Nisterau: Nature and Mining History

If you are looking for a hotel in Nisterau, you can plan your trip around your own interests: the Bacher Lay nature reserve is known for its basalt and diverse habitats, while mining history and local events offer more to explore. When planning, consider whether nature, local history or a particular event will be the focus of your stay.

Bacher Lay Natural Area

The Bacher Lay nature reserve covers around 45 hectares. Still and flowing waters, shallow and steep banks, dry grassland, tall-herb vegetation and basalt cliffs are found close together here. A natural stream and a small lake are also part of this landscape. The area provides a habitat for amphibians, reptiles, numerous bird species and several orchid species.

Nisterau offers hiking and cycling trails through and around the town; the nature reserve offers opportunities to experience characteristic plant and animal life. The former Bacher Lay basalt quarry also features an almost vertical basalt wall, which can turn into an ice wall in severe winters. The nature reserve is freely accessible at all times; temporary nature conservation or safety measures may change access for a while. Check local conditions before your visit.

Mining History and Events

Nisterau’s history has been linked to the mining of lignite and basalt for centuries. The underground Wilhelmszeche mine closed in 1926; at times, more than 600 miners worked there. The former Bacher Lay basalt quarry is associated with the Pfaffenmal natural monument. The mine and quarry represent different aspects of mining history, while the natural monument draws attention to the landscape.

The annual Backesfest also welcomes visitors from outside Nisterau. Dates and programs may vary. Another established local event is an equestrian and show-jumping tournament; dates and programs may change here, too. If you would like to combine your trip with a festival or tournament, check the latest event dates in advance.

In the wider Westerwald destination

In the Westerwald, the WesterwaldSteig offers another hiking option: the long-distance trail is 235 kilometers long and divided into 16 stages. Check the latest route planner before setting out. Also in the Westerwald is Stöffel-Park, a former basalt quarry covering around 140 hectares that brings together industrial heritage, geological history and nature. The TERTIÄRUM displays fossils, including the famous “Stöffel mouse”; the exhibits document around 25 million years of Earth’s history. Another basalt landscape in the Westerwald is the Holzbach Gorge: this breakthrough valley is about one kilometer long, and its basalt walls are up to 30 meters high.

The Westerwald Ceramics Museum is dedicated to the history of working with clay. The objects on display mostly originated in a clay pit in the Westerwald. In the well-equipped museum workshop, you can get creative yourself under expert guidance. Check the current workshop program and booking conditions in advance.

Discover more destinations: Wied, Höhn, Holler, Pottum, Ebernhahn, Oberelbert, Wirges, Langenhahn.

Back to the main travel overview: Westerwald.