Schurwald

The Schurwald is a forested ridge in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, lying northeast of Stuttgart. It forms part of the eastern edge of the Swabian Plateau and separates the Neckar valley to the west from the Rems valley to the east. The ridge runs roughly in a north–south direction for several tens of kilometers, with the highest elevations reaching about 500 to 550 meters above sea level.

Geography and geology: The Schurwald consists mainly of sedimentary rocks typical of the Swabian Keuper region and is characterized by rugged forested hills, with occasional rocky outcrops and gullies. The landscape features a mix of beech, oak and conifer stands, as well as cultivated slopes on the lower flanks and several open viewpoints.

Ecology and conservation: The area supports diverse habitats, including temperate broadleaf forest and streamside environments, hosting a variety of birds and mammals. Parts of the ridge are designated for nature conservation and for outdoor recreation, contributing to its ecological and scenic value.

Economy and recreation: Forestry has historically been an economic base in the region. Today the Schurwald is a popular destination for locals and visitors, offering hiking and cycling routes, scenic viewpoints, and winter recreation at nearby facilities. There are numerous marked trails with information boards for visitors.

Access and administration: The Schurwald spans several municipalities in Baden-Württemberg and is accessible by regional roads and public transport from Stuttgart and surrounding towns. Local tourism and community groups promote the ridge as an outdoor recreation area, balancing conservation with public use.