Switzerland Protected Landscape Atlas: Mapping Scenic Conservation Areas and Regional Parks

Wildnispark Zürich

Swiss nature reserve located in the Canton of Zürich

Wildnispark Zürich manages roughly twelve square kilometers of land, bridging the gap between urban density and wild forest environments. The site includes the Sihlwald, a large tract of mixed beech forest, and the Langenberg wildlife area. This atlas entry covers the park geography, its role within the Mittelland forest corridor, and the distribution of protected zones that support native European species.

Diemtigtal

Mapped valley geography and mountain terrain context

Explore the structured geography of Diemtigtal, a regional nature park in the Bernese Oberland. This valley landscape is defined by its enclosed U-shaped topography, the Niesenkette skyline, and a network of traditional settlements nested between mountain ridges and alpine streams. Gain insight into the protected boundaries and the distinctive terrain of this Swiss Alpine region.

Aarelandschaft bei Klingnau

Wetland geography, alluvial forests, and floodplain corridors

The Aarelandschaft bei Klingnau preserves a unique riverine mosaic where the Aare River meets the Rhine in northern Aargau. This protected landscape encompasses the Klingnauer Stausee reservoir, rich alluvial forests, and remnant oxbows. It serves as a vital migratory node for avian populations and provides a structured look at the interplay between human-engineered power infrastructure and protected natural river channels.

Stausee Niederried

Mapped alluvial terrain and sandstone cliffs in the Canton of Bern.

Stausee Niederried functions as a vital protected landscape, blending a historic hydroelectric reservoir with a four-kilometer riverine floodplain. The area is characterized by high geomorphic contrast, ranging from the vast Runtigenfluh molasse cliff to critical riparian marshes and orchid-rich pine forests. This entry provides a structured look at the park boundaries, geological features, and the wider fluvial mosaic found near the confluence of the Aare and the Saane.

Greina – Piz Medel

High-alpine plateau, glacier forelands, and mountain peaks.

The Greina, Piz Medel protected area is defined by the contrast between its broad, level plateau and the surrounding ring of summits in the Adula Alps. This high-altitude region holds nationally important floodplains, diverse dry meadows, and active glacial basins that cross the European watershed, providing a profound study in alpine terrain and environmental conservation.

Aarelandschaft zwischen Thun und Bern

Mapping the floodplain remnants of the Aare river corridor

The Aarelandschaft zwischen Thun und Bern protects a unique corridor of riparian forest, wet meadows, and springs along the Aare river. Situated in the Kanton Bern, this landscape retains evidence of historic river engineering alongside ongoing restoration programs that reconnect vital lowland ecosystems. It stands as a significant natural corridor in a densely populated region, marked by its molasse hills and varied alluvial topography.

Glaziallandschaft Lorze – Sihl mit Höhronenkette und Schwantenau

A study of glacial formations and protected Swiss ecosystems.

Trace the moraine-dominated terrain and river gorges of this nationally recognized protected landscape. From the drumlin fields near Menzingen to the rare peatland habitats of the Schwantenau, this area offers a comprehensive look at the geological and hydrological history of the Swiss Pre-Alps.

Linkes Bielerseeufer

Protected Jura lakeshore and vineyard terrain

Investigate the precise boundaries and varied micro-landscape of Linkes Bielerseeufer. This protected area showcases a dramatic rise from Lake Biel into the Jura range, encompassing karst topography, historic dry-stone terraces, and diverse forest ecosystems within the Canton of Bern.

Aareknie Wolfwil-Wynau

Mapping dynamic river bends and lowland floodplains in the Swiss Mittelland.

Aareknie Wolfwil-Wynau preserves a rare, non-engineered river reach where the Aare cuts through molasse rock. The area is defined by its active gravel bars, rapids, and federally protected floodplain habitats. This site provides a critical look at how lowland river ecosystems function alongside historic cultural landmarks like the medieval church at Wynau.