What is a curative forest?

Curative forests are wooded areas which, due to their various properties, are suitable for promoting health and well-being across a broad spectrum.
Time spent in curative forests is likely to prevent the progression, recurrence and chronicification of a disease (secondary prevention).

The minimum criteria are general structural requirements for curative forests:

Basic requirements

• well managed, near-natural forest
• location removed from road/rail traffic
• development / use / landscaping concept

Environment

• parking facilities with nearby sanitary facilities

Health-promoting aspect

• emission-free forest air
• relaxing

Signage

• signposts with trail length information and information on special sights
• graphic presentation of trail profile
• info boards on plants and trees, special features in wood, exposure to allergens

Trail network

• unpaved track surfaces
• signposted exercise trails graduated according to strenuousness and difficulty
• trails for moderate physical exertion

Infrastructure

• seating
• facilities for resting/picnicking etc.
• relaxation area

Accessibility

• some trails are accessible to persons with disabilities

Treatment options

• climate
• movement
• relaxation

In addition to the minimum criteria, optimal criteria are also defined. For an optimum, for example, the proximity to a body of water (lake, pond, stream, sea) is necessary. But also the facilities are extensions, including: a restaurant at the edge of the forest, the health-oriented facility in the immediate vicinity, a source of drinking water, a fitness trail, a hydrotherapy facility (Kneipp facility) and disabled friendly, wheelchair accessible, pushchair-friendly paths.

The availability of specialist personnel with climate and forest therapists is also mentioned.