Hochstein is a basalt rock formation designated as a natural monument on Kackenberger Stein, also known as Neuhochsteiner Berg. This elevation is 525 metres high and the highest in the Westerburger Land. To help you find your way, it is useful to distinguish between the two: Hochstein refers to the rock formation; Kackenberger Stein, or Neuhochsteiner Berg, refers to the elevation on which it lies. Several hiking trails offer different options in terms of length and destination.
A Name with a History
The name of the village has also changed over the centuries. Neuhochstein did not receive its current name until 1927. Earlier names included “Kockenberch” around 1300, “Kockenberg” in 1352 and “Kackenberg” in 1507. The new name was derived from the nearby elevation of Hochstein. The sequence runs from the early “Kockenberch” through later forms of the name to the village’s current designation, linking its history with the landscape that gave it its name.
Hiking by Length and Destination
The 9.8 km Hochsteinrunde is part of the Höhner 8. It passes through Neuhochstein and runs south of the village alongside fields and pastures; it also offers long-distance views. The route therefore combines a connection to the village, open stretches of landscape and scenic views. At 9.8 kilometres, it is among the shorter hikes described here.
Three more hikes complement the shorter local route. The 22 km circular trail “Basalt and Lignite” leads via Dreisbach to Hochstein in Neuhochstein. The approximately 20 km Alexandriaweg also leads to Hochstein in Neuhochstein. A circular hike of around 14 km is called “SP8 Kackenberger Stein – Große Nister and Back” and leads to Kackenberger Stein in Neuhochstein. The routes therefore differ in length and destination: two lead to Hochstein, while SP8 leads to Kackenberger Stein and also mentions the Große Nister in its title.
The distances range from 9.8 to 22 km, a difference of just over twelve kilometres; the other two routes are listed as approximately 14 and 20 km. To choose, you can first compare the landscape feature you want to visit and then the route length.
Another Hiking Destination
Another hike descends into the Nister valley and leads to the drainage adit of the former Alexandria lignite mine. Here, the focus is on the river valley and a destination associated with the former lignite mine. This hiking destination complements the Hochstein and Kackenberger Stein destinations with a former mining site.
Summer Forest Fair
The forest fair is held on Hochstein in summer. Alongside the landscape and hiking trails, this offers a seasonal reason to visit. If you would like to plan your stay around it, check the event date, as specific dates may vary.
Discover more destinations: Hachenburg, Wirges, Freilingen, Willmenrod, Nauort, Korb, Niedererbach, KrĂĽmmel
View the main travel overview: Westerwald.
