Long stretches of the High Rhine are shaped by reinforced banks and power stations. Natural floodplains are therefore rare. Near Rietheim, the “Chly Rhy” Rhine floodplain protects 35 hectares along one of the river's few free-flowing stretches.
Its central feature is a former side channel of the Rhine, 1.5 kilometres long. It was reconnected to the main river during the restoration work. After just over a year of construction, the new floodplain opened on 20 June 2015. The project created still-water habitats, wet meadows, softwood floodplain woodland and areas of gravel and sand.
The combination of flowing and still water, wet meadows, deadwood and dry gravel areas creates a wide range of habitats. They provide suitable conditions for specialised plants, insects and amphibians. Little ringed plovers, kingfishers and beavers can also be found in the area.
A network of paths approximately one kilometre long and two viewpoints provide access without crossing the sensitive core areas. The main path is mostly level and has a natural surface. It is approximately a 15-minute walk from Rietheim railway station. Dogs must be kept on leads and visitors should remain on the paths.