Explore the region
In addition to unique sights, the region in and beyond Idar-Oberstein offers a wide range of leisure activities. Idar-Oberstein offers attractive opportunities for sports enthusiasts: Tennis, squash, badminton, cycling, horse riding, swimming, to name but a few; not forgetting the sports airfield in the Göttschied district. For nature lovers, the surrounding large forest areas are ideal for hiking and relaxing. The "Saar-Hunsrück-Steig" premium hiking trail leads to Idar-Oberstein. Many active and committed clubs in the cultural and sports sector offer interested people a wide range of leisure activities.
Let yourself be enchanted by the sparkling world of gemstones around the gemstone metropolis of Idar-Oberstein and the historic medieval town of Herrstein. Nestled in one of the most beautiful low mountain ranges in Germany, the EdelSteinLand is an Eldorado for gemstone and nature lovers. Rare minerals, famous fossil sites, excellent gemstone and jewelry creations. These are just some of the highlights of our diverse range. With us, you will become rich in unique experiences. Get to know fascinating people who are passionate about stone in all its dazzling facets. Look over the shoulders of gemstone craftsmen in historic and modern cutting workshops, visit a goldsmith at work or go in search of minerals yourself. One thing is guaranteed: With us, you will meet people with a passion for their trade. Nowhere else in the world is there such a concentration of everything to do with gemstones and jewelry. On your way through EdelSteinLand, you will come across mysterious mines and quarries, world-famous museums, modern and traditional cutting workshops. Learn more about the secrets of the legendary rock church or explore the narrow alleyways of the historic half-timbered town of Herrstein. There are many more sights to discover. Unlimited nature experiences in the Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park and on the Saar-Hunsrück-Steig and Traumschleife Saar-Hunsrück premium hiking trails await you in EdelSteinLand.
Numerous restaurants and accommodation establishments round off your visit to EdelSteinLand and ensure first-class relaxation. Enjoy the unmistakable hospitality and the famous Hunsrück cuisine, e.g. with spit roast and stuffed dumplings.
Further information about the buses, stops and timetables can be found on the homepage https://www.rnn.info/. Everything you need to know about a visit to Idar-Oberstein can be obtained from the tourist information office. It is located directly on the Oberstein market square.
Tourist Information EdelSteinLand
Hauptstraße 419, 55743 Idar-Oberstein
Phone 06781 64-6040, Fax 64-9514
E-mail: info@edelsteinland.de
www.edelsteinland.de
Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park
Mysterious, magical, imposing - welcome to the primeval forest of tomorrow, because here nature can still be untamed nature! The Federal Agency for Nature Conservation already counts the Hunsrück, with its long stretches of forest, as a "hotspot region for biodiversity". For example, most of Europe's wildcats live here.
Explore the more than 10,000-hectare Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park in the middle of its fascinating adventure region in the Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park. Discover ancient beech forests full of living deadwood, unique wetland biotopes, magnificent views, outstanding rocky landscapes, bizarre-looking Rosselhalden, mystically dark moors, glowing arnica meadows and shy wildcats.
Further information is available here:
www.nationalpark-hunsrueck-hochwald.de
www.nationalparkregion-hunsrueck-hochwald.de
Hike 410 fantastic kilometers of the Saar-Hunsrück Climb!
Walk along bizarre rock formations and idyllic streams or through green forests and mysterious moorland landscapes. Discover romantic lakes, enchanted valleys and fantastic views. The Saar-Hunsrück Climb invites you to enjoy carefree hikes on natural paths. Stages 11, 12, 13 and 14 of the Saar-Hunsrück-Steig run through the EdelSteinLand.
Around the Saar-Hunsrück Climb, over 111 fantastic premium circular hiking trails invite you to explore the EdelSteinLand on narrow paths: Go on a discovery tour on the Saar-Hunsrück dream loops and enjoy hikes that will literally make you dream! The dream loops are between 6 and 20 km long and offer hiking pleasure at the highest level.
Whether as part of a guided hike or on your own: a unique nature experience awaits you on the dream loops in EdelSteinLand. After the hike, our hosts welcome you to a well-deserved break!
www.saar-hunsrueck-steig.de
Things to see in Idar-Oberstein
Gemstone mines Steinkaulenberg
You will feel as if you have been transported to a fairytale cave in this gemstone gallery, the only one in Europe open to visitors. Not only uniquely beautiful agates, but also glittering rock crystals, amethysts, smoky quartz, calcite and other minerals can be admired here. The numerous tunnels and openings of the Steinkaulenberg are located in the middle of a nature reserve, and the path to the mines leads along a geological nature trail. In addition to the visitor gallery, there are two mining fields for young mineral enthusiasts. In the "gemstone camp", treasure hunters can dig for gemstones above ground with a pick and shovel - based on the old tradition of gemstone digging.
www.edelsteinminen-idar-oberstein.de
Historic pond loop
In the historic Weiherschleife from 1634, you can get an impression of the processing methods of earlier centuries. A large part of their arduous work was carried out by the cutters lying on their stomachs on so-called "grinding chairs". The last waterwheel-driven gemstone grinding mill on the Idarbach also entertains visitors with a worthwhile gemstone exhibition, a multimedia show worth seeing, a gemstone feeling room, a real gemstone mining area for children and young people and the opportunity to take a leisurely pedal boat ride on the Kallwiesweiher pond.
www.edelsteinminen-idar-oberstein.de
German Gemstone Museum
Unique in the world and a "must" for lovers of sparkling gems: all types of rough and worked gemstones as well as an extensive glyptotheque (collection of antique stone sculptures) are presented here. The listed Wilhelminian-style villa, which houses the gemstone museum, is a treasure in itself. Good to know: Disabled access incl. elevator. Guided tours, wine tastings and children's workshops on request.
German Mineral Museum
One of the smallest cameos in the world, a crystal hall that is unique in Germany and an impressive collection of replicas of historical diamonds: These are just some of the highlights with which the German Mineral Museum delights countless visitors from all over the world year after year. Housed in a Wilhelminian-style building, the museum boasts one of the most extensive collections of gemstones and minerals in the region. In 24 rooms on four floors, the exhibits collected over the course of 81 years are waiting to give visitors an insight into the fascinating world of minerals and gemstones as well as the history of Idar-Oberstein.
www.deutsches-mineralienmuseum.de
Rock church
The town's famous landmark, the medieval church (built between 1482 and 1484) is visible from afar and towers over Idar-Oberstein from a prominent position. Even the ascent is a worthwhile experience: the interior can be reached via a tunnel cut into the rock massif, which leads up some 220 steps. Inside the church is an extraordinary altarpiece by an unknown master of the "Mainz School". Valuable panel paintings, artistic ornamental carvings, a naturally grown agate cross and an original Stumm organ round off the impressive interior. In addition, many artistic details, such as the Gothic baptismal font, the Renaissance painting of Count Sebastian or the Baroque paintings of the apostles, deserve the attention of the viewer.
The rock church can only be visited as part of a guided tour, which can be booked via the EdelsteinLand website www.edelsteinland.de .
Further information about the Felsenkirche can also be found at www.felsenkirche-oberstein.de.
Bosselstein Castle and Oberstein Castle
The castle of the Lords of Daun-Oberstein, strikingly situated on a rocky spur above the Nahe, together with Bosselstein Castle and the world-famous Felsenkirche church, provides an impressive backdrop above the old town of the Oberstein district. Oberstein Castle was first mentioned in 1330, experienced a heyday in the 15th century, burned down completely in 1855 and was partially rebuilt after 1980 by the Oberstein Castle Association. Bosselstein Castle, built around 1150, was inhabited by the Lords of Stein until 1600. It subsequently fell into disrepair, so that today only a stump of a tower and a few walls remain. Bosselstein Castle offers a magnificent view of the Oberstein district. It is a four-minute walk from Oberstein Castle, which is well worth it!
Visit Oberstein Castle: From the inner courtyard with its covered terrace, you can look out over Bosselstein Castle, Oberstein, the Nahe valley and the vast forests of the Winterhauch. The restored rooms of the castle and the inner courtyard can be visited from the beginning of April to the beginning of November. Weekend tip: the "Wirichstube" restaurant.
Jakob Bengel industrial monument
Arriving at the old factory, founded in 1870, you immediately feel transported back to times long past - and suddenly find yourself back in the heyday of Art Deco and Art Nouveau. The entire ambience of the historic chain and costume jewelry factory exudes the charm of this industrial-historical wedding. In the metropolises of the fashion industry, the name Bengel once enjoyed a legendary reputation with its outstanding costume jewelry collections. You can now marvel at the place where they were created: small technical marvels, tools and machines. The "Bengel macht Schule" project teaches schoolchildren the steps required to make their own piece of jewelry.
Gemstone adventure world
In the imaginatively designed exhibition landscape, which is unique in Europe, the most precious gemstones and minerals can not only be viewed but also experienced with all the senses. Surrounded by gleaming gemstones and effective light and color spectacles, the world of experience features a multitude of replicas of natural wonders, animals and mystical mythical creatures. A special highlight is the all-weather "gemstone digging site", where visitors can dig for real gemstones. All stones found can be taken home with you.
The land of stars
The Sternenland indoor family playground guarantees family fun for young and old. Jumping, climbing, romping and discovering on 2,500 m². Sternenland offers an unforgettable experience for every age group, whatever the weather. In addition to trampolines and bouncy castles or the 300 m² play tower, there is an extra area with a ball pool, slide and building blocks right next to the bistro area for younger visitors. In the bistro area, guests of all ages are offered snacks and refreshments, while adults can treat themselves to a good cup of cappuccino and enjoy their stay while the children play.
Fissler Shop in Idar-Oberstein
For decades, the name Fissler has stood for high-quality cookware that is characterized by precise workmanship, high utility and stylish, well thought-out design "Made in Germany". The Fissler Shop in Idar-Oberstein presents all products from the extensive Fissler range, as well as suitably selected products from well-known partners at special prices. In addition, you will regularly receive 2nd choice products or special offers at low prices. The Fissler Shop also offers a wide range of cooking-related activities: from cooking courses to cooking demonstrations.
Visits to cutting shops and goldsmiths
In addition to the old processing methods in the historic Weiherschleife, visitors can also experience the modern techniques of gemstone processing and jewelry making in numerous cutting shops and goldsmiths. For more information, please contact the tourist information office at
www.edelsteinland.de.
In the echtedel jewelry store, various jewelry makers from the region exhibit a wide range of fascinating, fine pieces of jewelry - to browse online, choose your favorite piece of jewelry and order it directly.
Factory outlet for jewelry, gemstones and minerals in the Oberstein district
The factory outlet - a 500m2 sales exhibition - offers a large selection of silver and gold jewelry from over 40 manufacturers and companies in the region at low direct sales prices. Also on offer: free cutting demonstrations, free special exhibition "Mystical Druze World", chain-knotting courses and gemstone cutting courses.
Gemstone cutting, jewelry and mineral gallery Peter Lind in the Idar district
Grinding demonstrations daily 11:30/14:00/15:30. For groups of 6 - 20 people at any time by appointment. Exhibition of gold and silver jewelry. Unique jewelry, gemstones, minerals, crystals. Information on gemstone healing. Gemstone identification and authenticity testing.
Worth seeing in the region
Historical Herrstein
55756 Herrstein
The medieval village of Herrstein will whisk you away to a charming idyll from the past. Your journey through time will take you back 500 to 300 years - far away from the hectic pace of everyday life today. Explore the enchanted alleyways and marvel at the numerous, beautifully restored half-timbered houses in this picturesque Hunsrück village. Our tour guides will show you the clock tower, the church, the battlements, the Schinderhanne Tower and many other exciting locations. Further information can be found at www.herrstein.de.
Fischbach copper mine and Fischbach copper smelter
Hosenbachstraße, 55743 Fischbach
Experience medieval mining on the Nahe with a modern and interesting guided tour of the copper mine. You should have seen the largest man-made mine in Europe in the Middle Ages. You can marvel at cavities and tunnel systems up to 30 meters high, as well as all kinds of fairytale-like things. In the copper smelter, you will then be given a vivid explanation of how copper was produced from the mined ore a good 500 years ago.
www.besucherbergwerk-fischbach.de
Water loop Biehl
55758 Asbacherhütte
In contrast to the Idar Weiherschleife, this historic, water-powered agate grinding mill is a completely atypical water grinding mill. The reason for this is that it is a former plaster mill that was only converted into a grinding mill around 1880. In contrast to many historical grinding mills, which are mainly operated for tourist purposes, the Asbach grinding mill is still a real production facility where visitors can experience grinding using traditional techniques.
www.alte-edelsteinschleiferei.de
Wildenburg game reserve
Wildenburger Straße 22, 55758 Kempfeld
You can get up close to over 400 native animals in the 42-hectare Wildenburg Wildlife Park - nestled in the beautiful mountain and forest landscape of the Hunsrück, in the Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park! Immerse yourself in the world of gray wolves, wild cats, forest goats, raccoons, eagle owls, peacocks and many other exciting animals. Unforgettable nature experiences await you: Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park & Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park information points, wildcat information center with capture and release station, Wolfsblut wolf landscape, adventure tours, ranger tours, animal feedings, children's playgrounds and much more.
www.wildfreigehege-wildenburg.de
Herrenberg slate quarry
55626 Bundenbach
The historic Herrenberg visitor mine near Bundenbach is an unusual attraction on the Hunsrück Slate and Castle Route. It gives visitors an impressive insight into the work of the miner and opens up a world of fossils from prehistoric times.
Celtic settlement Altburg
55626 Bundenbach
The old castle is a small Celtic castle used from the 3rd to 1st century BC, as they were distributed as small centers fairly regularly throughout the country. The fortifications and interior buildings were rebuilt at least three times, in some cases after disastrous fires. The last building activity is attested in 78 BC, 20 years before Caesar's Gallic war of conquest, which also incorporated the surrounding land of the Celtic Treveri into the Roman Empire.
WaterKnowledgeWorks
Steinbachtalsperre, Am Steinberg 1, 55758 Kempfeld
The WasserWissensWerk is the visitor and information center for everything to do with drinking water and is located directly at the Steinbach dam near Kempfeld. The dam, which is used to treat drinking water, is located on the edge of the Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park and in the Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park. On a tour, you will learn a lot about the importance of water, its dangers and protective measures, about the extraction, treatment and distribution, but also about the price of drinking water and the importance of virtual water. A "Blue Classroom", which is integrated into the WaterLab, is available for school classes as an extracurricular place of learning.
Barefoot path in Bad Sobernheim
Staudernheimer Straße 90, 55566 Bad Sobernheim
The barefoot path is a tingling, walkable adventure - 3,500 meters long. Like a foot reflexology massage, the walk over clay, grass, sand, stones and bark mulch stimulates the entire body. The clay pool, the ford through the Nahe and the suspension bridge are our highlights, and not just for children.
www.barfusspark-bad-sobernheim.de
Rhineland-Palatinate Open-Air Museum
Nachtigallental 1, 55566 Bad Sobernheim
In the Rhineland-Palatinate Open-Air Museum, everyday life from the last 500 years is brought back to life. Almost 40 historic buildings have been dismantled at their original locations in Rhineland-Palatinate, reassembled on the grounds of the open-air museum and furnished with great attention to detail. Complemented by gardens, fields, orchards, a vineyard, pastures and the associated animals, they give visitors the feeling of immersing themselves in history.
Disibodenberg monastery ruins
Disibodenberger SCIVIAS Foundation
Disibodenberger Hof 3, 55571 Odernheim am Glan St. Hildegard spent her first 39 years in the monastery as an Inklusin on the Disibodenberg. When the monastery was active, it was visible from afar as a mighty building. Today, the high gables of the abbey and the hospice, which have been preserved, are hidden by tall trees and can hardly be seen on arrival. The ground plans of the monastic buildings from the Benedictine and Cistercian periods are still clearly visible. The path through the south gate leads straight to St. Nicholas Church. The cloister and chapter house follow to the north. The kitchen and service areas follow. The abbey and hospice are magnificently shaped against the steep hillside in high Gothic architecture.