The diverse habitat supports a rich wildlife population, including red deer, wild boars, and European wildcats. The park is home to over 100 breeding bird species, including the black woodpecker, red kite, and various owl species. Notable insect species include the stag beetle and purple emperor butterfly. The Edersee reservoir attracts numerous waterfowl species and serves as an important stopover for migratory birds.
The park is renowned for its ancient beech forest (Fagus sylvatica), which covers approximately 85% of the area and represents one of Central Europe's most pristine deciduous woodland ecosystems. The forest floor hosts a rich variety of plants including wood anemones, wild garlic, and various orchid species. Different vegetation zones can be observed along the altitude gradient, with unique plant communities adapting to varying soil conditions and microclimates.
The park's geological foundation consists primarily of Paleozoic rocks, particularly Devonian slate and greywacke, formed roughly 350-400 million years ago. The landscape features distinctive folded rock formations, steep valleys, and exposed cliff faces created through centuries of erosion. The Edersee valley's dramatic topography was carved by the ancient Eder River, with the current lake filling this natural depression.
The Kellerwald-Edersee region has a rich cultural heritage dating back to medieval times. The area was historically dominated by beech forests and was used for traditional forestry and agriculture. In 2004, it was designated as Germany's 14th national park, protecting one of Europe's largest continuous beech forests. The creation of the Edersee reservoir in 1914 significantly shaped the region's landscape and local economy, transforming it into an important recreational destination.
Key attractions include the 27-kilometer-long Edersee reservoir, offering water sports and recreational activities. The park features over 100 kilometers of marked hiking trails, including the premium Urwaldsteig Edersee trail. The Wildtierpark Edersee wildlife park provides opportunities to observe local fauna in semi-natural settings. Historic sites like Waldeck Castle offer panoramic views over the lake and surrounding forest landscape, while the park's visitor center provides interactive exhibitions about the region's natural and cultural heritage.
Kellerwald-Edersee experiences a moderate continental climate typical of central Germany. Summers are pleasantly warm with average temperatures between 18-22°C (64-72°F), while winters are cool with temperatures ranging from -2 to 4°C (28-39°F). The region receives consistent rainfall throughout the year, with slightly higher precipitation in summer months. The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is most favorable for outdoor activities and nature exploration.
Germany
51.1830°, 8.9830°
January 1, 2004
57.4
Kellerwald-Edersee National Park protects one of the largest remaining ancient beech forests in Central Europe. It borders the Edersee reservoir and features unique geological formations. The park's beech forests are part of the UNESCO World Heritage.