Discover Hilgert: Clay Pipe Tradition and Hiking Trails

Hilgert combines a long history of pottery with hiking trails through open pastureland, forest and the Masselbach Valley. Clay pipe making is particularly characteristic of the town; the HG5 offers a different focus with an 11.3-kilometre hike.

Clay Craft and Local History

Hilgert is considered one of the oldest centres for grey-blue stoneware ceramics. Archaeological finds indicate that local potters followed every stage in the development of the craft up to the 18th century. Clay pipe makers were first documented in Hilgert in 1754; in 1792, a guild of pipe makers was founded there. The town’s name also has a long history: it was first mentioned in a deed of reconciliation in 1349. The modern form, Hilgert, appeared on a map by J. F. Düntzfeld no later than 1772. The name may derive from “Hilligrod,” interpreted as “sacred clearing.”

The pipe bakery, also known as the Pfeiffestuff, is a cultural monument at Schulstraße 18. Traditional production used two-part moulds; finished clay pipes were fired for twelve hours at 950°C. These specific steps bring the craft tradition to life: shaping was followed by a long firing at a high temperature.

Walking through Hilgert and the Masselbach Valley

The HG5 starts on Waldstraße, first passes through Hilgert and then leaves the settlement. It is rated as a moderately difficult hiking route; it is 11.3 kilometres long, with about 195 metres of ascent, and takes 3.1 hours. The trail crosses open pastureland and descends through the forest into the Masselbach Valley. The section through the valley follows floodplain meadows and woodland towards Hundsdorf. The HG5 also passes the GeoTop Glockenschächte, a remnant of historic clay mining in the Kannenbäckerland.

In spring, flowering landscapes are among the sights along forest areas regenerating after earlier clearances. The information on distance, ascent and duration can help you assess whether the hike suits your stay. Route details can change, so check the latest information on the tourism website before setting out.

Another hiking route passes through Hilgert: according to route information dated December 2020 from the Westerwald Association, the HWW3 is a long-distance trail on the 97.9-kilometre Au–Bad Ems route. A cycling route around Höhr-Grenzhausen continues through the forest towards Hilgert. Together, a described hiking stage, a long-distance trail and a cycling route offer different ways to explore the area.

Getting There and Finding Your Way

By car, Hilgert can be reached via the L 307 from Höhr-Grenzhausen and Ransbach-Baumbach. VRM bus route 425 connects the town with Höhr-Grenzhausen, Ransbach-Baumbach, Wirges and Montabaur on weekdays and weekends. Check the timetable before travelling. Public parking is available at the sports ground on Waldstraße.

More to Explore in the Westerwald

Across the wider Westerwald destination, distinct cultural and nature attractions offer more ways to discover the region. The Westerwald Ceramic Museum presents the history of working with clay; most of the objects on display originated in a Westerwald clay pit. Visitors can get creative themselves in the well-equipped museum workshop, with expert guidance. It’s best to check workshop offerings and booking conditions before your trip.

The WesterwaldSteig runs for 235 kilometres across the Westerwald in 16 stages. This is on a different scale from the 11.3-kilometre HG5; check the current route planner for the long-distance trail’s length and stages before planning. At Stöffel Park, a former basalt quarry covering around 140 hectares brings together industrial heritage, geological history and nature. The TERTIÄRUM there displays fossils, including the famous “Stöffel mouse,” which document around 25 million years of Earth’s history.

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