Planting the future - new hornbeam tunnel in „Panarbora“

In September, the Waldbröl „Panarbora“ Youth Hostel“ its 10th anniversary - an occasion to celebrate, but also to think ahead. Because the climate is also changing in idyllic Waldbröl and the „Panarbora“ nature adventure park. And forest warden Patrick Mielke and the park team are responding to this with a very special measure: the redesign of the popular nature tunnel.

From the willow tunnel to the hornbeam grove

The previous willow tunnel, which has delighted many visitors over the years, was getting on in years - and above all very thirsty. The willow needs a lot of water and becomes very woody over time. No longer an ideal plant in times of increasing drought.

The solution: a native, climate-resistant alternative. Since March 2025, almost 130 new hornbeams have been growing around the old path, lovingly planted with the support of the Ückerseifer garden and tree nursery.

Why hornbeams?

The hornbeam - also known as the hornbeam or iron tree - belongs to the birch family, is extremely robust, copes well with drier soils and is therefore well suited to the changing climate. Another advantage: it turns green early in the year, usually at the beginning of April - even up here on the Nutscheid (approx. 330 metres above sea level).

„The trees now need time to grow well,“ explains Patrick Mielke, who is putting his heart and soul into the project. „But we can start weaving the green tunnel in two years“ time. Then a new, shady path will be created that generations of guests will enjoy."