Althengstett: Discover Waldenser History and Hotels

One of the cultural history highlights in the municipality of Althengstett is in Neuhengstett. The museum, WaldenserEnsemble, Häusle and Waldenserstein offer different ways to explore local history: a permanent exhibition, a multimedia show, a recreated living space and a memorial. This allows you to distinguish between the topics based on their respective focus—from notable figures in local history to the commemoration of the Waldenser families who immigrated here. A circular route also links several named places in a loop around Neuhengstett.

The Museum and Waldenser History

The museum in Neuhengstett features a permanent exhibition on notable figures from the town’s history. Other temporary exhibitions change over time. From March to October, the museum is open on the first Sunday of each month from 2 to 5 p.m. As opening hours may change, check them before you travel. Group tours are available by arrangement. If you are planning a tour for your group, arrange it in advance.

The new building of the WaldenserEnsemble is located directly behind the museum Häusle. A multimedia show there presents the history of the Waldensians in seven sections and lasts about 22 minutes. It may not be shown during events. In terms of content, it takes a different approach from the permanent exhibition: while the exhibition features notable figures from Neuhengstett’s history, the show focuses on the history of the Waldensians.

Häusle, Waldenserstein and Church

The Häusle is on Waldenserstraße in Neuhengstett and reflects the town’s original style of construction. It was built around 1824 and recreates a living space from the mid-19th century. The Waldenserstein is the landmark of Neuhengstett. It was erected on May 3, 1881, in memory of the Waldenser families who had immigrated at the time. The Waldenser Church is also one of Neuhengstett’s attractions. At the Häusle, the recreated living space is the main focus; at the Waldenserstein, it is the reason for the 1881 memorial.

A Circular Route Around Neuhengstett

In 2026, a guided pilgrimage hike followed the Spiritual Waldenserweg around Neuhengstett. The circular route ran from the New Cemetery through the forest by Esslesbrunnen, past Hofgut Georgenau and the Waldenserstein. The return route went via the Waldenser Church and WaldenserEnsemble to the starting point. If you plan to walk this route yourself, check the current trail conditions in advance.

More Destinations in the Broader Calw Travel Region

The broader Calw travel region offers other distinct themes. In Nagold, the foundations of various buildings in the castle’s inner precinct, dating from the 12th century, are still preserved in the ruins of Hohennagold Castle on Nagold Castle Hill. In Schömberg, the barefoot park offers a trail about 800 meters long with more than 20 different materials. The two examples have different focuses: Nagold is about preserved castle buildings, while Schömberg offers a trail featuring a variety of materials.

Discover more destinations: Nagold, Wildberg, Simmersfeld, Schömberg, Neubulach, Höfen An Der Enz, Bad Wildbad, Dobel

To the broader travel overview: Calw.