Adjacent to Rothenstein is the Spitzenberg-Borntal area, which has been a nature reserve since 2003.

Just 19 years ago, the Jena armored unit of the Red Army fired here almost every evening and night in all weathers. All the barracks, shelters and watchtowers have since been demolished. Only a few concrete surfaces remain as a reminder of this time.

Fortunately, the entire area remained largely natural during the time it was used as a training ground. The decades-long avoidance of fertilization and the removal of shrubs and trees, with the exception of the immediate firing area, allowed a biotope to develop that is unique far beyond Thuringia.

Birds in particular have quickly colonized the area. Today, ornithologists are once again counting a number of very rare animals that are no longer found in other areas due to the settlement density and various disturbances, e.g. quails, stonechats, nightjars and the wryneck.

Of the 400 plant species recorded, 37 alone are protected, including the forest hyacinth, the purple orchid, the lady's slipper orchid, the common hen's tongue, the bee orchid and the burnt orchid. Small springs, ponds and boggy areas are once again home to snakes, newts and toads and many rare insects can be found. You will find a particularly large number of specimens at the edge of the forest on the right as seen from Rothenstein.

The entire steppe-like area, which covers around 540 hectares, is very scenic. Nature lovers can walk here for hours, discover rare things with binoculars and enjoy the peace and quiet and healthy air.

However, please always remember that you may only walk on the designated paths in a nature reserve and - as a note - also for safety reasons. As far as we know, the former firing range has not yet been completely cleared of old ammunition. Dogs are not permitted.

The NSG can be reached via the paved road to the right of SCONTO-Möbel. You can drive up to the building of the shooting club. You may park there. Driving on the grounds is prohibited.

Heinz Arlitt
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