Between Niedersfeld and the Kahler Asten, a piece of landscape opens up that is unparalleled in North Rhine-Westphalia: The Neue Hagen near Niedersfeld is the largest high heath in NRW. At an altitude of around 800 meters, there is an open, extensive area of heathland here, which, with its barren beauty, clear air and impressive views, is almost reminiscent of Nordic fell landscapes - a rare natural phenomenon in the middle of the otherwise forested Sauerland.
Unique flora at high altitude
The high heath is a remnant of centuries of grazing and plaggen farming. Today, it is strictly protected because it is home to rare plants: in late summer, the heather turns the area a deep purple. In spring, arnica, bilberries and cotton grasses can be found growing in the damp areas. Mountain broom, narrow-leaved cottongrass and marsh violets are among the botanical peculiarities that are favored by the altitude.
Habitat for specialized animals
The open heathland attracts numerous animal species that are dependent on such habitats. Typical examples are the meadow pipit, tree pipit, woodlark and the rare great grey shrike. Reptiles such as the common lizard and many specialized insects such as heath grasshoppers and blue butterflies are also at home here.
