Natural monuments around Eberbach are found within the Neckartal-Odenwald Nature Park, offering a diverse landscape of forests, river valleys, and geological formations. The region is characterized by its position in the picturesque Neckar valley, providing varied terrain for exploration. These natural sites offer opportunities for scenic hikes and immersion in the Odenwald landscape.
Last updated: November 4, 2026
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at low Rhine levels, you can walk to these islands in the Rhine with dry feet. At historical levels like in the summer of 2026, a real experience.
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The 285.5-hectare area of Au am Rhein and Elchesheim-Illingen has been designated a nature reserve under identification number 2.134 since December 19, 1990. It is the largest section of the old Rhine channel in the transition zone between the bifurcation and meandering areas. The reserve extends west and northwest of the town of Illingen, directly along the westward-flowing Rhine. The Illingen gravel pit lake is located within the reserve.
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From October 2014, the tomato islands were redesigned for around two million euros. The construction work was part of a nature conservation project that was partly financed with funds from the EU funding program LIFE+. A ditch was created at Auer Köpfle through which Rhine water is channeled into the Illinger Altrhein. In addition, two channels were created along the right bank of the Rhine, for which the existing groynes were divided. The excavated material was used to raise the islands. The construction work created three islands that provide gravel breeding areas that are safe from predators such as foxes. https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tomateninseln
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Just 200 years ago there were numerous islands on the Rhine that kept changing when the water was high. With the regulation of the Rhine, however, these were largely lost and with them breeding areas for various waterfowl. As part of the LIFE+ project "Rheinauen bei Rastatt", three islands were created at the mouth of the Illinger Altrhein, on which waterfowl can stay, search for food and breed undisturbed. http://www2.lubw.baden-wuerttemberg.de/public/abt2/dokRepository/upload/10_12/919001000152/nreservat_auer_k_pfle_-_illinger_altrhein_-_motherner_w_rth_-_umgestaltung_kohlkopf_und_tomateninsel__infotafel_.pdf
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just beautiful here. There is also a bench with a beautiful view.
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the southern Murg side (corresponds to this highlight) is the beautiful side of the Murg estuary. You can only get here on foot or by bike. There is also a road on the other side of the Murg.
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The region offers several distinct geological formations. You can visit the Katzenbuckel, an extinct volcano and the highest point in the Odenwald, offering panoramic views from its summit tower. Another impressive site is the Margaretenschlucht, a dramatic gorge carved into Odenwald Bunter Sandstone, featuring eight waterfall steps and recognized as a geological natural monument. The Ohrsberg, a distinctive hilltop, showcases the Neckar river's geological development.
Yes, several natural monuments are great for families. The Old Oak Tree is a family-friendly highlight, an impressive 170-year-old landmark. The Margaretenschlucht also offers an engaging hiking trail with steel cable safeguards in steeper sections, where children might enjoy spotting fire salamanders. The Eberbach Arboretum provides beautiful, tranquil trails suitable for all ages to explore diverse plant species.
The Eberbach Arboretum is home to an impressive variety of over 200 different plant species from 17 geographical areas. It once housed Germany's tallest tree, a Douglas fir, which has grown to approximately 65 meters. You can also visit the Old Oak Tree, a distinctive 170-year-old landmark.
For expansive views, the Katzenbuckel offers panoramic vistas from its 18-meter-high sandstone lookout tower, extending to the Donnersberg on clear days. The Ohrsberg also features a tower providing magnificent views of Eberbach and the Neckar valley. Additionally, the Sauer Delta Nature Reserve provides great views of the water in many places.
While primarily natural, some sites have historical context. The Redoubt of the Lauter Line is a historical fortification that is also categorized as a natural monument, offering a glimpse into past military architecture within a natural setting.
The region around Eberbach is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking, cycling, and MTB trails. The Margaretenschlucht offers a dedicated hiking trail, and the Ohrsberg has an easily accessible circular trail. The Neckartal-Odenwald Nature Park, where many of these sites are located, provides extensive hiking and biking opportunities.
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural beauty and tranquility. For instance, the Confluence of the Murg and Rhine is noted as a nice place to sit, observe the contrasting water flows, and slow down. The Tomato Islands are loved for their beautiful stretch of beach on the Rhine, offering a unique natural experience.
Yes, the region is rich in water features. The Confluence of the Murg and Rhine is a prominent spot where two rivers meet. The Margaretenschlucht features a stream cascading down eight waterfall steps, including a 10-meter drop. The Tomato Islands are renatured islands in the Rhine, offering a unique riverine landscape and beach area. The Sauer Delta Nature Reserve also provides great views of the water.
The natural monuments can be enjoyed year-round. While spring and summer offer lush greenery and pleasant hiking conditions, the Margaretenschlucht is particularly captivating in winter, when its icy waterfalls create a glacier-like spectacle. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
Yes, the Margaretenschlucht has been a designated nature reserve since 1940. Additionally, Eberbach is centrally located within the Neckartal-Odenwald Nature Park and the Geo-Naturpark Bergstraße-Odenwald, both dedicated to preserving the diverse landscapes and geological history of the region. The Sauer Delta Nature Reserve is another significant protected area.


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