Best attractions and places to see around Tennenloher Forest include a 934-hectare nature reserve east of Erlangen, Germany. This area is recognized as one of Southern Germany's largest sand ecosystems, home to over 1600 animal and plant species. The forest features diverse landscapes, including sandy habitats, heaths, and moor areas, alongside historical elements from its past as a military training ground. It offers various opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife observation.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
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Przewalski's horses, the last truly wild horses in the world, have lived in the Tennenlohe Forest near Erlangen since 2003. Since 2012, they have been supported by Peacock goats, a rare Swiss breed. Together, they ensure that the open sandy areas of the former military training ground do not become overgrown with shrubs – an important contribution to the preservation of rare habitats and biodiversity.
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The original wild horses are really very beautiful and always easy to recognize. They usually stay in groups. There are currently six horses.
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The area here is very beautiful. The enclosure is 100 hectares. Sometimes you have to search a bit until you find the six horses. However, the goats are usually easy to find.
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A large enclosure is available to the wild horses, in which they ensure that the open spaces are preserved.
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A large enclosure is available to the wild horses, in which they ensure that the open spaces are preserved.
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Bridge over the paddock. Watch out for snow and ice here as it can get quite slippery
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The Tennenloher Forst Nature Reserve is recognized as one of Southern Germany's largest sand ecosystems, featuring extensive sandy habitats, heaths, and valuable moor areas like the "Gründlacher Moor." These diverse landscapes support over 1600 animal and plant species, including rare flora such as peat mosses and sundew.
You can observe the rare Przewalski wild horses and peacock goats at the Przewalski Horse Enclosure, Tennenloher Forest. These animals play a crucial role in maintaining the sandy grasslands and heaths. For an elevated view, visit the Observation Bridge over the Paddocks, which offers a great vantage point.
Yes, the forest offers several family-friendly options. The wooden path through the heath leads through a swampy section of the wild horse enclosure, where children can spot frogs or lizards from footbridges. There's also an adventure trail mentioned in the region research that offers rich flora and fauna, and some accounts mention a bamboo tree house.
Tennenloher Forest has a significant past as a military training ground, used by the German Reichswehr from 1935 and later by the US Army until 1993. Evidence of this history can still be seen in former shooting ranges and the "Kugelfangwall" (bullet catch wall). Information boards throughout the area provide insights into this history.
Absolutely! Tennenloher Forest boasts well-maintained paths suitable for cycling and running. You can find various routes for different sports. For example, there are several easy gravel biking routes like the "Indian Gorge – Weiher Ponds Near Weiher loop" and cycling tours such as the "Historic Center of Tennenlohe – Gründlach Moor loop." Runners can explore moderate trails like the "Siebenstein Stone Cross loop." You can find more details on these activities in the gravel biking, cycling, and running guides for the area.
The sandy habitats, including sand grasslands and heaths, are crucial for the survival of many specialized plant and animal species. Typical plants found here include bristly grass, sand bellflowers, silver grass, dwarf flax, and adder's tongue. These areas are actively preserved by the grazing of Przewalski horses and peacock goats, preventing overgrowth and maintaining the unique steppe-like landscape.
Yes, Tennenloher Forest is generally dog-friendly, with many trails suitable for walks with your pet. For instance, the wooden path through the heath is listed as dog-friendly. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially near wildlife enclosures and to protect the sensitive ecosystems and rare species present in the nature reserve.
Yes, the Quellstein Sculpture by Dieter Erhard is a notable art installation in the forest. This sculpture symbolizes the connection between nature and art within the former military area, now transformed into a nature reserve, and is part of the Tennenlohe Sculpture Trail.
The extensive heathlands and pine forests of Tennenloher Forest provide essential habitats and breeding grounds for rare bird species. Keep an eye out for the Woodlark (Heidelerche) and the European Nightjar (Ziegenmelker). Other notable birds include the Eurasian Woodcock and Whinchat. Visitors have also reported seeing hoopoes and many other rare birds.
Visitors appreciate the Tennenloher Forst Nature Reserve for its diverse natural landscapes and the constant opportunity to discover something new. Many enjoy the chance to spot rare birds, insects, blindworms, and grass snakes. It's considered a great place to recharge and experience nature, with well-maintained paths for various activities.
Due to its history as a military training ground, visitors are strongly advised to stay strictly on designated paths. This is important to avoid potential danger from unexploded ordnance that might still be present off-trail. Information boards throughout the area also provide guidance on safety and ecological preservation.
Tennenloher Forest offers numerous well-maintained paths for hiking, including various circular trails that allow you to explore its diverse landscapes. You can find routes that take you through sandy habitats, past moor areas, and near the wild horse enclosure. For more detailed hiking options, you can explore the guide page for routes in the area.
While specific parking locations are not detailed in the provided data, the region research indicates that the forest is a popular spot for outdoor recreation, implying visitor access. It's common for nature reserves of this size to have designated parking areas at main entrances or trailheads. It is recommended to check local signage upon arrival for visitor parking regulations.


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