Ransbach-Baumbach: Ceramics, Erlenhofsee Lake and Outdoor Pool

Ransbach-Baumbach is a ceramics town in the Kannenbäckerland region. Ceramics shape both the local economy and recurring events. Businesses produce salt-glazed stoneware, household and decorative ceramics, garden, building and home ceramics, as well as technical ceramics. The range therefore extends from household and garden items to specialized products.

Ceramics that shape the town

The town’s history is also linked to the industry: the town archive documents former and active ceramics businesses that have shaped Ransbach-Baumbach. Anyone interested in the development and different uses of ceramics will find a tangible connection here between crafts, products and local history.

The “European Pottery Market” takes place annually and offers an opportunity to view and buy ceramic products. During the market, local pottery workshops open to visitors. At the market square, you can try your hand at pottery and modelling; there is also an opportunity to use a potter’s wheel. The program includes RAKU firing demonstrations, which may take place several times a day. Individual program items, dates and the selection of stalls may vary from year to year, so check the latest market information before your trip.

The market also connects the ceramics theme with regional dishes: the food on offer includes stew soup and potato pancakes. This food offer is tied to the event; vendors and dishes may change.

Water and nature at Erlenhofsee Lake

Ransbach-Baumbach outdoor pool is located at the edge of the forest. Facilities include a 50-metre swimming pool, one- and three-metre diving platforms, and an 80-metre water slide. There is also a beach volleyball court. The pool is designed to be accessible and welcoming to seniors and people with disabilities. As it operates seasonally, check current opening hours and the availability of facilities before visiting.

There is also a kiosk on site, serving food and drinks and ice cream, as well as a covered terrace. The availability of these services may change. This means a visit to the outdoor pool can combine swimming with the other recreational options mentioned, though they may not all be available at all times.

The rose park is next to the eight-hectare Erlenhofsee Lake. A circular path and fishing opportunities are among the features of this lakeside destination. Ransbach-Baumbach thus offers different options side by side: the seasonal outdoor pool with its swimming pool and slide, and Erlenhofsee Lake with its circular path and fishing. Which of these matters most to you may influence how you plan your stay.

Ceramics history and routes in the surrounding area

The Westerwald Kannenbäckerstraße pottery route runs for around 70 kilometres through Ransbach-Baumbach. It opened in 1978; stops along the route offer a chance to learn more about the history and products of pottery. The Kannenbäckerland region also has hiking trails, including the Brexbach Gorge, well-developed cycling routes and a large Nordic walking park. These regional options offer a different focus from a market visit or a trip to the outdoor pool.

In nearby Höhr-Grenzhausen, the Westerwald Ceramics Museum offers opportunities for independent exploration, guided tours and ceramics workshops for all age groups. The museum is dedicated to the history of working with clay; the origins of most of the objects on display lie in a clay pit in the Westerwald. Tour and workshop offerings may change. If the museum is an important part of your plans, check the latest dates in advance.

Plan your stay around your interests

If you plan to visit the outdoor pool, take its seasonal operation into account. Erlenhofsee Lake, regional trails and the ceramics museum in Höhr-Grenzhausen add further options. You can plan your trip around whether ceramics, swimming, time by the water or regional discoveries are your priority.

Discover more destinations: Wittgert, Wied, Höchstenbach, Ellenhausen, Brandscheid, Maxsain, Gehlert and Dreisbach.

Go to the main travel overview: Westerwald.