Kleinhettstedt brings together mill history, traditionally made mustard and the Ilm Valley Cycle Path, which runs right through the town. This brings together a range of interests: the history of the mill complex, the production and tasting of mustard, and Kleinhettstedt’s place on a cycling route. For your travel plans, culture, culinary delights and cycling make a natural focus.
The Mill and the Ilm Valley Cycle Path
The listed mill complex of the Kleinhettstedt Art and Mustard Mill dates back to the 16th century and offers insights into different eras of milling. Until 1990, the half-timbered building served as a grain mill. Its long craft tradition and a specific period of former use can thus be seen side by side. The Ilm Valley Cycle Path runs right through Kleinhettstedt. The route offers a different focus from the mill: it passes through the town, while the mill complex is the cultural and historical highlight.
Mustard, Shop and Tasting
At the Art and Mustard Mill, more than 20 different types of mustard are developed from mustard seeds using traditional methods. The selection may change. At the “Mill Shop,” you can sample and buy Kleinhettstedt mustard. Alongside the history of the mill, mustard production is therefore also part of what makes the town distinctive.
The mill complex is also home to the Senfmühlentenne farm shop, which sells mustard, honey, wine, tea and sausage. Over coffee and homemade cake, you can learn about the range of products there. As availability may change, check the latest information before your visit. You can also sample mustard at the farm shop or at the adjoining “Zum Mühlenwirt” restaurant. The Mill Shop offers the opportunity to sample and buy mustard; the two other locations mentioned are also options for a tasting.
Stadtilm: Culture in the Centre and Nature at Buchberg
Stadtilm lies in the Ilm Valley, on the eastern foothills of the Thuringian Forest. St. Mary’s Church contains remnants of late Romanesque wall paintings in its tower vault, classified as a monument of national importance. Stadtilm thus offers its own cultural highlight alongside Kleinhettstedt’s mill history.
Stadtilm’s market square covers about 10,170 m² and is considered the largest market square in Thuringia. It is home to the Methfessel Monument, an obelisk dedicated to the composer Albert Methfessel, who was born in Stadtilm. The Eckoldt Fountain, re-erected in 2008, stands in the southern half of the square. E-bikes can be charged at a charging station on the market square; check current local information beforehand if you depend on it.
For nature lovers, Stadtilm offers the approximately 1 km-long nature trail at Buchberg. It passes information boards about native animal species and trees, as well as activity features including a climbing net, a long-jump pit and a sound game. Stadtilm outdoor swimming pool has a snack bar, a children’s playground and sunbathing areas. As these details may change and do not guarantee current operating status, it is advisable to check local information before visiting.
For the broader travel overview: Ilm Valley.
