Series synopsis
Naturwunder Hochgebirge is a German documentary television series that premiered on ARTE on April 27, 2026. It ended on April 28, 2026. It was created by Sebastian Saam. It stars Nina West.
Although high mountain ranges occupy only a small part of the Earth, they are crucial to life on the planet. As the “water towers of the world,” they supply over two-thirds of global freshwater resources and provide sanctuary for endangered species. This series journeys across Europe’s spectacular mountain landscapes, revealing how these remote regions have shaped humanity’s past and continue to influence its future. Through powerful personal stories and breathtaking scenery, it shows how mounta ...
Premise
Although high mountain ranges occupy only a small part of the Earth, they are crucial to life on the planet. As the “water towers of the world,” they supply over two-thirds of global freshwater resources and provide sanctuary for endangered species. This series journeys across Europe’s spectacular mountain landscapes, revealing how these remote regions have shaped humanity’s past and continue to influence its future. Through powerful personal stories and breathtaking scenery, it shows how mountain communities are adapting to change—using innovation to preserve ancient traditions, from drone-guided reindeer herding in Norway to sled dogs assisting hikers in the Italian Alps—while the return of the bearded vulture to Spain offers hope for the future of these fragile environments.
Cast and characters
Leading cast
- Nina West as Self - Narrator (voice)
Episodes
This series spans 1 season with 4 episodes.
| Season | Episodes | First aired | Last aired |
|---|---|---|---|
| Season 1 | 4 | April 27, 2026 | April 28, 2026 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
The Julian Alps The Julian Alps lie between Slovenia and the Italian province of Friuli. In this region, so far untouched by mass tourism, much remains natural and pristine. But climate change is causing waterfalls to dry up in summer – and storms and erosion are leading to destruction and pest infestations. |
April 27, 2026 |
| 2 |
Svaneti and Racha In the Georgian regions of Svaneti and Racha, the alpine ecosystems are particularly affected by climate change. This also puts pressure on the people: landslides threaten villages, and agriculture must find new ways of doing business. The tradition-conscious locals are facing profound change. |
April 27, 2026 |
| 3 |
Picos de Europa The Spanish Picos de Europa, a mountainous region largely unexplored even by those familiar with the country. There, Spain, which in many places resembles a desert, reveals its green and alpine side. But hotter weather, drought, and rural depopulation pose challenges for the region's flora, fauna, and people. |
April 28, 2026 |
Production
Release
| Original network/platform | ARTE |
|---|---|
| First aired | April 27, 2026 |
| Last aired | April 28, 2026 |
| Runtime | 44 minutes |
| Status | ended |