Eichenhain

Eichenhain is a nature reserve in southern Stuttgart, between western Sillenbuch and Mittlere Filderstraße. Oak trees shape this former pasture landscape. The reserve preserves an old cultural landscape, protected since 1958, where individual trees, shrubs, hornbeam hedges, streams, dry grassland and meadows create distinct habitats. Some oaks are three to four centuries old, with trunks measuring four to six metres around. Pigs, sheep and foals once grazed beneath them, finding shade and acorns among the trees.

Wild bees, heath grasshoppers and native orchids inhabit the varied vegetation. Military orchids and bee orchids add colour to the grassland. Paths lead through the reserve for walking and cycling, while open sections allow kite flying on windy days. Benches beside the routes offer places to pause above Stuttgart, Asemwald and surrounding districts. Picnicking on the grass is discouraged because conservation work protects the species-rich pasture from becoming ordinary park lawn. The oldest oaks remain the clearest reminder of how livestock once shaped this landscape.