Discover Nisterau through two distinctive features: the varied landscape of Bacher Lay and a local history linked to lignite and basalt mining over several centuries. Hiking and cycling routes lead through and around the village. The nature reserve offers a unique combination of rocky landscapes, waters, and habitats.

Nature and landscape of Bacher Lay

The Bacher Lay nature reserve covers approximately 45 hectares. Still and flowing waters, shallow and steep banks, dry grasslands, tall-herb communities, and basalt cliffs lie close together here. The landscape also includes a natural stream and a small lake. The different habitats provide a home for amphibians, reptiles, numerous bird species, and several orchid species.

The area’s former use as a basalt quarry also shapes its landscape: in severe winters, an almost vertical basalt face can turn into a wall of ice. This is a seasonal natural phenomenon, not a regular winter feature. Visitors to Bacher Lay can experience the landscape from different perspectives—from its banks and waters to its steep rock faces.

The nature reserve is freely accessible at all times. Conservation or safety measures may temporarily affect access, so please check local notices before your visit.

Exploring hiking and cycling routes

The hiking and cycling routes through and around Nisterau offer a way to make your stay more active. One specific route in the Bad Marienberg area is the 7.3-kilometre M4 circular route. It should not be confused with a route through Bacher Lay. When planning your route, it is worth checking the latest route information and conditions before setting out.

In the wider Westerwald destination, the Bad Marienberg association also offers three developed circular cycling routes with varying levels of difficulty. These add a separate regional selection to the local routes; they should not be regarded as part of a circular route through Nisterau.

Mining history and events

The Wilhelmszeche underground mine closed in 1926. At various times, more than 600 miners worked there. Basalt quarrying is also part of Nisterau’s history; the Bacher Lay basalt quarry is associated with the Pfaffenmal natural monument. This history offers another way to read the landscape: alongside its habitats and geological formations, the area also reflects the former extraction of stone.

Local traditions include the annual Backesfest, which also welcomes visitors from outside Nisterau. Dates and programmes may vary. An established part of the local events calendar is also an equestrian show jumping tournament; here too, dates and programmes may change. If an event is important to your trip, check the latest details in advance.

More places to explore in the Westerwald

The WesterwaldSteig and the Druidensteig offer a different scale from the local routes: the WesterwaldSteig is a 235-kilometre long-distance hiking trail with 16 stages. Check the latest route planner before setting out. The Druidensteig runs for 94 kilometres over seven day stages through seven river valleys and offers more than 30 geo-information points. These routes are independent options within the wider Westerwald destination, not designated routes through Nisterau.

Discover more destinations: Astert, Montabaur, Bad Marienberg, Stockum-Püschen, Goddert, Kroppach, Höhr-Grenzhausen, Mörsbach.

Back to the main travel overview: Westerwald.