The Wiesensee During Its Restoration
Stahlhofen am Wiesensee lies on a rise near the western shore of the 80-hectare Wiesensee; the lake is visible from much of the built-up village. A restoration phase currently shapes visits: the lake has been drained since February 2023, and refilling is expected to begin in early 2027. Sailing and swimming are suspended until the lake is refilled. The circular trail, café and golf course remain accessible.
The circular trail around the Wiesensee is about six kilometres long and can be used accessibly with a pram or wheelchair. Check temporary trail conditions before setting off. This allows you to plan the walk as a focus in its own right, independently of the water sports currently on pause.
Village History and Attractions at the Wiesensee
A tangible reminder of the village’s history is the old village school. Built in 1830, it is a protected historic building. There is also a regional Kräuterwind shop at the Wiesensee; check in advance whether it is open. The WällerLand Tourist Information Centre offers e-bike rentals. Check availability for this as well before your trip.
There is a specific option to consider when planning an overnight stay: the hotel remains accessible. If you are considering it, check current availability before booking.
Routes by Distance
The Wiesensee is a junction in the Rhineland-Palatinate cycling network and the Westerwald cycling routes. Routes in the Wiesensee area include the 34-kilometre Nister-Wiesensee Tour, the 10-kilometre Seenwege, the 19.4-kilometre “Grüner Steig und 2-Seen-Weg” and the 212-kilometre WW1 circular cycling route. The stated distances therefore range from 10 to 212 kilometres, helping you choose a route by length. Check the route and markings before setting off.
Hiking and the Holzbach Gorge
The Stiftsweg W 2 starts at the Wiesensee; one of its highlights is the Holzbach Gorge near Gemünden. It is considered one of the oldest nature reserves in the Westerwald. The gorge is a breakthrough valley about one kilometre long, with basalt walls up to 30 metres high. A loop of the WesterwaldSteig also highlights the roughly 30-metre-deep Holzbach Gorge as a special feature. Before setting off, check the latest notices about temporary changes to the Stiftsweg; conditions on nature trails can change with the weather.
Getting There and Planning
To reach the Wiesensee hiking trailhead, take the train to Westerburg, then bus route 116 to the Winner Ufer stop. As timetables can change, check your connection before setting off. If travelling by car, there is a large free car park directly at the Wiesensee at Winner Ufer 9. Availability may change during works or events.
For the wider travel overview: Westerwald.
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