Bükk National Park
Would you like to combine your trip to Hungary with a beautiful excursion destination? Then Bükk National Park is exactly the right choice! Covering more than 43,000 hectares near the city of Eger, the park is one of the country’s largest protected natural landscapes. The name “Bükk” means “beech,” because this tree species shapes the park’s scenery.
Flora and Fauna
For geology and cave enthusiasts, the park has plenty to offer. More than 1,000 caves have already been discovered. Particularly impressive is the István Cave. It stretches over 254 kilometres and is the deepest cave in the country.
In addition to its many caves and limestone formations, the park is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Hungarian beech grove. It also provides a habitat for many rare plant species such as the Northern dragonhead. Mountains, waterfalls, springs, lakes, and streams shape the landscape. Especially worth seeing are the Sebes-víz gorge valley and the view from the approximately 950-metre-high Tar-kő cliff. A good starting point for exploring the national park is Miskolc.
Mammals
Many mammals live in the park, such as wild boar and roe deer. Foxes, squirrels, martens, wolves, and increasingly lynx are also native here. In the river regions you can find beavers and otters.
Birds
Bükk National Park is home to many bird species. Particularly well known is the reintroduced griffon vulture. The rare Eurasian eagle-owl, the saker falcon, and various woodpecker species can also be found here.
Reptiles and Amphibians
Reptiles include the sand lizard and the European green lizard. The European adder also lives in the park. With a bit of luck, you may spot a fire salamander. In the park’s waters, various frog species occur, such as the common toad and the marsh frog.
Insects
The insect world is extremely diverse: in addition to the stag beetle, more than 300 butterfly species live in the park, including the purple emperor and the red admiral. Dragonflies also shape the scenery around streams and ponds.
Protection and Conservation Measures
The park places great emphasis on nature conservation. More than 22,000 animal species live here. Reintroduction projects—for example for the griffon vulture and the Eurasian lynx—as well as numerous research projects contribute to preserving the ecosystems.
Activities
In Bükk National Park there are numerous activities for nature lovers and adventurers.
Hiking
More than 2,000 kilometres of hiking trails lead through varied landscapes. Popular routes include:
Hunguesthotel Palota – Hámori-tó (Lillafüred): moderately difficult, 11.8 km
Felsquelle – Fátyol vízesés (Szilvásvárad): easy, 4.24 km
Három-kő: panoramic views at 904 metres
Cycling
The Bükk cycle route is ideal for leisure cyclists. Challenging trails such as the Hór-völgy – Bükki Csillagda loop are aimed at experienced mountain bikers.
Birdwatching
In forests and open meadows you can observe numerous bird species such as griffon vultures or eagle-owls.
Caving
Guided cave tours offer exciting insights into the park’s geology and history.
Fishing and Boating
The Lázbérc Lake and the romantic Hámori-tó invite you to fish, row, or enjoy pedal boats. Kayak and canoe tours are also possible on the Tisza.
Horse Riding
Horseback rides make it possible to experience the national park from a new perspective.
Picnicking
Numerous picnic areas at viewpoints or in quiet locations invite you to relax.
Winter Sports
Cross-country skiing and snowshoe hiking are popular winter activities, especially around Kékes Mountain.
Dogs
Dogs are allowed on selected routes; a leash requirement applies. The Burg Odor circular trail near Bükkzsérc is recommended.
Cultural Influences
A visit to the surrounding villages is worthwhile: traditional architecture and Hungarian craftsmanship shape the region.
The Europamaut Team Wishes You a Pleasant Journey
We wish you a pleasant trip to Hungary and lots of fun on your road trip. You can find more information about tolls in Hungary in our guide. Feel free to use our route planner to plan your journey perfectly and have suitable toll products displayed. If you have any questions, you can reach us anytime via email.
