Bannriet-Spitzmäder nature reserve

Name: Bannriet-Spitzmäder nature reserve
Telephone: +41 71 750 08 30

The unique landscape, the interest in peat cutting, the species-rich flora and fauna, the diverse observation opportunities or simply a healthy dose of curiosity - there are many reasons to drop by Schollenriet.

The Schollen Mill is a former peat factory. Peat was extracted in its vicinity and processed into sphagnum and special soils in the Schollenmühle. The Schollenmühle is located in the middle of the Bannriet-Spitzmäder nature reserve. Peat extraction has left a varied landscape relief here. Exciting nature observations are also possible outside the Schollenmühle area. The protected area is reserved for plants and animals. Excavated, flooded, silted up, peated and meliorated - a wide variety of forces and actors have shaped today's Riet. The diversity of animals and plants in the 53-hectare nature reserve is overwhelming. Flower meadows and variegated fallows bring color to the reed landscape and are a land of milk and honey for flower-visiting insects. Groups of shrubs structure the landscape and provide retreats for animals. On the occasion of the 200th anniversary of the canton of St.Gallen in 2003, an observation tower was built on the edge of the Spitzmäder nature reserve on the municipal border between Altstätten and Oberriet. The extensive view of the Rhine valley and the accompanying mountain panorama, as well as the many opportunities for observing the animal world, make a visit to the architecturally successful observation tower worthwhile in any weather.