Neuhochstein: Natural Monument, Local History and Hiking Trails

Neuhochstein brings together a striking basalt rock formation, hiking trails of varying lengths and a summer tradition. At its heart is the Hochstein, a rock formation designated as a natural monument. The trails pass through fields and pastures, offer far-reaching views or take hikers to named destinations in the surrounding area. This is a way to get to know the village through its landscape and outdoor activities; its changing history of names offers another perspective.

From Kockenberch to Neuhochstein

Neuhochstein only received its current name in 1927. Earlier names included “Kockenberch” around 1300, “Kockenberg” in 1352 and “Kackenberg” in 1507. The new place name was derived from the nearby Hochstein hill. These different forms tell the story of a long local history, while today’s name refers to a specific feature of the landscape.

Hochstein and Kackenberger Stein

For orientation, it is worth keeping the names distinct: the Hochstein is the basalt rock formation on the Kackenberger Stein. Also known as Neuhochsteiner Berg, the Kackenberger Stein is 525 metres high and the highest elevation in Westerburger Land. The elevation refers to the Kackenberger Stein, not specifically to the rock formation. The natural monument and the hill thus provide two related but distinct points of reference in the landscape around Neuhochstein.

Hiking trails of varying lengths

The 9.8-kilometre Hochstein loop is part of the Höhner 8 and passes through Neuhochstein. To the south, it runs alongside fields and pastures and also offers fascinating far-reaching views. If you would like to compare its length with other options, there are longer routes too: the approximately 14-kilometre circular hiking trail “SP8 Kackenberger Stein – Große Nister and back” leads to the Kackenberger Stein in Neuhochstein. The approximately 20-kilometre Alexandriaweg also has the Hochstein in Neuhochstein as its destination.

Another longer option is the 22-kilometre “Basalt and Lignite” circular trail. It passes through Dreisbach on its way to the Hochstein. The routes differ not only in length but also in their layout and destinations: alongside the 9.8-kilometre loop, you can choose an approximately 14-kilometre circular hike, the Alexandriaweg or a 22-kilometre circular trail. When planning, you can first consider which distance and destination best suit your plans.

The Nister Valley is another hiking destination: one hike descends into the valley and leads to the outlet tunnel of the former Alexandria lignite mine. This adds another landscape impression to the rock formation and the open stretches beside fields and pastures. If you are interested in the former lignite mine, it offers another specific hiking destination besides the Hochstein.

A summer tradition at the Hochstein

The forest fair takes place on the Hochstein in summer. Alongside the hiking destinations, it adds a seasonal event to your plans for the area. Dates may vary, so check when the forest fair is taking place before your trip. When planning your stay, you can decide whether to focus on the hiking trails or include the summer event as well.

If you are looking for accommodation for a trip to Neuhochstein, your main reason for visiting can be a good place to start: would you like to explore the rock formation, choose a shorter loop, plan a longer hike or experience the forest fair in summer? The different destinations and trail lengths offer specific points to consider without suggesting a particular type of accommodation.

Discover more destinations: Freilingen, Wallmerod, Willmenrod, Westerburg, Hundsdorf, Kölbingen, Westernohe and Gackenbach.

See the regional travel overview: Westerwald.