located within a nature park. Public transport typically serves the towns and villages bordering Naturpark Schönbuch. From there, you would likely need to undertake a longer hike or cycle to reach the monument. Checking local bus routes to the nearest park entrances and then planning your route on foot or bike is recommended.