The Forest of the Outer Green Belt and the Forest Laboratory: Discovering Cologne Anew

Dive into the Future of the Forest with Cologne's Green Belt

This tour connects urban history, forest education, and a forward-looking perspective into a unique discovery experience in the western part of Cologne. On September 25, 2026, the German Forest Protection Association will guide participants through the outer green belt and further into the forest laboratory, where the development of Cologne's forest in light of climate change becomes tangible. ([stadt-koeln.de](https://www.stadt-koeln.de/leben-in-koeln/freizeit-natur-sport/veranstaltungskalender/der-wald-des-aeusseren-gruenguertels-das-waldlabor))

Between Forest and Meadow Belt: Cologne's Green Grand Architecture

The Outer Green Belt was created in the 1920s on the grounds of former fortifications and is now one of the largest contiguous green spaces in the city. Covering around 800 hectares, it shapes the visual identity of Cologne far beyond the city center and impressively combines recreation, nature experiences, and urban history. ([willkommen.koelntourismus.de](https://willkommen.koelntourismus.de/sehenswuerdigkeiten/koelner-gruenguertel))

The Forest Laboratory as a Glimpse into the Forest of Tomorrow

Following the tour, the forest laboratory will come into focus. The project was established near the Decksteiner Pond and serves as a testing ground for how forests can adapt to climate change. Visitors will encounter a vibrant open-air laboratory with a focus on forest education and concrete insights into the future of urban forests. ([willkommen.koelntourismus.de](https://willkommen.koelntourismus.de/sehenswuerdigkeiten/koelner-gruenguertel))

Expert-led Tour with Local Background

The event will be led by Dr. Joachim Bauer. The city of Cologne describes the event as a tour by the German Forest Protection Association, complemented by a visit to the forest laboratory. This results in a culturally and historically informed city tour that brings together local history, nature education, and sustainable urban development. ([stadt-koeln.de](https://www.stadt-koeln.de/mediaasset/content/pdf67/sk_473_25_veranstaltungsprogramm_2026_amt_67_barrierefrei.pdf))

Meeting Point, Travel and Practical Information

The meeting point is the parking lot Haus am See at Decksteiner Weiher, Bachemer Landstraße 420 in 50935 Cologne. The KVB stop Stüttgenhof on line 7 is nearby. Participation is free; registration is required. Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended for the tour, as the focus is on an outdoor experience. ([stadt-koeln.de](https://www.stadt-koeln.de/leben-in-koeln/freizeit-natur-sport/veranstaltungskalender/der-wald-des-aeusseren-gruenguertels-das-waldlabor))

Conclusion

This tour offers more than just a walk in the green: it opens a window to Cologne's green urban history, the ecological future of the forest, and an extraordinary discovery experience between urban nature and research. Those who wish to experience nature, history, and sustainable urban development in one event should secure their spot for this evening and register in time. ([stadt-koeln.de](https://www.stadt-koeln.de/leben-in-koeln/freizeit-natur-sport/veranstaltungskalender/der-wald-des-aeusseren-gruenguertels-das-waldlabor))

Official Channels of the German Forest Protection Association:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sdw_bundesverband/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SchutzgemeinschaftDeutscherWald/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SDW_e.V.
• LinkedIn: https://de.linkedin.com/company/s-d-w

Sources:

• City of Cologne - The Forest of the Outer Green Belt and the Forest Laboratory
• City of Cologne - Event Program 2026
• Forest Laboratory Cologne - Dates 2026
• Cologne Tourism - Cologne Green Belt
• German Forest Protection Association - Federal Association
• SDW - News and Social Wall
• SDW - Expert Report 2024
• House of the Forest Cologne - Forest Laboratory