Major Nature Reserves
More than 17 percent of the area of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern is covered by major nature reserves. The main purpose of a nature reserve is to protect nature and the environment. National parks, biosphere reserves and nature parks are all defined as major nature reserves.
Each of the different protected categories aims at a very special target: In national parks nature is largely left to itself. The bizarre chalk cliffs of the island of Rügen, solely shaped by the wind and the water, are a well-known example. Biosphere reserves and nature parks are, however, historically developed cultural landscapes whose present appearance is the result of their utilisation by man over centuries.
These protected areas have one thing in common: Due to the beauty of their landscapes and their natural wealth, they offer ideal conditions for recreation and relaxation not only to local residents but to tourists as well. In those major nature reserves a comprehensive network of hiking and biking trails awaits discovery by active vacationers. Splendid panoramas, quietness and the multifarious wildlife will be an extremely rewarding experience.
The visitors’ centres in the major nature reserves are devoted to providing education to young and old about the environment. The offers are not only informative but also exciting. Here our natural environment can be seen from new perspectives. Furthermore, ways for man to treat the environment with more consideration and greater respect are presented. Nature lovers will also find numerous observation points and many information boards.