National Parks in Hungary

Hungary Experience-naturally! Welcoming National Parks

www.nemzetipark.gov.hu

National Parks

Events Calendar 2010 When? 10th April

Where?  Apa  A pajp jpus uszt ztaa (K (Kis isku kuns nság ág NP.) Budapest – Pál-völgyi Cave, Eger –Érsekkert, Fertőújlak 22nd, 24th and –Visitor Centre, Kecskemét 25th April – Town centre, Pécs – Tettye square, Szatymaz – Tisza-Valley Demonstration Site Szilvásvárad – Aggtelek 29th May (Aggtelek and Bükk NP.) Barcs Juniper Grove, Fertőújlak 22nd and 23rd May – Visitor Centre, Lakitelek– Tőserdő, Lillafüred th th 11 -13 June, Őriszentpéter Őriszent péter (Őrség (Őr ség NP.) NP.) and at 14th-20th June other locations Hortobágy–Fish Pond 12th June (Hortobágy–Halastó) (Hortobágy (Hortobá gy NP NP.).) 19th June Tihany Tih any (Ba (Balat laton on Uplands ands NP.) Szarvas – Körösvölgy Visitor 19th June Centre (Körös–Mar ( Körös–Maros os NP.) NP.) th th 25 -27 June Őriszentpéter (Ő (Őrség NP NP.) Kápolnapuszta 3rd July (Balaton Uplands NP.) Barcs–Drávaszentes 10th July (Duna–Dráva (Duna–Drá va NP NP.).) th 17 July Kölked (Duna–Dráva NP.)  Aggtelek, Égerszög, Gömörszőlős, Hidvégardó, 22nd JulyImola, Jósvafő, Szögliget, st 1 August Tornakápolna,, Trizs Tornakápolna (Np. Aggtelek) and surrounding 13.-22. August Őriszentpéter towns and villages (Őrség NP.) (White Lake) of 18th September Fehértó Kardoskútt (Körös–Maros Kardoskú (Körös–Mar os NP.) NP.)

What? Bust Bu star ardd Rut Ruttiting ng

Earth Day

12th Bükk–Aggtelek Bicycle Tour European National Parks Day Week of Hungarian National Parks 2010 Hortobágy–Fish Pond Small Train Day Lavend Lav ender er Fest Festiva ivall „Midsummer Night’s Eve” Őrsé ségg Fa Fair Buffalo Festival Hungarian Shepherd Dogs Trial Stork Day 10. Gömör–Orna-Festiv Gömör–Orna-Festival al

Land of Seven Meadows

16th October 26th-27th November

Tata, Öreg-tó

18th-19th September 18th September 9th October 9th October

2 3

Let’s go!

11th Fehértó (White Lake) Day World Heritage  Aggtelek (Aggtelek NP.) Patriotic Bicycle Tour Saint Michael’s Day Bugac (Kiskunság NP.) Festival Festival in the Salföld Salföld (Balaton (B alaton Uplands Uplan ds NP.) NP.) Manor Őriszentpéter, Szalafő–Pityerszer 7th Őrség International (Őrség NP.) Pumpkin Festival 4th Transdanubian Fertőúj lak (Fertő–Hanság Fertőújlak (Fertő–H anság NP.) NP.) Hungarian Grey Cattle Show and Fair Hortobágy, Visitor Centre Crane Festival (Hortobágy (Hortobá gy NP NP.).)

18th September

Initiative

10th Tata Wild Goose Day

Roughly a tenth of the land area of Hungary is classi fied as protected nature area. Within this there are ten designated National Parks, 38 Landscape Protection Areas and several Nature Conservation Areas where there are thick hillside forests, rolling hills, wild rivers, seemingly endless plains and parts where limestone rocks and caves secrete a truly amazing array of hidden treasures.  All these wonders are simply waiting to be discovered by visitors. Just a few words before we begin...  Visitor and education centres: larger demonstration sites usually situated at one of the main entry gates to the natural park, or at a convenient, central cen tral place. Specialists are on hand to give guidance about basic rules to be observed while in the nature reserve and interactive exhibition introduce the rich natural and cultural heritage and the work in the fields of nature and cultural conservation. Visitor centres also offer publications and local gifts.

Demonstration site: a facility aiming to raise the awareness of visitors about a specific topic of natural or cultural heritage.

Nature trail: a designated route ideal for visitors wishing to roam independently.. Stop-off points and pendently information boards along the way give information about the natural and cultural significance of the area.

Guided tours: led by guides who are experts in the natural and cultural treasures of the respective area. Guided tours are especially popular in those parts of the National Parks considered to be at particular risk of damage from the passage of visitors or where the land is subject to the highest level of protected status for conservation reasons, as this is the only means of observing nature at close quarters.

Now let’s set off 

on a fantastic  journey! Legend: Especially recommended for younger age groups

Wheelchair access

Especially recommended for families

Rent a bike

Especially recommended for senior citizens

Tenting

www.hungary.com

National Parks  Aggtelek National Park

Tohonya-Kuriszlán Nature Trail (8.4 km) (Jósvafő) – offers two routes, which can also be divided into two separate tours; the trail also features the gene preservation site of the Hucul breed of mountain horse.

Cave Tours:

Treasures above and below the surface – the Aggtelek National Park www.anp.hu Here a dragon is staring fixedly, over there a witch is doing magic and a giant is looking in wonder… This magical stalagmite fairytale land of Baradla Cave, the most magnificent dripstone cave of the temperate zone is undeniably an attractive spot for everyone. Baradla Cave however is not the only attraction of the National Park, which is listed as a UNESCO UN ESCO World World Heritage Site. Besides cave tours above ground guided walks on foot, horse or bicycle, walks in villages and handicraft programmes help the visitors to get acquainted with the natural and cultural heritage of the Aggtelek karst region. Those interested may also learn about and practice traditional bread baking baking..  Visitor and study centres: Borz Nature Trail (2.8 km) Kúria Study Centre (Jósvafő, Táncsics M. u. 1, Tel. el.:: +36/48/350-056, [email protected]) – lectures on nature, classroom and field exercises, handicraft programs,, open air grams ai r school as part of public education programs or as a leisure program. Open: M-F: 8 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. (other times by appointment)

(Szelcepuszta) – visitors learn about the local forest- and game management, typical forest types and the rich flora and fauna of local forests.

Nature trails:

Szádvár Nature Trail (4.5 km) (Szögliget) – features the ruins of the compelling Szádvár.

Baradla Nature Trail (7.5 km) – connects the Aggtelek and Jósvafő entrances of Baradla Cave. www.hungary.com

Fürkész Nature Trail (1.5 km) (Jósvafő) – offers visitors entertaining tasks and games.

Cave tours graded from easy to difficult in the six touristic caves of the karst region. (Baradla Cave, Béke Cave, Rákóczi Cave, Vass Imre Cave, Meteor Cave and Kossuth Cave).

Other demonstration sites:

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Open: campsite and wooden bungalows: 15th April to 15th October, hostel – open all year

Kövirózsa Apartment House (Aggtelek, Deák Ferenc u. 18, Tel. el.:: +36/48/503-005, [email protected]) szallas@anp .hu) – four apartments up to a total of 14 (+6 additional beds) persons. Open: all year Szalamandra House (Hostel) (Szögliget, Tel.: +36/30/631-1520,

[email protected]) – up to 60 guests, kitchen, lounge area, toilets and bathrooms. Open: all year

Hucul Stock (Jósvafő, Táncsics M. u. 1, Tel. el.:: +36/48/350-052; fax: +36/48/506-001) This is the designated site of gene preservation of the Hungarian stock of the ancient and distinctive Hucul breed of mountain horse; horse-riding, horse-riding for children, carriage riding and sleigh riding. Open: 1st April to 30th September

Tengerszem Hotel** and Tengerszem an d Training Centre (Jósvafő, Tengerszem oldal 1, Tel.: +36/48/506-005, [email protected]) – up to 43 persons. Also available: lecture hall up to 50 persons and/or meeting room up to 16 persons. The hotel also offers a dining facility: Tengerszem Restaurant. Open: all year

Monday-Sunday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 1st October to 31st March MondaySunday: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Did you know...

Kessler Hubert Memorial House (Jósvafő, Baradla oldal 3; Tel. el.:: +36/48/506-009) +36/4 8/506-009) – permanent exhibition commemorating the famous cave researcher. Open: 1st April to 30th September: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 1 st October to 31st March: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

 Accommodation: Baradla Campsite and Hostel (Aggtelek, Baradla oldal 1, Tel.: +36/48/503-005, [email protected]) – hostel accommodation up to 31 persons and a campsite.

• At 26 km, Baradla–Domica is the longest cave system in Hungary, and at 19 m Csillagvizsgáló (literally “Stargazer”) is the tallest stalagmite stalagmite?? • It is the only World Heritage Site in Hungary to gain the coveted designation in the natural heritage category? • This is the designated site of gene preservation of the Hungarian Hung arian stock of the ancient an cient and distinctive Hucul breed of mountain horse? • For the year 2010/11 Naturefriends International /NFI/ awarded the “Countryside of the Year” title to the Aggtelek karst region.

National Parks  Aggtelek National Park

Tohonya-Kuriszlán Nature Trail (8.4 km) (Jósvafő) – offers two routes, which can also be divided into two separate tours; the trail also features the gene preservation site of the Hucul breed of mountain horse.

Cave Tours:

Treasures above and below the surface – the Aggtelek National Park www.anp.hu Here a dragon is staring fixedly, over there a witch is doing magic and a giant is looking in wonder… This magical stalagmite fairytale land of Baradla Cave, the most magnificent dripstone cave of the temperate zone is undeniably an attractive spot for everyone. Baradla Cave however is not the only attraction of the National Park, which is listed as a UNESCO UN ESCO World World Heritage Site. Besides cave tours above ground guided walks on foot, horse or bicycle, walks in villages and handicraft programmes help the visitors to get acquainted with the natural and cultural heritage of the Aggtelek karst region. Those interested may also learn about and practice traditional bread baking baking..  Visitor and study centres: Borz Nature Trail (2.8 km) Kúria Study Centre (Jósvafő, Táncsics M. u. 1, Tel. el.:: +36/48/350-056, [email protected]) – lectures on nature, classroom and field exercises, handicraft programs,, open air grams ai r school as part of public education programs or as a leisure program. Open: M-F: 8 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. (other times by appointment)

(Szelcepuszta) – visitors learn about the local forest- and game management, typical forest types and the rich flora and fauna of local forests.

Nature trails:

Szádvár Nature Trail (4.5 km) (Szögliget) – features the ruins of the compelling Szádvár.

Baradla Nature Trail (7.5 km) – connects the Aggtelek and Jósvafő entrances of Baradla Cave.

Fürkész Nature Trail (1.5 km) (Jósvafő) – offers visitors entertaining tasks and games.

Cave tours graded from easy to difficult in the six touristic caves of the karst region. (Baradla Cave, Béke Cave, Rákóczi Cave, Vass Imre Cave, Meteor Cave and Kossuth Cave).

Other demonstration sites:

4 5

Open: campsite and wooden bungalows: 15th April to 15th October, hostel – open all year

Kövirózsa Apartment House (Aggtelek, Deák Ferenc u. 18, Tel. el.:: +36/48/503-005, [email protected]) szallas@anp .hu) – four apartments up to a total of 14 (+6 additional beds) persons. Open: all year Szalamandra House (Hostel) (Szögliget, Tel.: +36/30/631-1520,

[email protected]) – up to 60 guests, kitchen, lounge area, toilets and bathrooms. Open: all year

Hucul Stock (Jósvafő, Táncsics M. u. 1, Tel. el.:: +36/48/350-052; fax: +36/48/506-001) This is the designated site of gene preservation of the Hungarian stock of the ancient and distinctive Hucul breed of mountain horse; horse-riding, horse-riding for children, carriage riding and sleigh riding. Open: 1st April to 30th September

Tengerszem Hotel** and Tengerszem an d Training Centre (Jósvafő, Tengerszem oldal 1, Tel.: +36/48/506-005, [email protected]) – up to 43 persons. Also available: lecture hall up to 50 persons and/or meeting room up to 16 persons. The hotel also offers a dining facility: Tengerszem Restaurant. Open: all year

Monday-Sunday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 1st October to 31st March MondaySunday: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Did you know...

Kessler Hubert Memorial House (Jósvafő, Baradla oldal 3; Tel. el.:: +36/48/506-009) +36/4 8/506-009) – permanent exhibition commemorating the famous cave researcher. Open: 1st April to 30th September: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 1 st October to 31st March: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

 Accommodation: Baradla Campsite and Hostel (Aggtelek, Baradla oldal 1, Tel.: +36/48/503-005, [email protected]) – hostel accommodation up to 31 persons and a campsite.

• At 26 km, Baradla–Domica is the longest cave system in Hungary, and at 19 m Csillagvizsgáló (literally “Stargazer”) is the tallest stalagmite stalagmite?? • It is the only World Heritage Site in Hungary to gain the coveted designation in the natural heritage category? • This is the designated site of gene preservation of the Hungarian Hung arian stock of the ancient an cient and distinctive Hucul breed of mountain horse? • For the year 2010/11 Naturefriends International /NFI/ awarded the “Countryside of the Year” title to the Aggtelek karst region.

www.hungary.com

National Parks

Balaton Uplands National Park

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Lóczy Cave (Balatonfüred, Tel.: Tel.: +36/87/555-291) +36/87/555- 291)

– spectacular limestone layers, visitors are allowed to visit a 50 m long section of the cave. Open: 1st May to 30th September: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; other times by appointment (minimum 15 persons)

What’s blooming here? The greenness of Lake Balaton! – Balaton Uplands

www.bfnp.hu

Discover the quieter, greener side of life near Lake Balaton! Observe a great crested grebe as it goes about its daily business; wander in the gentle hills, pet ancient breeds of Hungarian domestic animals! Demonstration sites: Csodabogyós Cave (Balatonederics, Tel. el.:: +36/30/306-6050, +36/30/237-3759, www.csodabogyos.hu) – underground adventures of a dripstone cave. Open: all year by appointment only.

Diás Island (Fenékpuszta, Tel.: +36/30/664-0404) – István Fekete Memorial Room, Matula Hut. Open: 1st April to 30th September Tuesday-Friday: 10 a.m. The tour leaves from Kis-Balaton Research House, own transport needed. Only available with tour guides!

top of a basalt volcano, with a walk in its extinct crater. Open: all year from 9 a.m. until sunset. Kápolnapuszta, Buffalo Reserve (Zalakomár, Tel.: +36/87/555-291)

– a fantastic site at Kis-Balaton, with wallowing buffalo, exhibitions and picnic areas. Open: 1st April to 31st October: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. 1st November to 31st March: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Kotsy Water Mill (Zalaszántó, Tel.: +36/30/6847-329) – relics from the age of mills, functioning milling machines in a renovated mill building. Hegyestű Geological Open: 15th March to 15th October Tuesday-Sunday: 10 a.m. to Demonstration Site (Monoszló, Tel.: +36/30/620-4082) 5 p.m., other times by appoint– lavish panorama view from the ment. www.hungary.com

Salföld Manor (Tel (T el.:.: +36/87/702-857) – ancient type domestic animals, herb garden, carriage riding. Open: 15th March to 30th April and 1st September to 15 th November: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 1 st May to 31st August: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Lake Cave of Tapolca (Tapolca, Tel.: +36/87/412-579) – unforgettable boating under the ground. Open: 15th March to 30th June, 1st September to 31 st October: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 1 st July to 31 st  August: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; 1 st November to 14th March Tuesday Tuesday,, Thursday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information about the nature trails please visit our website.

Lavender Open Air School, Tourist Hostel (Tihany-Sajkod, Tel. el.:: +36/30/382-7243, [email protected]) – up to 34 persons; open-air school programs. Open: 1st March to 31st October Park Villa B&B (Csopak, Kossuth u. 16, Tel.: +36/87/555-265, +36/30/491-0105, [email protected]) – located in a peaceful 2 hectare park offering 14 rooms up to 31 persons. Open: 1st April to 31st October

Did you know...

• You can move a huge rock in the Sea of Stones at Szentbékkálla? • You can walk in fragrant laven Accommodation: der meadows on the Tihany Peninsula? House of Forests Tourist Hostel (Bakonybél, Szent Gellért tér 9, • You can pet buffalo and enjoy Tel. el.:: +36/88/461-245, bird watching at Kis-Balaton? [email protected]) erdokhaza@freemail .hu) – up to • You can clamber through 30 persons, located at the quiet the exciting branches of the part of the village. Csodabogyós Cave at Balatonederics? Open: all year • You can climb extinct volcanoes in the th e Tapolca Tapolca Basin? Open Air School Tourist Hostel (Bakonybél, Tel. el.:: +36/20/361-0342, [email protected]) – up to 31 persons; open air school programs. Open: 1st March to 31st October

National Parks

Balaton Uplands National Park

6 7

Lóczy Cave (Balatonfüred, Tel.: Tel.: +36/87/555-291) +36/87/555- 291)

– spectacular limestone layers, visitors are allowed to visit a 50 m long section of the cave. Open: 1st May to 30th September: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; other times by appointment (minimum 15 persons)

What’s blooming here? The greenness of Lake Balaton! – Balaton Uplands

www.bfnp.hu

Discover the quieter, greener side of life near Lake Balaton! Observe a great crested grebe as it goes about its daily business; wander in the gentle hills, pet ancient breeds of Hungarian domestic animals! Demonstration sites: Csodabogyós Cave (Balatonederics, Tel. el.:: +36/30/306-6050, +36/30/237-3759, www.csodabogyos.hu) – underground adventures of a dripstone cave. Open: all year by appointment only.

Diás Island (Fenékpuszta, Tel.: +36/30/664-0404) – István Fekete Memorial Room, Matula Hut. Open: 1st April to 30th September Tuesday-Friday: 10 a.m. The tour leaves from Kis-Balaton Research House, own transport needed. Only available with tour guides!

top of a basalt volcano, with a walk in its extinct crater. Open: all year from 9 a.m. until sunset. Kápolnapuszta, Buffalo Reserve (Zalakomár, Tel.: +36/87/555-291)

– a fantastic site at Kis-Balaton, with wallowing buffalo, exhibitions and picnic areas. Open: 1st April to 31st October: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. 1st November to 31st March: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Kotsy Water Mill (Zalaszántó, Tel.: +36/30/6847-329) – relics from the age of mills, functioning milling machines in a renovated mill building. Hegyestű Geological Open: 15th March to 15th October Tuesday-Sunday: 10 a.m. to Demonstration Site (Monoszló, Tel.: +36/30/620-4082) 5 p.m., other times by appoint– lavish panorama view from the ment.

Salföld Manor (Tel (T el.:.: +36/87/702-857) – ancient type domestic animals, herb garden, carriage riding. Open: 15th March to 30th April and 1st September to 15 th November: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 1 st May to 31st August: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Lake Cave of Tapolca (Tapolca, Tel.: +36/87/412-579) – unforgettable boating under the ground. Open: 15th March to 30th June, 1st September to 31 st October: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 1 st July to 31 st  August: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; 1 st November to 14th March Tuesday Tuesday,, Thursday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information about the nature trails please visit our website.

Lavender Open Air School, Tourist Hostel (Tihany-Sajkod, Tel. el.:: +36/30/382-7243, [email protected]) – up to 34 persons; open-air school programs. Open: 1st March to 31st October Park Villa B&B (Csopak, Kossuth u. 16, Tel.: +36/87/555-265, +36/30/491-0105, [email protected]) – located in a peaceful 2 hectare park offering 14 rooms up to 31 persons. Open: 1st April to 31st October

Did you know...

• You can move a huge rock in the Sea of Stones at Szentbékkálla? • You can walk in fragrant laven Accommodation: der meadows on the Tihany Peninsula? House of Forests Tourist Hostel (Bakonybél, Szent Gellért tér 9, • You can pet buffalo and enjoy Tel. el.:: +36/88/461-245, bird watching at Kis-Balaton? [email protected]) erdokhaza@freemail .hu) – up to • You can clamber through 30 persons, located at the quiet the exciting branches of the part of the village. Csodabogyós Cave at Balatonederics? Open: all year • You can climb extinct volcanoes in the th e Tapolca Tapolca Basin? Open Air School Tourist Hostel (Bakonybél, Tel. el.:: +36/20/361-0342, [email protected]) – up to 31 persons; open air school programs. Open: 1st March to 31st October

www.hungary.com

National Parks

Bükk National Park

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Other demonstration sites: Anna Cave (Lillafüred, Tel./fax: +36/46/334-130) – tuffaceous limestone cave open to visitors, no special equipment required. Open: 1st April to 30th September every day: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last guided tour leaves at 4 p.m.). Guided tours leave every day on the hour with minimum 10 persons.

Karst plateau above the forests – the Bükk National Park

www.bnpi.hu

The endless forests of Bükk Plateau standing at the highest average height of Hungary are diversi fied by caves and blossoming mountain meadows. The National Park has sign-posted walking trails and cycle network, spectacular views at the “stones” and various demonstration sites, all offering unforgettable experience for both adults and children.  Visitor and study centres:

Olasz-kapu Nature Trail (7.2 km)

Western Gate Visitor and Study Centre (Felsőtárkány, Ifjúság u. 34/1, Tel: +36/36/534-078) – „Flora and fauna of the Karst” exhibition introduces the geological, zoological and botanical values of the Bükk; open air school. Open: 15th April to 15th October Wednesday-Sunday: 10 a.m a.m.. to 4 p.m.

– showing the cliffs and wide mountain meadows of the southern borders of Bükk Plateau.

Nature trails:

Szalajka Valley Nature Trail (4.2 km) (Szilvásvárad) – a very popular trail with plenty of interesting informations about the Bükk’s cultural and natural heritage. Tamás-kúti Nature Trail (7 km) (access via Eger–Lillafüred route) – a trail leaving from Kis-Som Spring, passing by Imó-kő and Zsindelybánya Moor showing the area’s industrial in dustrial heritage, seasonal karst springs and other natural heritage h eritage..

Felsőtárkány Nature Trail“triple circuit” (0.8 km, 2.6 km, 10 km) – showcasing the spectacular K ő-közi rocky gorge and the For more information about other geological formation of Vár-hegy. nature trails of the National Park please visit vi sit the Directorate Directorate’s ’s website. www.hungary.com

Szent István Cave (Lillafüred, Tel./fax: +36/46/334-130)

– beautiful dripstone cave open to visitors. Country House Museum (Hollókő, Kossuth út 99-100. Open: 1st April to 30th September: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last guided Tel.:+36/70/201-5546, tour leaves at 5 p.m.), 1st October +36/32/379-157) to 31st March: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. – „Landscape and people people”” exhibition introduces the history (last guided tour leaves at 2 p.m.). of the Landscape Protection  Area, the Palóc cultural heritage  Accommodation: and memories of century long small-scale farming. Western Gate Visitor and Study Open: 1st March to 31st October: Centre, Open Air School 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., 1 st November (Felsőtárkány, Ifjúság u. 34/1., th to 28 February SaturdayTel el.. /fax: +36/36/534-078, Sunday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. +36/30/239-7347) – accommodation up to 40 persons, communal areas, covered activity area in the park, open air school. Ipolytarnóc Paleontological Site Nature Conservation Rejtek Research House  Accommodation up to 47 perArea, Demonstration Site (Tel./fax: +36/32/454-113, sons, recommended mainly for [email protected], ipolytarnoc.kvvm.hu) – open to visitors, paleontological site available with guides only, nature trail network without guides; 4D cinema in the state-of-the art visitor centre invites visitors to take a  journey back to the Miocene Age. Open: March-November, Wednesday-Sunday and bank holidays holidays:: 9.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m.; guided tours leave on the half hour.

Millennium lookout tower (Szilvásvárad, Kalapat-tet ő, by appointment only: Tel.: +36/30/910-2037) year, WednesdayWedne sdayOpen: all year, Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bad weather conditions: closed.

student groups, open air school.

Did you know...

• Hungary’s most extensive network of forest cycle paths is here? • The area’s three narrow gauge railways (Szalajka Valley, Lillafüred and Felsőtárkány) run over 45 km of track? • At a depth of over 252 m, the 6,5 km long Istvánlápa Cave is the deepest cave in Hungary?

National Parks

Bükk National Park

8 9

Other demonstration sites: Anna Cave (Lillafüred, Tel./fax: +36/46/334-130) – tuffaceous limestone cave open to visitors, no special equipment required. Open: 1st April to 30th September every day: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last guided tour leaves at 4 p.m.). Guided tours leave every day on the hour with minimum 10 persons.

Karst plateau above the forests – the Bükk National Park

www.bnpi.hu

The endless forests of Bükk Plateau standing at the highest average height of Hungary are diversi fied by caves and blossoming mountain meadows. The National Park has sign-posted walking trails and cycle network, spectacular views at the “stones” and various demonstration sites, all offering unforgettable experience for both adults and children.  Visitor and study centres:

Olasz-kapu Nature Trail (7.2 km)

Western Gate Visitor and Study Centre (Felsőtárkány, Ifjúság u. 34/1, Tel: +36/36/534-078) – „Flora and fauna of the Karst” exhibition introduces the geological, zoological and botanical values of the Bükk; open air school. Open: 15th April to 15th October Wednesday-Sunday: 10 a.m a.m.. to 4 p.m.

– showing the cliffs and wide mountain meadows of the southern borders of Bükk Plateau.

Nature trails:

Szalajka Valley Nature Trail (4.2 km) (Szilvásvárad) – a very popular trail with plenty of interesting informations about the Bükk’s cultural and natural heritage. Tamás-kúti Nature Trail (7 km) (access via Eger–Lillafüred route) – a trail leaving from Kis-Som Spring, passing by Imó-kő and Zsindelybánya Moor showing the area’s industrial in dustrial heritage, seasonal karst springs and other natural heritage h eritage..

Felsőtárkány Nature Trail“triple circuit” (0.8 km, 2.6 km, 10 km) – showcasing the spectacular K ő-közi rocky gorge and the For more information about other geological formation of Vár-hegy. nature trails of the National Park please visit vi sit the Directorate Directorate’s ’s website.

Szent István Cave (Lillafüred, Tel./fax: +36/46/334-130)

– beautiful dripstone cave open to visitors. Country House Museum (Hollókő, Kossuth út 99-100. Open: 1st April to 30th September: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last guided Tel.:+36/70/201-5546, tour leaves at 5 p.m.), 1st October +36/32/379-157) to 31st March: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. – „Landscape and people people”” exhibition introduces the history (last guided tour leaves at 2 p.m.). of the Landscape Protection  Area, the Palóc cultural heritage  Accommodation: and memories of century long small-scale farming. Western Gate Visitor and Study Open: 1st March to 31st October: Centre, Open Air School 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., 1 st November (Felsőtárkány, Ifjúság u. 34/1., to 28th February SaturdayTel el.. /fax: +36/36/534-078, Sunday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. +36/30/239-7347) – accommodation up to 40 persons, communal areas, covered activity area in the park, open air school. Ipolytarnóc Paleontological Site Nature Conservation Rejtek Research House  Accommodation up to 47 perArea, Demonstration Site (Tel./fax: +36/32/454-113, sons, recommended mainly for [email protected], ipolytarnoc.kvvm.hu) – open to visitors, paleontological site available with guides only, nature trail network without guides; 4D cinema in the state-of-the art visitor centre invites visitors to take a  journey back to the Miocene Age. Open: March-November, Wednesday-Sunday and bank holidays holidays:: 9.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m.; guided tours leave on the half hour.

student groups, open air school.

Did you know...

• Hungary’s most extensive network of forest cycle paths is here? • The area’s three narrow gauge railways (Szalajka Valley, Lillafüred and Felsőtárkány) run over 45 km of track? • At a depth of over 252 m, the 6,5 km long Istvánlápa Cave is the deepest cave in Hungary?

Millennium lookout tower (Szilvásvárad, Kalapat-tet ő, by appointment only: Tel.: +36/30/910-2037) year, WednesdayWedne sdayOpen: all year, Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bad weather conditions: closed.

www.hungary.com

National Parks

Duna–Dráva National Park 10 11

Cave of Mészégető Springs (Orfű, Tel.:.: +36/72/518-221, +36/ 72/518-221, +36/72/518-222) – underground cave adventures in overalls with tour guides. year,, by appointment only onl y. Open: all year

Mohács Historical Memorial Site

 Adventures in the wild by majestic rivers – the Duna–Dráva National Park www.ddnp.hu Wooded floodplains on the right side of the River Danube, narrow gauge railway at Gemenc, Holt-Duna branch at Nyék, Mohács… Barcs Juniper Grove on the left side of the River Danube, „brisk meadows of Drávaszentes”, Babócsa… antlers awarded world champion trophies, resettled European beaver, strictly protected white-tailed eagle, black stork, a paradise for birds ... extensive loop and oxbow lakes represent a unique value in Europe…  Visitor and education centres: Dráva Gate Visitor Centre (Barcs-Drávaszentes, Fő u. 1; Tel.: +36/82/461-285) – interactive exhibition about nature, home to indigenous Hungarian farm animals, Üde Rétek Natural Trail, activities for children, summer camps. Open: education centre: Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m p.m.;.; exhibition exhibi tion about nature: 15th March to 31st October Tuesday-Sunday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 1 st November to 14th March by appointment only. Tettye Education Centre Tettye (Pécs, Tettye tér 8,

Open: Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m a.m.. to 4 p.m., Friday: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Other demonstration sites: Kölked White Stork Museum and Nagypartos Nature Trail (2.5 km) (Kölked, Széchenyi u. 1., Tel. el.:: +36/30/846-6020) – exhibition, interactive programs about nature, handicraft programs, prog rams, walking tours and tours by canoe. Open: all year

Other demonstration sites within the operational area of the Directorate:

Abaliget Cave and Bat Museum (Abaliget, Tel.:.: +36/72/498-766, + 36/72/498-766, Tel.: +36/72/517-222) – iinteractive nteractive +36/72/498-684) – excellent clilessons and study tours about mate, study programs and other nature, handicraft programmes, programmes, programs prog rams for children. summer camps, all al l year. year. Open: all year www.hungary.com

(Sátorhely; Tel.: +36/69/382-130) – guided tours available, archery activities. Open: 12th March-15th March: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; 1 st April to 24th October: daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; 25th October to 7th November: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., other times by appointment.

Pintér-Garden Arboretum (Pécs, Tettye tér 9, Tel. el.:: +36/72/517-200) – guided tours available, available, ideal venue for wedding photography. Open: all year Szársomlyó (Nagyharsány, Szoborpark, Tel. el.:: +36/20/913-7534) – guided tours only. Open: all year, by appointment only; guided tours leave on Wednesday-Sunday at 10. a.m a.m.. Tuffaceous limestone cave at Tettye (Pécs, Tettye u. Tel. el.:: +36/30/580-3424, +36/72/211-830) – interactive exhibition inside, cultural programs,, temporary exhibitions programs and ideal venue for weddings and various events.

Dráva Gate Visitor Centre (Barcs-Drávaszentes,, Fő u. 1, (Barcs-Drávaszentes

Tel.: +36/82/461-285, +36/30/474-3591) – 2 rooms up to 6 persons. Open: all year

Drávatamási (Drávatamási, Fő u. 52.; Tel.: +36/82/461-285, +36/30/474-3591) – located on the River Dráva embankment, 2 rooms up to 6 persons. Open: all year

Pintér-kerti Guest House (Pécs-Tettye, Kiss József utca; Tel.: +36/72/518-221, +36/30/326-9459) – one room up to 3 persons. Open: all year Szentborbás (Szentborbás, Tel.: +36/30/641-8731,

+36/30/689-6760) – located directly on the River Dráva embankment, one room up to 4 persons. Open: all year

year,, by appointment only onl y. Open: all year

Did you know...

 Accommodation: Abaliget – Bat Museum (Tel (T el.:.: +36/72/518-222, +36/30/326-9459, +36/30/377-3388) – 2 rooms up to 7 persons. Open: all year

• Hungary’s Hungary’s largest wooded floodplain is at Gemenc and Béda–Karapancsa? • Hungary’s largest populations populat ions of white-tailed eagle and black stork are found here?

National Parks

Duna–Dráva National Park 10 11

Cave of Mészégető Springs (Orfű, Tel.:.: +36/72/518-221, +36/ 72/518-221, +36/72/518-222) – underground cave adventures in overalls with tour guides. year,, by appointment only onl y. Open: all year

Mohács Historical Memorial Site

 Adventures in the wild by majestic rivers – the Duna–Dráva National Park www.ddnp.hu Wooded floodplains on the right side of the River Danube, narrow gauge railway at Gemenc, Holt-Duna branch at Nyék, Mohács… Barcs Juniper Grove on the left side of the River Danube, „brisk meadows of Drávaszentes”, Babócsa… antlers awarded world champion trophies, resettled European beaver, strictly protected white-tailed eagle, black stork, a paradise for birds ... extensive loop and oxbow lakes represent a unique value in Europe…  Visitor and education centres: Dráva Gate Visitor Centre (Barcs-Drávaszentes, Fő u. 1; Tel.: +36/82/461-285) – interactive exhibition about nature, home to indigenous Hungarian farm animals, Üde Rétek Natural Trail, activities for children, summer camps. Open: education centre: Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m p.m.;.; exhibition exhibi tion about nature: 15th March to 31st October Tuesday-Sunday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 1 st November to 14th March by appointment only.

Open: Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m a.m.. to 4 p.m., Friday: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Other demonstration sites: Kölked White Stork Museum and Nagypartos Nature Trail (2.5 km) (Kölked, Széchenyi u. 1., Tel. el.:: +36/30/846-6020) – exhibition, interactive programs about nature, handicraft programs, prog rams, walking tours and tours by canoe. Open: all year

Other demonstration sites within the operational area of the Directorate:

Tettye Education Centre Tettye (Pécs, Tettye tér 8,

Abaliget Cave and Bat Museum (Abaliget, Tel.:.: +36/72/498-766, + 36/72/498-766, Tel.: +36/72/517-222) – iinteractive nteractive +36/72/498-684) – excellent clilessons and study tours about mate, study programs and other nature, handicraft programmes, programmes, programs prog rams for children. summer camps, all al l year. year. Open: all year

(Sátorhely; Tel.: +36/69/382-130) – guided tours available, archery activities. Open: 12th March-15th March: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; 1 st April to 24th October: daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; 25th October to 7th November: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., other times by appointment.

Pintér-Garden Arboretum (Pécs, Tettye tér 9, Tel. el.:: +36/72/517-200) – guided tours available, available, ideal venue for wedding photography. Open: all year Szársomlyó (Nagyharsány, Szoborpark, Tel. el.:: +36/20/913-7534) – guided tours only. Open: all year, by appointment only; guided tours leave on Wednesday-Sunday at 10. a.m a.m.. Tuffaceous limestone cave at Tettye (Pécs, Tettye u. Tel. el.:: +36/30/580-3424, +36/72/211-830) – interactive exhibition inside, cultural programs,, temporary exhibitions programs and ideal venue for weddings and various events.

Dráva Gate Visitor Centre (Barcs-Drávaszentes,, Fő u. 1, (Barcs-Drávaszentes

Tel.: +36/82/461-285, +36/30/474-3591) – 2 rooms up to 6 persons. Open: all year

Drávatamási (Drávatamási, Fő u. 52.; Tel.: +36/82/461-285, +36/30/474-3591) – located on the River Dráva embankment, 2 rooms up to 6 persons. Open: all year

Pintér-kerti Guest House (Pécs-Tettye, Kiss József utca; Tel.: +36/72/518-221, +36/30/326-9459) – one room up to 3 persons. Open: all year Szentborbás (Szentborbás, Tel.: +36/30/641-8731,

+36/30/689-6760) – located directly on the River Dráva embankment, one room up to 4 persons. Open: all year

year,, by appointment only onl y. Open: all year

Did you know...

• Hungary’s Hungary’s largest wooded floodplain is at Gemenc and Béda–Karapancsa? • Hungary’s largest populations populat ions of white-tailed eagle and black stork are found here?

 Accommodation: Abaliget – Bat Museum (Tel (T el.:.: +36/72/518-222, +36/30/326-9459, +36/30/377-3388) – 2 rooms up to 7 persons. Open: all year

www.hungary.com

National Parks

Duna–Ipoly National Park

12 13

Other demonstration sites within the operational area of the Directorate: Alcsút Arboretum (Alcsútdoboz, Tel. el.:: +36/20/424-8995; www.alcsutiarboretum.hu) – centenary tree giants, ruins of classicist Habsb Habsburg urg Castle, chapel, doll house. Open: Monday-Sunday from 10 a.m. until sunset.

Sas-hegy Visitor Centre (Budapest, 11th district, Tájék u. 26, Tel.: +36/30/408-4370,

Empire of the long-horned beetle – the Duna–Ipoly National Park www.dinpi.hu The Ipoly Valley’s unspoiled beauty and the spectacular views from the Börzsöny Mountains, Szentendre Island locked in by the River Danube and the ever enticing Danube Bend; all these bring to mind the pleasures of  boating, woodland picnics, and romantic sunsets. Take a walk in the fairytale cave or marvel at the birds at the Fertő bird sanctuary at Dinnyés or in the Turján marshlands at Ócsa! Demonstration Sites:

Nature Trails:

Királyrét Open Air Schoo Schooll (Szokolya–Királyrét, Tel. el.:: +36/27/585-625) – guided tours in Börzsöny B örzsöny,, open air school and kindergarten programs, programs, handicraft handi craft programs. Open: all year, by appointment only.

Apródok útja Nature Trail (7.2 km) (Drégelypalánk) – flora and fauna of the forests and lakes,, cultural history lakes his tory of the area, unique panorama from Drégely Castle

Kökörcsin (Meadow Anemone) Open Air School (Esztergom-Kertváros,, Suzuki út, (Esztergom-Kertváros Tel. el.:: +36/30/663-4614) – bird watching and a walk learning about dens, water biological tests, lectures on game, guided tours available. Open: all year, by appointment only.

www.hungary.com

Páskom legelő Nature Trail (3 km) (Dejtár) – the largest reedy area of Ipoly Valley with rich avifauna. Strázsa-hegy Nature Trail (1.2 km) (Esztergom) – sand swallow and bee-eater colonies, unique views from the lookout tower on the top of the hill. For more information about other nature trails of the National Park please visit the Directorate’s website.

Ócsa Landhouse and Turján House (Ócsa, Dr. Békési Panyik Andor u. 4-6, Tel.:.: +36/30/494-3368, +36/ 30/494-3368, www.ocsaitajhaz.hu) – rich folklore collection, doll exhibition, handicraft activities, demonstrations of minor professions, guided tours availab available le on study trails. Open: 1st February to 30th November Tuesday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday-Sunday and bank holidays: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

www.sas-hegy.hu) – interactive exhibition about the flora and fauna of the area, guided tours available availab le for the nature natu re trail. Open: 1st March to 31st October Tuesday, Saturday-Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Szemlő-hegy Cave (Budapest, 2nd district, Pusztaszeri út 35, Tel.: +36/1/325-6001) – cave tours, clean therapeutic air. Open: every day10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday: closed. close d.

Pál-völgy Cave (Budapest, 2nd district, Szépvölgyi út 162, Tel.:.: +36/1/325-9505) +36/1/325-9505 )  Accommodation: – cave tours in the second long- Királyrét Open Air School est cave system in Hungary. (Szokolya–Királyrét) Open: Tuesday-Sunday 10 a.m. – rooms accommodating 3-6-8 persons up to 41 persons, rooms to 4 p.m.

Pilis Flax Visitor Centre (Pilisszentiván, Bányász u. 17., Tel. el.:: +36/30/663-4669; www.szenas. hu) – exhibition on nature, professional guided tours available availab le for Nagy Nagy-Szénás -Szénás and Jági Nature Trails. Open: all year, by appointment only.

for 2 persons with shower up to 10 persons. Open: all year by appointment only,, for appointments please call: only cal l: +36/27/585-625.

Did you know...

• Pilis flax grows in the Szénások area, and nowhere else in the world? • Three narrow gauge railways run in the Börzsöny Mountains?

National Parks

Duna–Ipoly National Park

12 13

Other demonstration sites within the operational area of the Directorate: Alcsút Arboretum (Alcsútdoboz, Tel. el.:: +36/20/424-8995; www.alcsutiarboretum.hu) – centenary tree giants, ruins of classicist Habsb Habsburg urg Castle, chapel, doll house. Open: Monday-Sunday from 10 a.m. until sunset.

Sas-hegy Visitor Centre (Budapest, 11th district, Tájék u. 26, Tel.: +36/30/408-4370,

Empire of the long-horned beetle – the Duna–Ipoly National Park www.dinpi.hu The Ipoly Valley’s unspoiled beauty and the spectacular views from the Börzsöny Mountains, Szentendre Island locked in by the River Danube and the ever enticing Danube Bend; all these bring to mind the pleasures of  boating, woodland picnics, and romantic sunsets. Take a walk in the fairytale cave or marvel at the birds at the Fertő bird sanctuary at Dinnyés or in the Turján marshlands at Ócsa! Demonstration Sites:

Nature Trails:

Királyrét Open Air Schoo Schooll (Szokolya–Királyrét, Tel. el.:: +36/27/585-625) – guided tours in Börzsöny B örzsöny,, open air school and kindergarten programs, programs, handicraft handi craft programs. Open: all year, by appointment only.

Apródok útja Nature Trail (7.2 km) (Drégelypalánk) – flora and fauna of the forests and lakes,, cultural history lakes his tory of the area, unique panorama from Drégely Castle

Kökörcsin (Meadow Anemone) Open Air School (Esztergom-Kertváros,, Suzuki út, (Esztergom-Kertváros Tel. el.:: +36/30/663-4614) – bird watching and a walk learning about dens, water biological tests, lectures on game, guided tours available. Open: all year, by appointment only.

Páskom legelő Nature Trail (3 km) (Dejtár) – the largest reedy area of Ipoly Valley with rich avifauna. Strázsa-hegy Nature Trail (1.2 km) (Esztergom) – sand swallow and bee-eater colonies, unique views from the lookout tower on the top of the hill. For more information about other nature trails of the National Park please visit the Directorate’s website.

Ócsa Landhouse and Turján House (Ócsa, Dr. Békési Panyik Andor u. 4-6, Tel.:.: +36/30/494-3368, +36/ 30/494-3368, www.ocsaitajhaz.hu) – rich folklore collection, doll exhibition, handicraft activities, demonstrations of minor professions, guided tours availab available le on study trails. Open: 1st February to 30th November Tuesday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday-Sunday and bank holidays: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

www.sas-hegy.hu) – interactive exhibition about the flora and fauna of the area, guided tours available availab le for the nature natu re trail. Open: 1st March to 31st October Tuesday, Saturday-Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Szemlő-hegy Cave (Budapest, 2nd district, Pusztaszeri út 35, Tel.: +36/1/325-6001) – cave tours, clean therapeutic air. Open: every day10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday: closed. close d.

Pál-völgy Cave (Budapest, 2nd district, Szépvölgyi út 162, Tel.:.: +36/1/325-9505) +36/1/325-9505 )  Accommodation: – cave tours in the second long- Királyrét Open Air School est cave system in Hungary. (Szokolya–Királyrét) Open: Tuesday-Sunday 10 a.m. – rooms accommodating 3-6-8 persons up to 41 persons, rooms to 4 p.m.

Pilis Flax Visitor Centre (Pilisszentiván, Bányász u. 17., Tel. el.:: +36/30/663-4669; www.szenas. hu) – exhibition on nature, professional guided tours available availab le for Nagy Nagy-Szénás -Szénás and Jági Nature Trails. Open: all year, by appointment only.

for 2 persons with shower up to 10 persons. Open: all year by appointment only,, for appointments please call: only cal l: +36/27/585-625.

Did you know...

• Pilis flax grows in the Szénások area, and nowhere else in the world? • Three narrow gauge railways run in the Börzsöny Mountains?

www.hungary.com

National Parks

Fertő–Hanság National Park 14 15

Other demonstration sites: May-Aug.: Mon.-Sun. 9 a.m. to Esterházy Bird Observation Centre

 Adventures in the empire of  wild geese – the th e Fertő Fertő–Hanság  www.ferto-hansag.hu National Park This marshy western gateway to Hungary is a land where myths and legends tell of the area’s mysterious past. Much may have changed since then, and today the National Park straddles the border with Austria, but the Fertő and Hanság areas remain outstandingly rich in natural treasures and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Visitor and education centre: Csapody István Nature School and Visitor Centre (Fertőújlak, Petőfi S. u. 23/A, Tel. el.:: +36/99/537-520, [email protected]) – permanent exhibition about the wildlife of Fertő-Hanság National Park. Open: 2nd - 31st March Mon.-Fri.: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 1 st April to 30th Sep. Mon.-Fri.: 9 a.m. a. m. to 5 p.m p.m.,., Sat.-Sun. and on bank holidays holidays:: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 1 st Oct. to 30 th Nov. Mon.-Fri.: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., other times by appointment.

Nature trails:

surface. Open: 1st April to 31st October: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; 1st November to 31st March: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Kócsagvár (Sarród, Rév-Kócsagvár, Tel. el.:: +36/99/537-620, [email protected]) – historical exhibition, conference hall, open air school. Open: all year

Sopron Botanical Garden (Sopron, Bajcsy-Zsilinszky u. 4., Tel. el.:: +36/99/518-184, botanikuskert.nyme.hu) – the evergreen collection of the protected gardens gardens.. Open: 1st May to 30th Sep.: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; 1 st Oct. to 30th  April: 8 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

 Accommodation:

of Istók Hany, who accordingly to the local myths was found here. The route starts from the Esterházy Bird Observation Centre, passing through the alders (Csíkos Égererdő) and marshes of the Hanság (Király Lake).

Kócsagvár (Sarród, Rév–Kócsagvár, Tel. el.:: +36/99/537-520) Saline lakes at Mekszikópuszta – 10 rooms with 28 beds, up to (Fertőújlak) – lookout towers of- 44 persons (including fold-away fer spectacular views to the rich double-beds). avifauna of shallow s hallow saline lakes. Open: all day

Sziki Őszirózsa (Sea aster) Nature trail (4 km) (Sarród-Fertőújlak) – a nature trail suitable for walkers and cyclists,, offering an insight cyclists i nsight into the flora and fauna of saline lakes and plains located north of Sarród and presents traditional Hungarian Hungar ian domestic animals.

Nyirkai-Hany (Bősárkány) – great views of the rich wildlife of the Hanság area from a lookout tower.

“Tőzike” (Lecuojum) Nature trail (4 km) (Csáfordjánosfa)

– alongside Stream Répce, a mixture of oak, elm and ash forIstók Hany Nature trail (5 km) (Osli-Földsziget) – a fascinating est. Millions of flowering lecuoexcursion following the footsteps  jum (snow flake) in the forest. www.hungary.com

8 p.m. Sep.: Mon.-Sun. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Földsziget, Tel.: +36/99/537-520) Oct.: Mon.-Sun. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. – hundreds of fascinating bird and inspect specimens native to Mortlake (Morotva-tó), Lipót the Hanság. – great views from a look lookout out tower of the oxbow lake’s wildlife, Open: by appointment only. including colourful bird colonies. Fertőrákos Quarry (Fertőrákos, Fő u. 1, Pannonhalma Arboretum Tel. el.:: +36/99/355-026, (Pannonhalma, Vár u. 1., www.kofejto.hu) Tel. el.:: +36/96/570-191, – caves and cavities created www.bences.hu) during Lajta limestone mining – protected botanical garden. activities, protected plants on the Open: all year

Did you know...

• After a hundred years’ absence, there are ospreys nesting at Fertő? • Early spider orchids, once Other demonstration sites thought to be extinct are now within the operational area found again growing in the of the Directorate: area? • on the southern coast of Lake Károly lookout tower (Sopron) – spectacular views Fertő frog tunnel systems and from the lookout tower to Károlywet passages ensure the safe magaslat, also offers a botanical spring and autumn migration of exhibition. amphibians? N ov.-Dec.: .-Dec.: Open: Jan.-Feb., Nov Sat.-Sun. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. March: Tue.-Sun. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  April: Tue.-Sun. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

National Parks

Fertő–Hanság National Park 14 15

Other demonstration sites: May-Aug.: Mon.-Sun. 9 a.m. to Esterházy Bird Observation Centre

 Adventures in the empire of  wild geese – the th e Fertő Fertő–Hanság  www.ferto-hansag.hu National Park This marshy western gateway to Hungary is a land where myths and legends tell of the area’s mysterious past. Much may have changed since then, and today the National Park straddles the border with Austria, but the Fertő and Hanság areas remain outstandingly rich in natural treasures and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Visitor and education centre: Csapody István Nature School and Visitor Centre (Fertőújlak, Petőfi S. u. 23/A, Tel. el.:: +36/99/537-520, [email protected]) – permanent exhibition about the wildlife of Fertő-Hanság National Park. Open: 2nd - 31st March Mon.-Fri.: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 1 st April to 30th Sep. Mon.-Fri.: 9 a.m. a. m. to 5 p.m p.m.,., Sat.-Sun. and on bank holidays holidays:: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; 1 st Oct. to 30 th Nov. Mon.-Fri.: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., other times by appointment.

Nature trails:

8 p.m. Sep.: Mon.-Sun. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Földsziget, Tel.: +36/99/537-520) Oct.: Mon.-Sun. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. – hundreds of fascinating bird and inspect specimens native to Mortlake (Morotva-tó), Lipót the Hanság. – great views from a look lookout out tower of the oxbow lake’s wildlife, Open: by appointment only. including colourful bird colonies. Fertőrákos Quarry (Fertőrákos, Fő u. 1, Pannonhalma Arboretum Tel. el.:: +36/99/355-026, (Pannonhalma, Vár u. 1., www.kofejto.hu) Tel. el.:: +36/96/570-191, – caves and cavities created www.bences.hu) during Lajta limestone mining – protected botanical garden. activities, protected plants on the Open: all year surface. Open: 1st April to 31st October: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; 1st November to 31st March: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Kócsagvár (Sarród, Rév-Kócsagvár, Tel. el.:: +36/99/537-620, [email protected]) – historical exhibition, conference hall, open air school. Open: all year

Sopron Botanical Garden (Sopron, Bajcsy-Zsilinszky u. 4., Tel. el.:: +36/99/518-184, botanikuskert.nyme.hu) – the evergreen collection of the protected gardens gardens.. Open: 1st May to 30th Sep.: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; 1 st Oct. to 30th  April: 8 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

 Accommodation:

of Istók Hany, who accordingly to the local myths was found here. The route starts from the Esterházy Bird Observation Centre, passing through the alders (Csíkos Égererdő) and marshes of the Hanság (Király Lake).

Kócsagvár (Sarród, Rév–Kócsagvár, Tel. el.:: +36/99/537-520) Saline lakes at Mekszikópuszta – 10 rooms with 28 beds, up to (Fertőújlak) – lookout towers of- 44 persons (including fold-away fer spectacular views to the rich double-beds). avifauna of shallow s hallow saline lakes. Open: all day

Sziki Őszirózsa (Sea aster) Nature trail (4 km) (Sarród-Fertőújlak) – a nature trail suitable for walkers and cyclists,, offering an insight cyclists i nsight into the flora and fauna of saline lakes and plains located north of Sarród and presents traditional Hungarian Hungar ian domestic animals.

Nyirkai-Hany (Bősárkány) – great views of the rich wildlife of the Hanság area from a lookout tower.

“Tőzike” (Lecuojum) Nature trail (4 km) (Csáfordjánosfa)

– alongside Stream Répce, a mixture of oak, elm and ash forIstók Hany Nature trail (5 km) (Osli-Földsziget) – a fascinating est. Millions of flowering lecuoexcursion following the footsteps  jum (snow flake) in the forest.

Did you know...

• After a hundred years’ absence, there are ospreys nesting at Fertő? • Early spider orchids, once Other demonstration sites thought to be extinct are now within the operational area found again growing in the of the Directorate: area? • on the southern coast of Lake Károly lookout tower (Sopron) – spectacular views Fertő frog tunnel systems and from the lookout tower to Károlywet passages ensure the safe magaslat, also offers a botanical spring and autumn migration of exhibition. amphibians? N ov.-Dec.: .-Dec.: Open: Jan.-Feb., Nov Sat.-Sun. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. March: Tue.-Sun. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  April: Tue.-Sun. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

www.hungary.com

National Parks

Hortobágy National Park 16 17

and how herdsmen live on the Puszta. Nov.:.: Open: 15th- 31st March and Nov 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  April and Oct.: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1st May to 30th Sep.: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

World Heritage on the Puszta – the Hortobágy www.hnp.hu National Park Hungary’s first and largest National Park, as well as the largest salt plain in Central Europe. An area in which a unique shepherding culture has evolved over many centuries, manifesting itself in distinctive traditional styles of  clothing and architecture, and the tending of particular types of animals are not found elsewhere. These remarkable features combine to form a unique World Heritage Site.  Visitor and education centres:

Other demonstration sites: Hortobágy Great-Fishponds Narrow Gauge Railway (Hortobágy-Halastó, Tel. el.:: +36/52/589-000)

Hortobágy National Park  Visitor Centre and Workshop (Hortobágy, Petőfi tér 13; – unique way of exploring further Tel. el.:: +36/52/589-000, areas of the fish pond system, system, Tel./Fax: +36/52/589-321, which is one of the largest in [email protected]) Central Europe. – natural history exhibition, Narrow Gauge Railway timetable: National Park tours, open air  April, May, June, September, Ocschools,, lectures and courses, schools tober: Mon.-Fri. by appointment, lecture hall, conference hall, Sat.-Sun.: 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m. information office, gift shop, July, August Monday-Sunday: craftsmen workshops workshops.. 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4.20 p.m. Open: all year Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; 1st May to 31st October Saturday- Hortobágy Shepherd Museum Sunday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Hortobágy, Petőfi tér 1, July-August Monday-Friday: Tel.:+36/52/369-040) 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday– housed in a former cart shed Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and stables dating from the first half of the nineteenth century, next to the celebrated Nine Arch Bridge. Exhibits detail how animals are raised on the Puszta, www.hungary.com

Hortobágy Sanctuary (Hortobágy Malomháza, Tel. el.:: +36/52/589-000) – unique presentation of the traditional Puszta’s Puszta’s wildlife in a large sized sanctuary; sanctu ary; large carnivore and smaller species, which are difficult to be observed will be accommodated in kennels arranged similarly to their natural habitat. Coming in 2010. Körszín (Hortobágy, Petőfi tér, Tel.:.: +36/52/589-00 +36/52/589-000) 0) – providing an insight into the handicraft trades of the area, souvenir shop shop.. Nov.:.: Open: 15th-31st March and Nov 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.;  April and Oct.: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.;

 Accommodation: Fecskeház Open Air School (Hortobágy-Máta, Tel.: +36/52/589-000, [email protected])

– 2 and 4 bedded rooms with shower,, one apartment and 16 shower beds with communal bathroom, bathroom, st th 1 May to 30 Sep.: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. up to a total of 34 persons. Open: April-October

Tisza Lake Water Trail and Nature Trail (1.5 km) (Tel (T el.:.: +36/30/466-3300, [email protected], www.vizisetany.hu) – a glimpse into the wonderful marshy world around Lake Tisza, departing from Poroszló and Tiszafüred boat landings.

Did you know...

• During the autumn migration 60 to 70,000 cranes take rest on the Puszta? • Grey cattle, at one time endangered species, are once again to be found grazing in large numbers? numbers? • The unique life and traditional working methods of shepherds on the Hung Hungarian arian Puszta have been maintained to this thi s day, day, the historic h istoric network of roadside inns (csárda), dating back to the ancient „salt routes“, has also been preserved?

National Parks

Hortobágy National Park 16 17

and how herdsmen live on the Puszta. Nov.:.: Open: 15th- 31st March and Nov 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  April and Oct.: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1st May to 30th Sep.: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

World Heritage on the Puszta – the Hortobágy www.hnp.hu National Park Hungary’s first and largest National Park, as well as the largest salt plain in Central Europe. An area in which a unique shepherding culture has evolved over many centuries, manifesting itself in distinctive traditional styles of  clothing and architecture, and the tending of particular types of animals are not found elsewhere. These remarkable features combine to form a unique World Heritage Site.  Visitor and education centres:

Other demonstration sites: Hortobágy Great-Fishponds Narrow Gauge Railway (Hortobágy-Halastó, Tel. el.:: +36/52/589-000)

Hortobágy National Park  Visitor Centre and Workshop (Hortobágy, Petőfi tér 13; – unique way of exploring further Tel. el.:: +36/52/589-000, areas of the fish pond system, system, Tel./Fax: +36/52/589-321, which is one of the largest in [email protected]) Central Europe. – natural history exhibition, Narrow Gauge Railway timetable: National Park tours, open air  April, May, June, September, Ocschools,, lectures and courses, schools tober: Mon.-Fri. by appointment, lecture hall, conference hall, Sat.-Sun.: 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m. information office, gift shop, July, August Monday-Sunday: craftsmen workshops workshops.. 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4.20 p.m. Open: all year Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; 1st May to 31st October Saturday- Hortobágy Shepherd Museum Sunday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Hortobágy, Petőfi tér 1, July-August Monday-Friday: Tel.:+36/52/369-040) 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday– housed in a former cart shed Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and stables dating from the first half of the nineteenth century, next to the celebrated Nine Arch Bridge. Exhibits detail how animals are raised on the Puszta,

Hortobágy Sanctuary (Hortobágy Malomháza, Tel. el.:: +36/52/589-000) – unique presentation of the traditional Puszta’s Puszta’s wildlife in a large sized sanctuary; sanctu ary; large carnivore and smaller species, which are difficult to be observed will be accommodated in kennels arranged similarly to their natural habitat. Coming in 2010. Körszín (Hortobágy, Petőfi tér, Tel.:.: +36/52/589-00 +36/52/589-000) 0) – providing an insight into the handicraft trades of the area, souvenir shop shop.. Nov.:.: Open: 15th-31st March and Nov 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.;  April and Oct.: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.;

 Accommodation: Fecskeház Open Air School (Hortobágy-Máta, Tel.: +36/52/589-000, [email protected])

– 2 and 4 bedded rooms with shower,, one apartment and 16 shower beds with communal bathroom, bathroom, 1st May to 30th Sep.: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. up to a total of 34 persons. Open: April-October

Tisza Lake Water Trail and Nature Trail (1.5 km) (Tel (T el.:.: +36/30/466-3300, [email protected], www.vizisetany.hu) – a glimpse into the wonderful marshy world around Lake Tisza, departing from Poroszló and Tiszafüred boat landings.

Did you know...

• During the autumn migration 60 to 70,000 cranes take rest on the Puszta? • Grey cattle, at one time endangered species, are once again to be found grazing in large numbers? numbers? • The unique life and traditional working methods of shepherds on the Hung Hungarian arian Puszta have been maintained to this thi s day, day, the historic h istoric network of roadside inns (csárda), dating back to the ancient „salt routes“, has also been preserved?

www.hungary.com

National Parks

Kiskunság National Park 18 19

Szikra and Alpár Meadow Open: 1st April to 15th November – picturesque backwaters of the Tuesday-Friday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., River Tisza and adjoining gallery Saturday: 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. forests and fenwoods. The flora and fauna of the area resemble the times preceding the regulations of waterways waterways.. Recreational  Virágh Manor Local History areas, swimming, angling, boat Collection hire services are available. available. (Kunszentmiklós, Kossuth tér 1/B; Tel el./Fax: ./Fax: +36/76/351-271, +36/76/35 1-271, [email protected]) – exhibition covering local history,

Between two great rivers – naturally – the Kiskunság  National Park

Other demonstration sites natural history and the rich plant within the operational area and wildlife of the Puszta. of the Directorate: Open: 15th June to 31st August www.knp.hu

The mosaic patterned national park, consisting of nine individual units safeguards the most characteristic natural lands between the Rivers Tisza and Danube. Its habitats are salt lakes, salt plains, bogs and marshes, and the backwaters of River Tisza. Traditional farming methods, cattle reared in the open air, traditional agricultural heritage together with the natural landscapes provide the unique image of the Kiskunság.  Visitor and education Demonstration sites: centres: Reconstructed village from the Nature House (Kecskemét, Liszt Li szt F. utca 19; Tel.:+35/76/501-596, 501-594) – exhibitions about the history of nature conservation in Hungary, the Hungarian National Parks and about the plant and wildlife in the land lying between the Rivers Danube and Tisza, permanent exhibition about traditional handcrafts, temporary exhibitions, natural history programmes, group activities and lectures. Open: 1st March to 31st October Tuesday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 1st November to 29th February Monday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday by appointment.

www.hungary.com

age of Árpád (Tiszaalpár, Szent István u. 1; Tel. el.:: +36/76/424-133) +36/76/42 4-133) – faithfully reconstructed village with materials and according to techniques common in the middle part of the age of Chief Árpád. Open: 1st May to 31st October

Monday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Geological Exposure Nature Geological Saturday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Conservation Area (Csólyospálos) – geological 1st September to 14 th June exposure demonstration site Monday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. presenting lacustrian limestone,  Accommodation: the typical formation of the natural lands between the rivers Kontyvirág (Arum Lily) Open Danube and Tisza. Air School (Lakitelek-Tőserdő, Open: all year Tel. el.:: +36/30/475-9655) – accommodation up to 44 persons in a winterised building and communal areas, open air Hungarian Hungari an Meadow Viper school. Recommended mainly Conservation and Education for groups, by appointment only. Centre (Kunbaracs, Tel.: .: +36/20/314-3192, +36/20/ 314-3192,

Tuesday-Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

[email protected]) – a nature trail giving an insight into the habitats of o f the water, water, forest and meadows. Lectures about the viper and conservation, open air terrarium. Open: Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., by appointment.

Bugac Puszta

Tisza Valley Exhibition Centre

Did you know...

– indigenous Hungarian domestic and farm animal, horse shows performed by the horse-herders of Bugac recalling the onetime atmosphere of the Puszta. The Shepherd Museum offers an exhibition covering local plant and the traditional lifestyle. Open: Shepherd Museum 1 st May to 31st October: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

(Szatymaz, Tel.: +36/30/6380-297)

• The biggest population of great bustard in Hungary lives on the salt plains of Kiskunság? • The salt lakes are an internationally acknowledged resting areas for several goose, duck and shorebird species?

– exhibition about the protected Lower Tisza area, and the Pusztaszer and Mártély Nature Reserves. The nearby lookout tower provides excellent bird watching over Fehértó (White Lake).

Naprózsa Open Air School (Fülöpháza, Tel.:.: +36/76/482611/ extension 151) – accommodation up to 30 persons in a winterised building, kitchenette, showers,, laboratory and showers an d communal areas; open air school.

National Parks

Kiskunság National Park 18 19

Szikra and Alpár Meadow Open: 1st April to 15th November – picturesque backwaters of the Tuesday-Friday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., River Tisza and adjoining gallery Saturday: 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. forests and fenwoods. The flora and fauna of the area resemble the times preceding the regulations of waterways waterways.. Recreational  Virágh Manor Local History areas, swimming, angling, boat Collection hire services are available. available. (Kunszentmiklós, Kossuth tér 1/B; Tel el./Fax: ./Fax: +36/76/351-271, +36/76/35 1-271, [email protected]) – exhibition covering local history,

Between two great rivers – naturally – the Kiskunság  National Park

Other demonstration sites natural history and the rich plant within the operational area and wildlife of the Puszta. of the Directorate: Open: 15th June to 31st August www.knp.hu

The mosaic patterned national park, consisting of nine individual units safeguards the most characteristic natural lands between the Rivers Tisza and Danube. Its habitats are salt lakes, salt plains, bogs and marshes, and the backwaters of River Tisza. Traditional farming methods, cattle reared in the open air, traditional agricultural heritage together with the natural landscapes provide the unique image of the Kiskunság.  Visitor and education Demonstration sites: centres: Reconstructed village from the Nature House (Kecskemét, Liszt Li szt F. utca 19; Tel.:+35/76/501-596, 501-594) – exhibitions about the history of nature conservation in Hungary, the Hungarian National Parks and about the plant and wildlife in the land lying between the Rivers Danube and Tisza, permanent exhibition about traditional handcrafts, temporary exhibitions, natural history programmes, group activities and lectures. Open: 1st March to 31st October Tuesday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 1st November to 29th February Monday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday by appointment.

age of Árpád (Tiszaalpár, Szent István u. 1; Tel. el.:: +36/76/424-133) +36/76/42 4-133) – faithfully reconstructed village with materials and according to techniques common in the middle part of the age of Chief Árpád. Open: 1st May to 31st October

Monday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Geological Exposure Nature Geological Saturday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Conservation Area (Csólyospálos) – geological 1st September to 14 th June exposure demonstration site Monday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. presenting lacustrian limestone,  Accommodation: the typical formation of the natural lands between the rivers Kontyvirág (Arum Lily) Open Danube and Tisza. Air School (Lakitelek-Tőserdő, Open: all year Tel. el.:: +36/30/475-9655) – accommodation up to 44 persons in a winterised building and communal areas, open air Hungarian Hungari an Meadow Viper school. Recommended mainly Conservation and Education for groups, by appointment only. Centre (Kunbaracs, Tel.: .: +36/20/314-3192, +36/20/ 314-3192,

Tuesday-Sunday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

[email protected]) – a nature trail giving an insight into the habitats of o f the water, water, forest and meadows. Lectures about the viper and conservation, open air terrarium. Open: Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., by appointment.

Bugac Puszta

Tisza Valley Exhibition Centre

Did you know...

– indigenous Hungarian domestic and farm animal, horse shows performed by the horse-herders of Bugac recalling the onetime atmosphere of the Puszta. The Shepherd Museum offers an exhibition covering local plant and the traditional lifestyle. Open: Shepherd Museum 1 st May to 31st October: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

(Szatymaz, Tel.: +36/30/6380-297)

• The biggest population of great bustard in Hungary lives on the salt plains of Kiskunság? • The salt lakes are an internationally acknowledged resting areas for several goose, duck and shorebird species?

– exhibition about the protected Lower Tisza area, and the Pusztaszer and Mártély Nature Reserves. The nearby lookout tower provides excellent bird watching over Fehértó (White Lake).

Naprózsa Open Air School (Fülöpháza, Tel.:.: +36/76/482611/ extension 151) – accommodation up to 30 persons in a winterised building, kitchenette, showers,, laboratory and showers an d communal areas; open air school.

www.hungary.com

National Parks

Körös–Maros National Park

20 21

Nature Trail at Halásztelek (3 km) – discover the wildlife and cultural heritage of the Triple-Körös floodplain.

Land of plains and rivers – the Körös–Maros National Park http://kmnp.nemzetipark.gov.hu The Körös-Maros National Park is a mosaic of smaller areas bounded to the north by the River Körös, to the south by the River Maros and to the east by the River Tisza with a rich natural and cultural heritage. Paddle and enjoy the picturesque riverside forest view or take a walk, cycle or stop for a picnic in the forests of the floodplains alongside the rivers with a pleasant climate even in the summer.  Visitor and education Réhely Visitor Centre centres: (Dévaványa–Réhely, Bihar Bird Observation Centre (Biharugra, Tel.: +36/30/687-0816,

[email protected]) –open air school, camps, school excursions and other programs. programs. Open: all year

Körösvölgy Visitor Centre (Szarvas, Anna-liget 1, Tel. el.:: +36/66/313-855, +36/30/475-1789, [email protected]) –the “Natural Heritage of the Southern Tisza” permanent exhibition, open air school. Open: 1st April to 31st October Tuesday-Sunday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., guided tours are available availab le by appointment.

www.hungary.com

Tel. el.:: +36/66/483-083, [email protected]) – permanent exhibition about the natural heritage of Dévaványa-Ecseg ványa-E cseg Puszta and the natural conservation activities, including a special section about the saving of the local bustard population; temporary exhibitions about the local handicrafts; open air school Open: 1st April to 31st October Tuesday-Sunday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Nature trails: Anna-liget (Anna Grove) Nature Trail (2 km) (Szarvas–  Anna-liget) – a trail beginning at the Visitor Centre presenting the colourful flora and fauna of the area.

Nature Trail at Kisvátyon (8 km) (Geszt, Zsadány) – a nature trail taking visitors alongside the border of settlements of Geszt and Zsadány providing an outstanding insight into the habitat of local forests, meadows and Open: 1st May to 30th September Monday-Sunday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., wetlands.  April and October MondaySunday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Kígyós Nature Trail (5 km) (Szabadkígyós) – a trail taking visitors through the areas rich in  Accommodation: plant and wildlife typical of the Bihar Bird Observation Centre Kígyós plains. (Tel (T el.:.: +36/30/687-0816, [email protected]) – accommodation up to 46 Mágor Puszta Nature Trail (500 m) (Vésztő-Mágor Historic persons in 3 bedded rooms with Memorial Site) – giving a remark- communal bathrooms. able insight into the natural Open: all year and cultural heritage of this protected area. Réhely Nature Trail (1.5 km) – a nature trail beginning at the Visitor Centre gives an insight into the habitats and wildlife of Dévaványaa and Ecseg plains. Dévavány

Réhely Visitor Centre (Tel (T el.:.: +36/66/483-083, +36/30/687-0816, rehely@kmnp [email protected]) .hu)

– accommodation up to 40 persons in 3 and 4 bedded rooms with bathroom; up to 8 persons in Other demonstration sites: 2 and 4 bedded guest rooms with communal kitchen, equipped with Museum at Kardoskút (Tel (T el.:.: +36/68/429-262, television and fridge fridge.. +36/30/475-1776) –permanent Open: all year exhibition about the past and natural heritage of Fehértó Did you know... (White Lake). • There is a great bustard protection station at the Réhely Visitor Open: by appointment only. Centre located at the DévaváOther demonstration sites nya and Ecseg plains? within the operational area • The Vésztő-Mágor Historic of the Directorate: Memorial Site is the only place in Hungary where visitors can  Vésztő-Mágor Historic enter a rumulus? Memorial Site (Tel (T el.:.: +36/66/477-148) – featuring the Mágor Mounds and the ruins of a 12th century monastery.

National Parks

Körös–Maros National Park

20 21

Nature Trail at Halásztelek (3 km) – discover the wildlife and cultural heritage of the Triple-Körös floodplain.

Land of plains and rivers – the Körös–Maros National Park http://kmnp.nemzetipark.gov.hu The Körös-Maros National Park is a mosaic of smaller areas bounded to the north by the River Körös, to the south by the River Maros and to the east by the River Tisza with a rich natural and cultural heritage. Paddle and enjoy the picturesque riverside forest view or take a walk, cycle or stop for a picnic in the forests of the floodplains alongside the rivers with a pleasant climate even in the summer.  Visitor and education Réhely Visitor Centre centres: (Dévaványa–Réhely, Bihar Bird Observation Centre (Biharugra, Tel.: +36/30/687-0816,

[email protected]) –open air school, camps, school excursions and other programs. programs. Open: all year

Körösvölgy Visitor Centre (Szarvas, Anna-liget 1, Tel. el.:: +36/66/313-855, +36/30/475-1789, [email protected]) –the “Natural Heritage of the Southern Tisza” permanent exhibition, open air school. Open: 1st April to 31st October Tuesday-Sunday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., guided tours are available availab le by appointment.

Tel. el.:: +36/66/483-083, [email protected]) – permanent exhibition about the natural heritage of Dévaványa-Ecseg ványa-E cseg Puszta and the natural conservation activities, including a special section about the saving of the local bustard population; temporary exhibitions about the local handicrafts; open air school Open: 1st April to 31st October Tuesday-Sunday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Nature trails: Anna-liget (Anna Grove) Nature Trail (2 km) (Szarvas–  Anna-liget) – a trail beginning at the Visitor Centre presenting the colourful flora and fauna of the area.

Nature Trail at Kisvátyon (8 km) (Geszt, Zsadány) – a nature trail taking visitors alongside the border of settlements of Geszt and Zsadány providing an outstanding insight into the habitat of local forests, meadows and Open: 1st May to 30th September Monday-Sunday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., wetlands.  April and October MondaySunday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Kígyós Nature Trail (5 km) (Szabadkígyós) – a trail taking visitors through the areas rich in  Accommodation: plant and wildlife typical of the Bihar Bird Observation Centre Kígyós plains. (Tel (T el.:.: +36/30/687-0816, [email protected]) – accommodation up to 46 Mágor Puszta Nature Trail (500 m) (Vésztő-Mágor Historic persons in 3 bedded rooms with Memorial Site) – giving a remark- communal bathrooms. able insight into the natural Open: all year and cultural heritage of this protected area. Réhely Nature Trail (1.5 km) – a nature trail beginning at the Visitor Centre gives an insight into the habitats and wildlife of Dévaványaa and Ecseg plains. Dévavány

Réhely Visitor Centre (Tel (T el.:.: +36/66/483-083, +36/30/687-0816, rehely@kmnp [email protected]) .hu)

– accommodation up to 40 persons in 3 and 4 bedded rooms with bathroom; up to 8 persons in Other demonstration sites: 2 and 4 bedded guest rooms with communal kitchen, equipped with Museum at Kardoskút (Tel (T el.:.: +36/68/429-262, television and fridge fridge.. +36/30/475-1776) –permanent Open: all year exhibition about the past and natural heritage of Fehértó Did you know... (White Lake). • There is a great bustard protection station at the Réhely Visitor Open: by appointment only. Centre located at the DévaváOther demonstration sites nya and Ecseg plains? within the operational area • The Vésztő-Mágor Historic of the Directorate: Memorial Site is the only place in Hungary where visitors can  Vésztő-Mágor Historic enter a rumulus? Memorial Site (Tel (T el.:.: +36/66/477-148) – featuring the Mágor Mounds and the ruins of a 12th century monastery.

www.hungary.com

National Parks

Őrség National Park

22 23

Szomoróczi Nature Trail (3 km) (Kercaszomor) – a nature trail finishing on the HungarianSlovenian Slov enian border bo rder suitable for hikers and cyclists. Töllös Nature Trail (2.8 km) from Szentgyörgyvölgy to Magyarföld – presenting the beautiful world of a selection forest. Free access or guided tours available.

Other demonstration sites:

Unique natural harmony – the Őrség National Park http://onp.nemzetipark.gov.hu

 A land of gentle hills, rivers and streams, pine forests and alder groves, peat bogs and marshlands, butterflies and dragonflies, and the beautiful meandering River Rába… There are pretty villages with traditional timber-framed, whitewashed peasant houses, thatched wooden belfries, fruit orchards… The climate is sub Alpine, and damper than most of Hungary, Hungary, but the welcome to visitors is unmistakably warm. And not only the hospitality of the people of Őrség, but the mild hilly landscape, beautiful wild flowers and singing birds welcome visitors.  Visitor and education wildlife of Kerca Stream and surcentres: rounding areas. Harmatfű (Moor Grass) Nature Conservation Study Centre (Őriszentpéter, Siskaszer 26/A, Tel. el.:: +36/94/548-034) +36/9 4/548-034) – lectures and exhibitions about the treasures of the National Park. Open: all year Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Reservation is recommended for groups! groups!

Nature trails: Felsőszer Nature Trail (1.7 km) (Szalafő) – gives an insight into

the unique traditional folk architecture of Őrség.

Fürge csele (Common Minnow) Nature Trail (3.2 km) (Kercaszomor) – presenting the www.hungary.com

Rezgőnyár (Quaking Aspen) Nature Trail (300 m) (Őriszentpéter) – presenting the flora and fauna of the National Park and the habitat of the so-called “tókák”. Sárgaliliom (Yellow Lilly) Nature Trail (6.2 km) from Velemér to Magyarszombatfa, passing through the less frequented Belső Bels ő-Őrség and displaying its less well-known natural and cultural treasures.

Nature Trail at Szala (3.8 km) (Szalafő-Őriszentpéter) – a real field exercise to get to know the flora and fauna of the Szala area.

Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church (Velemér, Fő út 54) Arpadian Church with 14th century frescos.

Traditional Folk Monument at Open: 4th April to 1st November: Őrség (Szalafő, Pityerszer u. 12, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., other times by appointment; for the key please Tel. el.:: +36/30/467-7022) contact Szabó Elekné – protected historic buildings (Tel.: .: +36/30/448-9276) +36/3 0/448-9276) typical of the area displaying both the cultural heritage and the everyday life of their inhabitants.  Accommodation: Open: 1st April to 31st October Harmatfű (Moor Grass) Nature Monday-Sunday: 10 a.m. to Conservation Study Centre 5 p.m.; 1st June to 31st August (Őriszentpéter, Monday-Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tel. el.:: +36/94/548-034) – 3 8-bedded rooms with bunk Other demonstration sites beds, communal bathroom and within the operational area toilets, equipped kitchen and of the Directorate: communal areas. István Bechtold Nature ConOpen: all year servation Visitor Centre (K őszeg, Aradi vértanúk parkja; Keserűszer Guest House Tel. el.:: +36/94/563-174) (Őriszentpéter; – interactive exhibition and fasci- Tel. el.:: +36/94/548-034) nating nature trail about the flora –4 rooms with 4 beds each. and fauna of K őszeg Mountains. Open: all year Open: 1st November to 30th  April Tuesday-Friday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 1 st May to 31st October Tuesday-Sunday: 10 a.m. to Did you know... 5 p.m. Reservation is recommended for groups! • 63% of the Őrség is covered with forest, 3 ½ times the Hungarian average average?? Pottery Museum (Magyarszombatfa, Fő út 66, • The so-called „szeres” form of Tel. el.:: +36/94/544-004) the villages is unique to settle– national monument giving an ments in this thi s area? insight into the everyday life of • The Őrség has been a potter family once living in continually inhabited since the house. the Magyar Conquest, st th 1 May to 15 Octoearning it the distinction Open: ber 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. of being Hungary’s oldest inhabited areas areas??

National Parks

Őrség National Park

22 23

Szomoróczi Nature Trail (3 km) (Kercaszomor) – a nature trail finishing on the HungarianSlovenian Slov enian border bo rder suitable for hikers and cyclists. Töllös Nature Trail (2.8 km) from Szentgyörgyvölgy to Magyarföld – presenting the beautiful world of a selection forest. Free access or guided tours available.

Other demonstration sites:

Unique natural harmony – the Őrség National Park http://onp.nemzetipark.gov.hu

 A land of gentle hills, rivers and streams, pine forests and alder groves, peat bogs and marshlands, butterflies and dragonflies, and the beautiful meandering River Rába… There are pretty villages with traditional timber-framed, whitewashed peasant houses, thatched wooden belfries, fruit orchards… The climate is sub Alpine, and damper than most of Hungary, Hungary, but the welcome to visitors is unmistakably warm. And not only the hospitality of the people of Őrség, but the mild hilly landscape, beautiful wild flowers and singing birds welcome visitors.  Visitor and education wildlife of Kerca Stream and surcentres: rounding areas. Harmatfű (Moor Grass) Nature Conservation Study Centre (Őriszentpéter, Siskaszer 26/A, Tel. el.:: +36/94/548-034) +36/9 4/548-034) – lectures and exhibitions about the treasures of the National Park. Open: all year Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Reservation is recommended for groups! groups!

Nature trails: Felsőszer Nature Trail (1.7 km) (Szalafő) – gives an insight into

the unique traditional folk architecture of Őrség.

Fürge csele (Common Minnow) Nature Trail (3.2 km) (Kercaszomor) – presenting the

Rezgőnyár (Quaking Aspen) Nature Trail (300 m) (Őriszentpéter) – presenting the flora and fauna of the National Park and the habitat of the so-called “tókák”. Sárgaliliom (Yellow Lilly) Nature Trail (6.2 km) from Velemér to Magyarszombatfa, passing through the less frequented Belső Bels ő-Őrség and displaying its less well-known natural and cultural treasures.

Nature Trail at Szala (3.8 km) (Szalafő-Őriszentpéter) – a real field exercise to get to know the flora and fauna of the Szala area.

Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church (Velemér, Fő út 54) Arpadian Church with 14th century frescos. Open: 4th April to 1st November: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., other times by appointment; for the key please contact Szabó Elekné (Tel.: .: +36/30/448-9276) +36/3 0/448-9276)

Traditional Folk Monument at Őrség (Szalafő, Pityerszer u. 12, Tel. el.:: +36/30/467-7022) – protected historic buildings typical of the area displaying both the cultural heritage and the everyday life of their inhabitants.  Accommodation: Open: 1st April to 31st October Harmatfű (Moor Grass) Nature Monday-Sunday: 10 a.m. to Conservation Study Centre 5 p.m.; 1st June to 31st August (Őriszentpéter, Monday-Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tel. el.:: +36/94/548-034) – 3 8-bedded rooms with bunk Other demonstration sites beds, communal bathroom and within the operational area toilets, equipped kitchen and of the Directorate: communal areas. István Bechtold Nature ConOpen: all year servation Visitor Centre (K őszeg, Aradi vértanúk parkja; Keserűszer Guest House Tel. el.:: +36/94/563-174) (Őriszentpéter; – interactive exhibition and fasci- Tel. el.:: +36/94/548-034) nating nature trail about the flora –4 rooms with 4 beds each. and fauna of K őszeg Mountains. Open: all year Open: 1st November to 30th  April Tuesday-Friday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 1 st May to 31st October Tuesday-Sunday: 10 a.m. to Did you know... 5 p.m. Reservation is recommended for groups! • 63% of the Őrség is covered with forest, 3 ½ times the Hungarian average average?? Pottery Museum (Magyarszombatfa, Fő út 66, • The so-called „szeres” form of Tel. el.:: +36/94/544-004) the villages is unique to settle– national monument giving an ments in this thi s area? insight into the everyday life of • The Őrség has been a potter family once living in continually inhabited since the house. the Magyar Conquest, earning it the distinction Open: 1st May to 15th October 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. of being Hungary’s oldest inhabited areas areas??

www.hungary.com

National Parks

Nature Parks in Hungary From 2004 the nature park title is awarded by the Minister of Environment and Water for larger areas with rich natural landscape and cultural history heritage where more emphasis is placed on recreation, healing, sustainable tourism, environmental education, providing information and environmentally-friendly economy e conomy..

Nature Parks in Hungary 24 25

 Valley of the Körös Rivers Nature Park korosoknaturpark.hu

to the local market organised on the promenade of the island.

The Nature Park is part of the famous Great Plain of Hungary, which has served the country as a major bread basket for centuries.  A great majority of the inhabitants are still involved in agricultural production. The region of the Körös Rivers is a real paradise for lovers of hunting and fishing.

Sokoró-Pannontáj Nature Park

Nagy-Milic Nature Park www.nagy-milic.hu The Nagy-Milic Nature Park covers about 15,000 hectares, presenting a flora from the Carpathian Mountains and a rich architectural and cultural heritage. The unique natural attraction of Izra Mountain Lake, Füzér or Szalánc Castles invite tourists for a pleasant hike. Őrség

Cserhát Nature Park www.cserhatnaturpark.hu The mosaic patterned Nature Park is a real cultural landscape offering a variety of lands depending on the level touched by man. Traditional village structure and folk architectural heritage,, the World age W orld Heritage Site of Hollókő Old village and the vineyards of Terény attract many visitors every year.

Írottkő Nature Park www.naturpark.hu Írottkő Nature Park is named after the highest peak inTransdanubia, located at over 882 m on the Hungarian-Austrian border border.. In 2009 the Nature Park was awarded the “Best Emerging European Destination of Hungary” and now the Nature Park is entitled to use the honouring “Destination of Excellence” title.

Ipolymente-Börzsöny Nature Park www.ipolymente-borzsony.hu The Nature Park includes the natural wonders of Börzsöny Mountains and the rare and special flora and fauna of the LowerIpoly Region. Danube and Ipoly Greenway,, Börzsöny Greenway Börzsö ny Museum at Szob, Gorka Museum at Verőce, Drégely Castle, Salgó Castle and the Roman watch tower of Verrőce are just a few sights to Ve visit in the area.

Kerka River Nature Park Various species and natural habitats of the area are protected under the Nature 2000 ecological network of the European Union, which indicates the significance of the Kerka area. The signposted South-Zala Forest Region Bicycle Route runs about 88 km in low traffic forestry roads between the small towns called Letenye and Lenti.

www.hungary.com

Nature Park www.orsegnet.hu This unique landscape is characterised by a variety of natural beauties: hills and valleys, deciduous and coniferous woodlands, green hayfields, marshlands preserving plants from the Ice Age and crystal clear springs and brooks vary streams. The silence and fresh air, the cultural traditions and customs, which remained unchanged, traditional crafts and the products of self-sufficient farming (pumpkin seed oil, Palinka with honey, goat and cow’s milk cheese) and lifestyle also attract visitors. visitors.

Ráckeve Kis-Duna Nature Park www.rackeveinaturpark.shp.hu The Ráckeve Danube Branch is a favourite area for the enthusiasts of water sports and cycling, but also rural tourism and various attractions in the nearby towns are worth a visit. Small boats are going up and down on the Ráckeve Danube Branch heading

The Nature Park is located at a picturesque picturesqu e transitional area of Bakonyalja, stretching from Bakony Mountains to the Little Hungarian Plain, including the northern slopes of Bakony. The smooth hillside with fresh mountain air, protected trees and rich wildlife offers excursions, horse-riding and hunting programs to visitors.

Soproni-hegység Nature Park www.sopronihegyseg.hu The Lővér Hills located within the territory of the Nature Park host a nationally acknowledged medicinal healing location. The Nature Park offers various active leisure programs and other entertaining events, such as the Celtic Festival in July or Iron Curtain Tour organised for the first time last year. Szatmár-Bereg Nature Park www.szatmarbereg.hu Szatmár-Bereg Nature Park is covered by hundreds and hundreds of years old wooded graze lands, large hay lands, land s, bogs and oak groves. Traditional animal breeding (sheep) apple and plum growing characterize the land. Traditional embroidery technique of Bereg Cross-Stitch, wood carvings and delicacies using the local Szatmár plum are famous all over the country.  Vértes Nature Park www.vertesinaturpark.hu The Nature Park with rich natural heritage offers wide variety of programs: hiking and cycling, routes for horse riding, nature trails, carriage riding on the Puszta visiting the famous Hungarian grey cattle stock, ‘Ezerjó’ Wine Route of Mór, hunting, museums, exhibitions, palaces and castles.

National Parks

Nature Parks in Hungary From 2004 the nature park title is awarded by the Minister of Environment and Water for larger areas with rich natural landscape and cultural history heritage where more emphasis is placed on recreation, healing, sustainable tourism, environmental education, providing information and environmentally-friendly economy e conomy..

Nature Parks in Hungary 24 25

 Valley of the Körös Rivers Nature Park korosoknaturpark.hu

to the local market organised on the promenade of the island.

The Nature Park is part of the famous Great Plain of Hungary, which has served the country as a major bread basket for centuries.  A great majority of the inhabitants are still involved in agricultural production. The region of the Körös Rivers is a real paradise for lovers of hunting and fishing.

Sokoró-Pannontáj Nature Park

Nagy-Milic Nature Park www.nagy-milic.hu The Nagy-Milic Nature Park covers about 15,000 hectares, presenting a flora from the Carpathian Mountains and a rich architectural and cultural heritage. The unique natural attraction of Izra Mountain Lake, Füzér or Szalánc Castles invite tourists for a pleasant hike. Őrség

Cserhát Nature Park www.cserhatnaturpark.hu The mosaic patterned Nature Park is a real cultural landscape offering a variety of lands depending on the level touched by man. Traditional village structure and folk architectural heritage,, the World age W orld Heritage Site of Hollókő Old village and the vineyards of Terény attract many visitors every year.

Írottkő Nature Park www.naturpark.hu Írottkő Nature Park is named after the highest peak inTransdanubia, located at over 882 m on the Hungarian-Austrian border border.. In 2009 the Nature Park was awarded the “Best Emerging European Destination of Hungary” and now the Nature Park is entitled to use the honouring “Destination of Excellence” title.

Ipolymente-Börzsöny Nature Park www.ipolymente-borzsony.hu The Nature Park includes the natural wonders of Börzsöny Mountains and the rare and special flora and fauna of the LowerIpoly Region. Danube and Ipoly Greenway,, Börzsöny Greenway Börzsö ny Museum at Szob, Gorka Museum at Verőce, Drégely Castle, Salgó Castle and the Roman watch tower of Verrőce are just a few sights to Ve visit in the area.

Kerka River Nature Park Various species and natural habitats of the area are protected under the Nature 2000 ecological network of the European Union, which indicates the significance of the Kerka area. The signposted South-Zala Forest Region Bicycle Route runs about 88 km in low traffic forestry roads between the small towns called Letenye and Lenti.

Nature Park www.orsegnet.hu This unique landscape is characterised by a variety of natural beauties: hills and valleys, deciduous and coniferous woodlands, green hayfields, marshlands preserving plants from the Ice Age and crystal clear springs and brooks vary streams. The silence and fresh air, the cultural traditions and customs, which remained unchanged, traditional crafts and the products of self-sufficient farming (pumpkin seed oil, Palinka with honey, goat and cow’s milk cheese) and lifestyle also attract visitors. visitors.

Ráckeve Kis-Duna Nature Park www.rackeveinaturpark.shp.hu The Ráckeve Danube Branch is a favourite area for the enthusiasts of water sports and cycling, but also rural tourism and various attractions in the nearby towns are worth a visit. Small boats are going up and down on the Ráckeve Danube Branch heading

The Nature Park is located at a picturesque picturesqu e transitional area of Bakonyalja, stretching from Bakony Mountains to the Little Hungarian Plain, including the northern slopes of Bakony. The smooth hillside with fresh mountain air, protected trees and rich wildlife offers excursions, horse-riding and hunting programs to visitors.

Soproni-hegység Nature Park www.sopronihegyseg.hu The Lővér Hills located within the territory of the Nature Park host a nationally acknowledged medicinal healing location. The Nature Park offers various active leisure programs and other entertaining events, such as the Celtic Festival in July or Iron Curtain Tour organised for the first time last year. Szatmár-Bereg Nature Park www.szatmarbereg.hu Szatmár-Bereg Nature Park is covered by hundreds and hundreds of years old wooded graze lands, large hay lands, land s, bogs and oak groves. Traditional animal breeding (sheep) apple and plum growing characterize the land. Traditional embroidery technique of Bereg Cross-Stitch, wood carvings and delicacies using the local Szatmár plum are famous all over the country.  Vértes Nature Park www.vertesinaturpark.hu The Nature Park with rich natural heritage offers wide variety of programs: hiking and cycling, routes for horse riding, nature trails, carriage riding on the Puszta visiting the famous Hungarian grey cattle stock, ‘Ezerjó’ Wine Route of Mór, hunting, museums, exhibitions, palaces and castles.

www.hungary.com

National Parks

We are especially proud to present – our internationally acknowledged historical natural landscapes and treasures World Heritage sites In 1972 the UNESCO adopted the “Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Convention”.. In Hungar y the Aggtelek tion” karst and Slovakian karst caves are natural World Heritage sites. Hortobágy National Park- the Puszta, Fertő Fert ő/Neusiedlersee cultural region and the historic wine-making region of Tokaj-Hegyalja received the recognition of the World Heritage Committee as registered World Heritage sites in cultural landscape category rewarding the value-creating, landscape forming activity of man. The Loire Valley in France, Upper Middle Rhine Valley in Germany and the Ayers Rock (Uluru) National Park have also received the same recognition from the World Heritage Committee.

European Diploma of  Protected Areas The European Diploma of Protected Areas is an international award granted since www.hungary.com

1965 by the Council of Europe to protected, natural areas and landscapes of special European importance for the preservation of landscape diversity. The Diploma is awarded to protected areas because of their outstanding natural landscape qualities, but also for the conservation activities carried out.

In Hungary so far there are three awarded areas: • Szénás Hills Protected Area, habitat for the Pilis flax, which is unique to the site, • Tihany Peninsula- Volcanic Phenomena and geological, geomorphologic and volcanic formations • Ipolytarnóc Nature Conservation Area- paleontological site Other awarded areas: wetland habitats of the Bialowieza National Park-Poland and Doñana National Park-Spain.

Ramsar sites The Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar, Iran, 1971) – called the “Ramsar Convention”

We are especially proud to present 26 27

– is an intergovernmental treaty is allowed adapting to the local that embodies the commitlandscapes, especially enviments of its member countries ronmental education, which to maintain the ecological contributes to the sustainment character of their Wetlands of of landscape and wildlife for International Importance and to future generations. plan for the wise or sustainable use of all of the wetlands in European Destinations of  Excellence, EDEN their territories. Currently there are 28 Ramsar  A project drawing attention to sites in Hungary – stretching the diversity and richness of from Bodrogzug, Kolon Lake in European tourist destinations. the Kiskunság to Kis-Balaton – The project is based on naoffering various opportunities tional competitions developed to explore the extremely colour- around an annual theme that ful wildlife of the wetlands. take place every year in the member states of the European Biosphere reserves Union and result in the selecThe UNESCO’s Man and the tion of a tourist “destination of Biosphere Program was estab- excellence” for each participatlished in 1970 to promote the ing country. conservation of the natural environment. The program’s priEDEN awarded destinations: mary output came in the form • “Best Emerging European of biosphere reserves, which Destination of Excellence” are strictly protected areas that (2007) – Őrség are meant to demonstrate the • “Tourism and Local Intangible Earth’s large ecosystem types Heritage Destination of Exceland to observe the local natural lence” (2008) – Hortobágy and human-related processes. • “Best Emerging Eco-tourism Currently there are five bioDestination of Excellence” sphere reserves in Hungary: (2009) – Írottkő Nature Park  Aggtelek National Park, Lake In 2010 the winner destinations Fertő, Hortobágy, Kiskunság will be awarded as “EDEN desand Pilis Mountains Biosphere tination for Aquatic Sustainable Reserves. In the so-called buff- Tourism”. er zone limited human activity edenineurope.eu

National Parks

We are especially proud to present – our internationally acknowledged historical natural landscapes and treasures World Heritage sites In 1972 the UNESCO adopted the “Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Convention”.. In Hungar y the Aggtelek tion” karst and Slovakian karst caves are natural World Heritage sites. Hortobágy National Park- the Puszta, Fertő Fert ő/Neusiedlersee cultural region and the historic wine-making region of Tokaj-Hegyalja received the recognition of the World Heritage Committee as registered World Heritage sites in cultural landscape category rewarding the value-creating, landscape forming activity of man. The Loire Valley in France, Upper Middle Rhine Valley in Germany and the Ayers Rock (Uluru) National Park have also received the same recognition from the World Heritage Committee.

European Diploma of  Protected Areas The European Diploma of Protected Areas is an international award granted since

1965 by the Council of Europe to protected, natural areas and landscapes of special European importance for the preservation of landscape diversity. The Diploma is awarded to protected areas because of their outstanding natural landscape qualities, but also for the conservation activities carried out.

In Hungary so far there are three awarded areas: • Szénás Hills Protected Area, habitat for the Pilis flax, which is unique to the site, • Tihany Peninsula- Volcanic Phenomena and geological, geomorphologic and volcanic formations • Ipolytarnóc Nature Conservation Area- paleontological site Other awarded areas: wetland habitats of the Bialowieza National Park-Poland and Doñana National Park-Spain.

Ramsar sites The Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar, Iran, 1971) – called the “Ramsar Convention”

We are especially proud to present 26 27

– is an intergovernmental treaty is allowed adapting to the local that embodies the commitlandscapes, especially enviments of its member countries ronmental education, which to maintain the ecological contributes to the sustainment character of their Wetlands of of landscape and wildlife for International Importance and to future generations. plan for the wise or sustainable use of all of the wetlands in European Destinations of  Excellence, EDEN their territories. Currently there are 28 Ramsar  A project drawing attention to sites in Hungary – stretching the diversity and richness of from Bodrogzug, Kolon Lake in European tourist destinations. the Kiskunság to Kis-Balaton – The project is based on naoffering various opportunities tional competitions developed to explore the extremely colour- around an annual theme that ful wildlife of the wetlands. take place every year in the member states of the European Biosphere reserves Union and result in the selecThe UNESCO’s Man and the tion of a tourist “destination of Biosphere Program was estab- excellence” for each participatlished in 1970 to promote the ing country. conservation of the natural environment. The program’s priEDEN awarded destinations: mary output came in the form • “Best Emerging European of biosphere reserves, which Destination of Excellence” are strictly protected areas that (2007) – Őrség are meant to demonstrate the • “Tourism and Local Intangible Earth’s large ecosystem types Heritage Destination of Exceland to observe the local natural lence” (2008) – Hortobágy and human-related processes. • “Best Emerging Eco-tourism Currently there are five bioDestination of Excellence” sphere reserves in Hungary: (2009) – Írottkő Nature Park  Aggtelek National Park, Lake In 2010 the winner destinations Fertő, Hortobágy, Kiskunság will be awarded as “EDEN desand Pilis Mountains Biosphere tination for Aquatic Sustainable Reserves. In the so-called buff- Tourism”. er zone limited human activity edenineurope.eu

www.hungary.com

I am a responsible eco-tourist! eco-tourist!

Useful Information

 As a responsible eco-tourist, in the nature I shall always keep to these rules for my own and the nature’s sake!

Aggtelek National Park Directorate

back in your rucksack. Do not leave any marks, do not tear down any plants, do not take home any animals and only light fires in the designated desi gnated areas.

• Take Take a train or cycle when travelling to your destination. If you drive,, share the car with your drive friends. Tour Tour the natural landscapes on foot, or only use the authorized means of transportation. • Wear suitable clothing for hiking and only take the necessary equipment with you. Always adapt to nature in order to learn as much as you can about it. • Listen to the voices of nature; do not make noise unnecessarily,, because you may disturb the ily animals and other tourists. You will also be pleased to tour nature undisturbed. • Animals have learnt that people only use the roads and designated paths. If you leave the roads or paths, the animals will flee and you won’t be able to observe them. Never leave the designated path, otherwise you may step on precious and beautiful plants.

• In protected areas, which are open to the public you will find lookout towers, benches and designated areas for lighting fires. These are established at locations, where the presence of man causes minimum disturbance to the environment, ensuring a relaxed and successful observation experience for all visitors. • Find accommodation in the nearby towns and villages as camping is usually not allowed within protected areas. Support Support the local economy by choosing accommodation and restaurants run by the locals. Also taste the delicacies prepared from the local ingredients ingredients.. • Dogs shall always be kept on leash, which is also in the in terest of the dog.  Always keep the above rules in mind, because if nature feels good, you will also feel good in nature and nature will offer its beauties to others oth ers as well.

• Do not dispose of your rubbish, rather keep keep it and put it Published by the Ministry of Environment and Water (www.kvvm.hu) and the Hungarian National Tourist Office (www.hungary.com) Manuscript closed: March 2010 • Design: Csilla Szabó DTP: VIVA Média Holding Front page photo (flower): János Vers • Printed by Pauker Nyomda • Free copy

www.hungary.com

Hortobágy National Park Directorate H-3758 Jósvafő Jósvafő, Tengerszem oldal 1 H-4024 Debrecen, Sumen u. 2 Tel.: +36/48/506-000 +36/48/506-00 0 Tel.: +36/52/589-000; +36/52/589-00 0; Fax: +36/48/506-001 +36/52/589-321 [email protected], www.anp.hu Fax: +36/52/589-321 [email protected], www.hnp.hu Tourinform–Aggtelek Nature Conservation and Tourist Kiskunság National Park Information Centre Directorate H-3759 Aggtelek, Baradla oldal 3 H-6000 Kecskemét, Kec skemét, Liszt F. u. 19 Tel.: +36/48/503-000 +36/48/503-00 0 Tel.: +36/76/482-611 +36/76/482-61 1 Fax: +36/48/503-002 [email protected] [email protected] www.knp.hu Balaton Uplands National Park Directorate H-8229 Csopak, Kossuth Kossut h u. 16 Tel.: +36/87/555-291 +36/87/555-29 1 Fax: +36/87/555-261 [email protected] bfnp@bf np.kvvm.hu,, www ww w.bfnp.hu Bükk National Park Directorate Eger,, Sánc u. 6 H-3304 Eger Tel.: +36/36/411-581, +36/36/411-58 1, Fax: +36/36/412-791 [email protected] www.bnpi.hu Duna–Dráva National Park Directorate H-7625 Pécs, Tettye tér 9 Tel.: +36/72/517-200 +36/72/517-20 0 Fax: +36/72/517-229 [email protected] www.ddnp.hu Duna–Ipoly National Park Directorate H-1121 Budapest, Költ ő u. 21 Tel.: +36/1/391-4610 +36/1/391-461 0 Fax: +36/1/200-1168 [email protected] dinpi@din pi.hu,, www www.dinpi.hu .dinpi.hu

Körös–Maros National Park Directorate H-5540 Szarvas, Anna-liget 1 Tel.: +36/66/313-855 +36/66/313-85 5 Fax: +36/66/311-658 [email protected] http://kmnp.nemzetipark.gov.hu Őrség National Park

Directorate H-9941 Őriszentpéter, Siskaszer 26/A Tel.: +36/94/548-034 +36/94/548-03 4 Fax: +36/94/428-791 [email protected] http://onp.nemzetipark.gov.hu

Tourinform Call Service (24/7) Tel.: +36/1/438-8080 +36/1/438-808 0 www.tourinform.hu Ministry of Environment and Water,, Green Point Service Water H-1111 Budapest, Fő utca 44-50. Tel.: +36/80/401-1111 +36/80/401-11 11 [email protected] www.kvvm.hu

For further information please go to the central website of the National Park Directorates: H-9435 Sarród, Sarró d, Rév-Kócsagvár, Rév-Kócsagvár, Pf. 4 www.nemzetipark.gov.hu Tel.: +36/99/537-620 +36/99/537-62 0 Fax: +36/99/537-621 [email protected] www.ferto-hansag.hu

Fertő–Hanság National Park Directorate

I am a responsible eco-tourist! eco-tourist!

Useful Information

 As a responsible eco-tourist, in the nature I shall always keep to these rules for my own and the nature’s sake!

Aggtelek National Park Directorate

back in your rucksack. Do not leave any marks, do not tear down any plants, do not take home any animals and only light fires in the designated desi gnated areas.

• Take Take a train or cycle when travelling to your destination. If you drive,, share the car with your drive friends. Tour Tour the natural landscapes on foot, or only use the authorized means of transportation. • Wear suitable clothing for hiking and only take the necessary equipment with you. Always adapt to nature in order to learn as much as you can about it. • Listen to the voices of nature; do not make noise unnecessarily,, because you may disturb the ily animals and other tourists. You will also be pleased to tour nature undisturbed. • Animals have learnt that people only use the roads and designated paths. If you leave the roads or paths, the animals will flee and you won’t be able to observe them. Never leave the designated path, otherwise you may step on precious and beautiful plants.

• In protected areas, which are open to the public you will find lookout towers, benches and designated areas for lighting fires. These are established at locations, where the presence of man causes minimum disturbance to the environment, ensuring a relaxed and successful observation experience for all visitors. • Find accommodation in the nearby towns and villages as camping is usually not allowed within protected areas. Support Support the local economy by choosing accommodation and restaurants run by the locals. Also taste the delicacies prepared from the local ingredients ingredients.. • Dogs shall always be kept on leash, which is also in the in terest of the dog.  Always keep the above rules in mind, because if nature feels good, you will also feel good in nature and nature will offer its beauties to others oth ers as well.

• Do not dispose of your rubbish, rather keep keep it and put it Published by the Ministry of Environment and Water (www.kvvm.hu) and the Hungarian National Tourist Office (www.hungary.com) Manuscript closed: March 2010 • Design: Csilla Szabó DTP: VIVA Média Holding Front page photo (flower): János Vers • Printed by Pauker Nyomda • Free copy

Hortobágy National Park Directorate H-3758 Jósvafő Jósvafő, Tengerszem oldal 1 H-4024 Debrecen, Sumen u. 2 Tel.: +36/48/506-000 +36/48/506-00 0 Tel.: +36/52/589-000; +36/52/589-00 0; Fax: +36/48/506-001 +36/52/589-321 [email protected], www.anp.hu Fax: +36/52/589-321 [email protected], www.hnp.hu Tourinform–Aggtelek Nature Conservation and Tourist Kiskunság National Park Information Centre Directorate H-3759 Aggtelek, Baradla oldal 3 H-6000 Kecskemét, Kec skemét, Liszt F. u. 19 Tel.: +36/48/503-000 +36/48/503-00 0 Tel.: +36/76/482-611 +36/76/482-61 1 Fax: +36/48/503-002 [email protected] [email protected] www.knp.hu Balaton Uplands National Park Directorate H-8229 Csopak, Kossuth Kossut h u. 16 Tel.: +36/87/555-291 +36/87/555-29 1 Fax: +36/87/555-261 [email protected] bfnp@bf np.kvvm.hu,, www ww w.bfnp.hu Bükk National Park Directorate Eger,, Sánc u. 6 H-3304 Eger Tel.: +36/36/411-581, +36/36/411-58 1, Fax: +36/36/412-791 [email protected] www.bnpi.hu Duna–Dráva National Park Directorate H-7625 Pécs, Tettye tér 9 Tel.: +36/72/517-200 +36/72/517-20 0 Fax: +36/72/517-229 [email protected] www.ddnp.hu Duna–Ipoly National Park Directorate H-1121 Budapest, Költ ő u. 21 Tel.: +36/1/391-4610 +36/1/391-461 0 Fax: +36/1/200-1168 [email protected] dinpi@din pi.hu,, www www.dinpi.hu .dinpi.hu

Körös–Maros National Park Directorate H-5540 Szarvas, Anna-liget 1 Tel.: +36/66/313-855 +36/66/313-85 5 Fax: +36/66/311-658 [email protected] http://kmnp.nemzetipark.gov.hu Őrség National Park

Directorate H-9941 Őriszentpéter, Siskaszer 26/A Tel.: +36/94/548-034 +36/94/548-03 4 Fax: +36/94/428-791 [email protected] http://onp.nemzetipark.gov.hu

Tourinform Call Service (24/7) Tel.: +36/1/438-8080 +36/1/438-808 0 www.tourinform.hu Ministry of Environment and Water,, Green Point Service Water H-1111 Budapest, Fő utca 44-50. Tel.: +36/80/401-1111 +36/80/401-11 11 [email protected] www.kvvm.hu

For further information please go to the central website of the National Park Directorates: H-9435 Sarród, Sarró d, Rév-Kócsagvár, Rév-Kócsagvár, Pf. 4 www.nemzetipark.gov.hu Tel.: +36/99/537-620 +36/99/537-62 0 Fax: +36/99/537-621 [email protected] www.ferto-hansag.hu

Fertő–Hanság National Park Directorate

www.hungary.com

Hungary celebrates 2010, as the ‘Year of the Festival’ In 2010, being officially declared as the “Year of the Festival”, nearly every day there is a good reason to set off and visit a festival. During and after festivals visitors can not only enjoy the bustling local cultural life, but may also get an insight into the everyday life and t raditions of the towns and villages hosting the festivals. Hungary has an impressive reputation for hosting hundreds of festivals, with the participation of hundreds and thousands of people causing a significant strain on nature! We need to act responsibly if we are wishing to return again and again to the same town or landscape to admire its beauties and treasures! Exciting events are awaiting visitors from January to December. Pack your gear and set off for a few days. Just visit the www.hungary.com website for discounted accommodation rates!

Make it a „greener” festival, festival, because… festivals with high number of visitors inevitably increase the environmental load: • organic and non-organic waste is generated, • causes sound- and light pollution • causes damage to the natural environment • increases dust- and carbon-dioxide pollution

   k   e    l   e    t   g   g    A

  y   g    á    b   o    t   r   o    H

  y    l   o   p    I   –   a   n   u    D

Did you know what makes a festival GREEN?

Changing perspectives • establishment of a green agenda, publication of this agenda at the event, on the website of the event and in the program brochure • establishment of a green point, or providing an opportunity to establish one • installing information boards in the toilets and showers about water consumption reduction For more information please visit the www.kvvm.hu website! www.hungary.com

  s    k   r   a    P    l   a   n   o    i    t   a    N

  s   g   n    i    d   n   u   o   r   r   u    S    d   n   a    t   s   e   p   a    d   u    B

  a   z   s    i   n    T   o    i   e   g    k   e   a    R    L   e    d   n   n    i    W   a    j    t   a   a    k   z   o   s   u    T     r    P   e   e   g    h    E    T

  a    i   n   o   n   n   a    P

  n   o    t   a    l   a    B   e    k   a    L

  s   o   r   a    M   –   s    ö   r    ö    K

   k    k    ü    B

The Ministry of Environment and Water in cooperation with the festival organiser trade and green non-profit organisations established a grading system to decrease the environmental load caused by events and festivals. In order to receive the distinguished “Green Festival” title, events and festivals shall also promote environment-conscious way of thinking.

The following environmental objectives objectives shall be fulfilled by a Green Festival: Environmental rehabilitation: on: measures undertaken by the organiser to remedy the environmental damage done to the land i.e. restore the conditions of the land to the status before the festival. Establishment of selective waste collection islands: documented ratio of selectively collected and recyclable waste shall reach 20%. Organised transportation for the public: promoting public transportation, sharing cars and bicycle access to the event, establishment of free bicycle storage areas and parking spaces in a way that it causes minimum disturbance and damage to nature. Strict adherence to limit values ensuring the reduction of noise- and light pollution.

  s   n   o    i   g   e    R    l   a   c    i    t   s    i   r   u   o    T

  g    á   s   n   u    k   s    i    K

  g    á   s   n   a    H         ő    t   r   e    F

  a   v    á   r    D   –   a   n   u    D

  s    d   n   a    l   p    U   n   o    t   a    l   a    B   g    é   s   r

       Ő

Hungary celebrates 2010, as the ‘Year of the Festival’ In 2010, being officially declared as the “Year of the Festival”, nearly every day there is a good reason to set off and visit a festival. During and after festivals visitors can not only enjoy the bustling local cultural life, but may also get an insight into the everyday life and t raditions of the towns and villages hosting the festivals. Hungary has an impressive reputation for hosting hundreds of festivals, with the participation of hundreds and thousands of people causing a significant strain on nature! We need to act responsibly if we are wishing to return again and again to the same town or landscape to admire its beauties and treasures! Exciting events are awaiting visitors from January to December. Pack your gear and set off for a few days. Just visit the www.hungary.com website for discounted accommodation rates!

Make it a „greener” festival, festival, because… festivals with high number of visitors inevitably increase the environmental load: • organic and non-organic waste is generated, • causes sound- and light pollution • causes damage to the natural environment • increases dust- and carbon-dioxide pollution

   k   e    l   e    t   g   g    A

  y   g    á    b   o    t   r   o    H

  y    l   o   p    I   –   a   n   u    D

Did you know what makes a festival GREEN?

Changing perspectives • establishment of a green agenda, publication of this agenda at the event, on the website of the event and in the program brochure • establishment of a green point, or providing an opportunity to establish one • installing information boards in the toilets and showers about water consumption reduction

  s    k   r   a    P    l   a   n   o    i    t   a    N

  s   g   n    i    d   n   u   o   r   r   u    S    d   n   a    t   s   e   p   a    d   u    B

  a   z   s   n    i    T   o    i   e   g    k   e   a    R    L   e    d   n   n    i    W   a    j    t   a   a    k   z   o   s   u    T     r    P   e   e   g    h    E    T

  a    i   n   o   n   n   a    P

  n   o    t   a    l   a    B   e    k   a    L

  s   o   r   a    M   –   s    ö   r    ö    K

   k    k    ü    B

The Ministry of Environment and Water in cooperation with the festival organiser trade and green non-profit organisations established a grading system to decrease the environmental load caused by events and festivals. In order to receive the distinguished “Green Festival” title, events and festivals shall also promote environment-conscious way of thinking.

The following environmental objectives objectives shall be fulfilled by a Green Festival: Environmental rehabilitation: on: measures undertaken by the organiser to remedy the environmental damage done to the land i.e. restore the conditions of the land to the status before the festival. Establishment of selective waste collection islands: documented ratio of selectively collected and recyclable waste shall reach 20%. Organised transportation for the public: promoting public transportation, sharing cars and bicycle access to the event, establishment of free bicycle storage areas and parking spaces in a way that it causes minimum disturbance and damage to nature. Strict adherence to limit values ensuring the reduction of noise- and light pollution.

  s   n   o    i   g   e    R    l   a   c    i    t   s    i   r   u   o    T

  g    á   s   n   u    k   s    i    K

  g    á   s   n   a    H         ő    t   r   e    F

  a   v    á   r    D   –   a   n   u    D

  s    d   n   a    l   p    U   n   o    t   a    l   a    B   g    é   s   r

       Ő

For more information please visit the www.kvvm.hu website! www.hungary.com

“In the wake of values and experience” Week of Hungarian National Parks 11th-20th June 2010

“In the wake of values and experience” Week of Hungarian National Parks 11th-20th June 2010 It is an annual ecotourism event which this year will be held between 11th and 20th June 2010. The aim of this program is to encourage people to go out and get acquainted with the beautiful natural environment of Hungary.

11th June – Conference on eco-tourism and nature conservation – focusing on local and national park products Location: Harmatfű Training and Visitor Centre, Őriszentpéter By appointment only! 12th June – Central opening ceremony Location: Őriszentpéter–Pityerszer, Őrség National Park • Introduction of the ten National Parks of Hungary • „Green Tornado” – National Park fair • Handicraft shows • Flavours of the National Parks of Hungary, traditional cooking competition and tasting • Quiz shows on nature and tourism with great prizes to win • Guaranteed guided tours “on foot- by bicycle-on carriage” in the Őrség National Park (also on 13th June!) 14th-20th June – Discover the natural heritage of Hungary! Discover our national parks and other protected areas hiding so many natural treasures! A whole week of exciting adventures, free programs for the entire family and discounted entry fees to several demonstration sites await you and your family in the most spectacular areas of Hungary! Let’s set off “in the wake of values and experience”!

www.nemzetipark.gov.hu/mnph