Beaver and Salmon Without Borders project

The circular ride across the tri-border area gives you the opportunity to get to know the Rhine in all its facets. From the nature reserves Krebsbachtal, Rhine Island and Petite Camargue Alsacienne, to the tributaries Wiese and Kander, and once across the cities Basel, Huningue, and Weil am Rhein – discover true treasures, nature in unexpected places and numerous animals and plants in diverse habitats!

At the eleven stations of the route, you will receive exciting information about the Rhine and its two native inhabitants, beaver and salmon. The history of these two animal species in the tri-border area is directly connected with that of the great river. Both the "builder" beaver and the agile migratory fish salmon felt very comfortable in the original floodplain landscape of the Rhine with its many side arms and natural flood areas. Due to the straightening and construction of the river in the 19th century and intense hunting, the habitats of the animals were lost and populations were so decimated that beaver and salmon were long considered extinct in the Upper Rhine region. Only recently, extensive renaturation measures, reintroduction projects, and the construction of migration aids have created a situation in which renewed expansion is possible. On your circular ride, you will experience first-hand how our two friends salmon and beaver disappeared and how today an attempt is being made to realize a coexistence of humans and animals. A varied and versatile route for all bicycle enthusiasts, nature lovers, and animal friends!