A journey to nature in the Bliesgau Biosphere Reserve
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When you hear the title “Winner in the Advanced Category of the Federal Sustainable Tourism Destination Competition,” you probably think of large and well-known regions. But no, first place here goes to Saarland, more precisely to the Bliesgau biosphere, which was able to prevail against Saxon Switzerland and the Allgäu. Saarland as an entire federal state has been certified as a sustainable travel destination by TourCert since 2018. Bliesgau is named after the small river Blies, which runs through the corridors. Numerous orchards and species-rich orchid meadows as well as old beech forests characterize the gentle hilly landscape. Different habitats intertwine in a very small space and provide a home for numerous rare animal and plant species. In early summer, almost half of all orchid species found in Germany can be found here. Welcome to the region where the clock seems to turn slower.
Small region, big stories
In southern Saarland, in the heart of the Saarpfalz district, lies the picturesque UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Bliesgau. This reserve received UNESCO recognition in 2007. There are numerous sleepy villages in the southern part of the nature reserve, while the northern part of the Bliesgau is more urban. No matter where you look, the love of their homeland is deeply rooted in the local population. You know each other and take life lightly, always with the necessary amount of deceleration. The UNESCO biosphere reserve not only preserves the traditional cultural landscape and the region's special biodiversity, but is also strongly committed to climate protection and the development of regional value chains.
On an environmentally friendly discovery tour by bus
A particularly comfortable and environmentally friendly way to explore this breathtaking region is the Biosphere Bus 501. This bus connects the city of Homburg with Kleinblittersdorf and traverses the entire Bliesgau Biosphere Reserve. But the best thing about it is that it is not only a practical means of transport, but also offers the opportunity to explore the treasures of the Bliesgau at your own pace. The specially bookable biosphere safaris also use the local buses to go on a journey of discovery to the most exciting places in the region together with local experts.
The main thing is good
Anyone who travels a lot knows the importance of good food. Agriculture and the art of enjoyment play a prominent role in Bliesgau. The people of Bliesgau are real region lovers! It couldn't be more regional than here: behind the idea of the biosphere lies the ecological and local chain of enjoyment. Lentils, vegetables, grains and fruit – everything can be found in the fields. Processing and finishing also take place in Bliesgau. This means fewer transport routes, ecological advantages and enjoyment without a guilty conscience knowing where it comes from. The local gastronomy reflects this philosophy, with numerous restaurants committed to using regional ingredients and placing the highest value on taste, freshness and quality. They network throughout Saarland under the banner of “Enjoy the Saarland region“To ensure that regional, traditional and innovative things come to the table as a fresh culinary experience. Together they are committed to inspiring people with the quality of their cuisine and regional products. The Hotel Restaurant Bellevue, Gräfinthaler Hof and Landgasthaus Wintringer Hof are just some of the cozy inns that take you on culinary journeys of discovery.
Where quality comes from our own seeds
Auf dem Berghof Einöd The tradition of sustainable agriculture is lived at the highest level. The special thing about Berghof Einöd is the fact that they grow what they own and then process it in their own oil mill. An absolute highlight is the “Bliesgau Ölweg”. This educational trail leads through the middle of the Berghof's cultivation areas and offers the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of oil production. The vegan icing on the cake: At the end of the tour, tastings of the exquisite oils and mustards are on the agenda.
But even if the production alone is a fascinating experience, there is much more to the region. Together for sustainability and inclusion – that’s what it stands for Neukahlenberger Hof. The Demeter company is run by an institution that supports the disabled. More than 250 people from different countries and cultures have been living and working together inclusively here for over 60 years. The farm also produces a wide range of organic products from its own production. The organic products offered include cheese, yoghurt, jam, baked goods, meat and sausage products as well as vegetables and seedlings. This diversity is not only impressive, but also shows how commitment to inclusion and sustainability can be combined.
Lace up your shoes and get in or get on the saddle
The Bliesgau offers a true paradise for hiking and cycling. Numerous well-signposted paths lead through breathtaking landscapes, along idyllic river banks and through dense forests. One of the most impressive hiking routes is the Kirkel table tour. Over 8,5 kilometers, the tour crosses dense forests and passes spectacular red sandstone formations. You can easily get to the start of the table tour by train from Kirkel train station or by bus line 547. All start and finish points of the nine stages of the Bliessteig long-distance hiking trail can also be easily reached by public transport, so that the individual stages can also be enjoyed as half-day tours.
Stay where comfort and nature conservation go hand in hand
At the end of every eventful day, accommodation is of course a crucial component. There are numerous partner companies in the network in the Bliesgau Biosphere “Sustainable travel destination Saarland”who are actively committed to sustainable development in tourism. An outstanding example is the “Glamping Resorts Biosphere Bliesgau“. These resorts are located in a quiet location in the middle of nature and offer a unique camping adventure with guaranteed comfort. The Guesthouse Neumühle in the Mandelbachtal is part of a historic courtyard and offers cozy rooms that are furnished with great attention to detail. The owners of this guest house are partners of the Bliesgau Biosphere Reserve and attach particular importance to the economical use of natural resources. If relaxation and wellness are at the top of your list, then this is it PETERS Hotel & Spa in Homburg the ideal choice. Located directly on the picturesque Jägersburger Weiher, this hotel offers a variety of amenities.
The beautiful things in life
The anticipation of a trip that combines nature, culture and sustainability is simply indescribable. So pack your bags, feel the anticipation and get ready for an unforgettable, sustainable adventure in Bliesgau.
© Photos: Little Owl: Günter Kopp, Biosphere bus: Eike Dubois, Kirkel rock path: Marcus Gloger, Fruit box: Markus Simatis, Wintringer Hof: Erich Jöckel, beehives in the field: Eike Dubois, Bliesgau rapeseed landscape: Eike Dubois, Bliesgau fog landscape: Klaus Peter Kappest, aerial view of the biosphere: Kevin Ehm, glamping: Manuela Meyer, Berghof Einöd: Daniel Spohn
2 Comments
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Peter
I gave my daughter a toolbox when she was 10 and showed her how to repair things herself so that she didn't have to throw them away.
Then she started mending and recycling her clothes too. We planted an allotment garden and made our own jam and grew fresh vegetables. So I tried to make the topic of sustainability tangible for her. Now she is writing a paper about sustainable tourism and I am learning from her. She will be 18 at the beginning of next month and I would like to surprise her with a sustainable trip. Get out of everyday life again before graduating from high school. So thank you for the great inspiration! I'm sure glamping is something for us too.
Susanne
This sounds perfect for my next vacation. I need to get out of everyday life and into the countryside again. Hiking and minimalism as keywords with environmental protection in focus. Glamping fits in perfectly. Thank you for the inspiration!