Due to its wide plateaus and gently rounded green hilltops, the Rhön region is often referred to as "Land der offenen Fernen" (land of unspoilt open countryside). The Rhön region is characterised by forests, fens and streams, rich animal and plant species, and carefully managed agricultural land.

In 1991, the UNESCO declared the Rhön region a biosphere reservation, offering it special protection.

At the same time, the Rhön is also significant as a business location. It is a model region, where economy and ecology are not in conflict. The Rhön is therefore part of a worldwide effort to harmonise the requirements of humans and nature.