From garbage mountain to green natural landscape with a wide view over southern Hesse
The Odenwaldklub Groß-Gerau, led by nature conservationist Thomas Arnold, on a diverse hike around the Oberwaldberg —the highest elevation in the Groß-Gerau district. A total of 19 hikers in the tour along the Huguenot and Waldensian Trail cultural long-distance trail and witnessed the impressive transformation of a former garbage dump into a biodiverse natural landscape.
The hiking route initially led along wide paths past an idyllic water lily pond and the expansive Oberwaldsee lake , before continuing in single file along narrow paths along Schnepfensee lake. Numerous information panels provided insights into the history of the Waldensians and the diversity of flora and fauna in the area.
Nature experience with a view
the Oberwaldberg rises 145 meters above sea level and offers a sweeping panoramic view across southern Hesse to the Frankfurt skyline. Until 1991, waste from the Groß-Gerau district was dumped here – today, the former landfill is an example of successful renaturation . Through the planting of trees and hedges, nature has largely reclaimed the area.
Social rest in Mönchbruch
After about six kilometers, the hiking group stopped for a relaxing final rest at the Mönchbruch Müllerstube restaurant . Trail leader Beate Bolbach thanked Thomas Arnold for the interesting tour and the many new insights this hike offered.
(Gross-Gerau-Red/OWK)
Featured image: = Conservation officer Thomas Arnold welcomes visitors and introduces the history of the garbage mountain. Photo: OWK
