The tree of century in Mehlingen: an experience for the whole family!

The tree of century in Mehlingen: an experience for the whole family!

in the small community of Mehlingen, which counts around 4,000 inhabitants and is located in the district of Kaiserslautern in the southern Palatinate, there is a very special tree: an impressive food chestnut tree that is on Königstrasse and is now over 175 years old. The tree was planted in 1850 after the Napoleonic wars and is now a real institution in the village. Ralf Gaul, an architect and convinced tree carer, has campaigned for his preservation and lovingly describes him as his "favorite tree". Beate Kafitz, the client of a multi -party house nearby, confirms that this tree is a formative element of the townscape and should not give way.

The kindergarten children are also used for the chestnuts that the tree delivers at best. When the harvest is good-as in 2023, where particularly large "super-chestnuts" were harvested-the little ones can tinker hard. Historically, however, chestnut production was never great, so that use as a pig feed in the past was not uncommon. The former resident Emilie Dietz also remembers festivals that were celebrated under the shadow -giving branches of the tree.

Natural miracle Mehlinger Heide

Next to this tree there is more to discover in Mehlingen. The Mehlinger Heide, one of the largest heath landscapes in southern Germany, is a popular destination for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. With its impressive area of ​​around 410 hectares, she has attracted visitors from the region and beyond since 2005. The area was protected in 1992 and offers habitat for various endangered species.

If you want to explore the heath, you can take part in guided Sunday hikes that take about 2.5 hours and managed by experienced guides. The next dates are on July 27, 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th and 31st August 2025, each at 11:00 a.m. It is worth noting that these tours for adults cost 5 euros, while children up to 14 years can hike free of charge. Fixed footwear is a must on these tours.

historical context and visitor information

It is hard to imagine that this beautiful area once served as a military training area during the First World War. After returning to Germany in 1992, extensive nature conservation measures took place. These include, among other things, marked main paths on which visitors can discover the landscape without disturbing them. In addition, there are calm zones with wooden benches along the hiking trails that invite you to linger.

The time of the heather bloom, which usually takes place from late July to September, is particularly beautiful. In 2024, the flowering period is expected to reach its peak from mid -August. Therefore, a visit to this time is particularly worthwhile to experience the colors of nature.

The Enkenbach-Alsenborn tourist office is available for individual group tours and further information. Interested parties can report by phone or email and receive further details on these exciting natural experiences.

Overall, it turns out that Mehlingen is not only through its old chestnut tree, but also through the diverse nature of the Mehlingen Heide Heide rich in history and experiences. One more reason to pay a visit to the region!

For more information about the Mehlinger Heide and its events, the [official website] ( Mehlinger-heide.de ) href = "https://www.enkenbach-alsenborn.de/lebeworthy-tourismus-freizeit/freizeitivitaeten/naturschutzgebiet-mehlinger-heide/"> enkenbach-alsenborn.de ). Also [Die Rheinpfalz] ( rheinpfalz.de ) has interesting facts in Mehlingen.