A sea of purple flowers Iris meadow at the foot of the Grimming
It blooms and flourishes. The meadows between Trautenfels and Irdning are currently in full bloom. The iris, also known as the Siberian iris, bathes the fields at the foot of the Grimming in an impressive sea of purple flowers. In this blog, you can find out what else awaits you at the Trautenfels nature reserves. We also introduce you to the Raumberg-Gumpenstein Federal Institute of Higher Education and Research, which was involved in a project to preserve and improve habitats for birds, amphibians and insects:
Raumberg-Gumpenstein - A center for education and research
Research and teaching go hand in hand here. For more than 60 years, research has been carried out at the center in Gumpenstein on agriculture and in particular on grassland and livestock farms in the Alpine region. The amount of precipitation and the temperature average in the Enns Valley can be regarded as representative for the majority of the Alpine region and the results can therefore be transferred to large areas in Austria and abroad. At the Gumpenstein site, near Irdning, around 200 ha are farmed, 35 ha of which are used for research projects. The HBLFA school site in Raumberg is just a few minutes' walk away.
Trautenfels nature conservation areas - a must-see during the iris bloom
From fragrant star daffodils and blue-purple flowering Siberian irises to purple loosestrife, whose nectar attracts butterflies - you can marvel at this variety of plants and much more in the nature conservation areas between Irdning and Trautenfels, which are undoubtedly some of the most beautiful meadows in the entire region. But at the end of May and beginning of June, when the Siberian iris shows its beauty, it is particularly impressive. However, the meadows are not only beautiful to look at, they also provide a habitat for many rare and endangered plants. In a joint cooperation with the Styrian Nature Conservation Association, the surrounding farmers and Trautenfels Castle, the LFZ Raumberg-Gumpenstein took care of the construction of a viewing tower and a platform for observing amphibians. In addition, an existing stand was converted into an information point. The aim of the project is to create optimal living conditions for fauna and flora. The areas are also used for research and education.
How to get to the Iris meadow:
Who wouldn't want to admire the variety of flowers and enjoy the sun? The iris meadows can be visited and admired at any time. However, you are not allowed to leave the marked paths, as trampled areas can no longer be mowed. Starting from the parking lot in Trautenfels, follow the Enns cycle path up the valley. This sign on the left-hand side shows you where to start. Other information boards also provide you with a wealth of knowledge about the cultivation and the flora and fauna.
