WildlifeHungary has nine national parks and nearly 1000 protected areas. Hikers can head for the mountains in the north and northwest of the country. The
Börzsöny,
Mátra and
Pilis ranges not far to the north of Budapest are popular, with the
Mátra mountains containing Hungary’s highest peak,
Kékesetö (1015m/3329ft). Less strenuous walking is possible around
Lake Balaton and in the hills in the south of the country. Hungary’s many wetlands, rivers and lakes attract large numbers of water birds, and
birdwatching is popular. A particularly good area for this is
Hortobágy National Park in the Great Plain in the east of the country, where different types of storks, warblers, eagles and herons can be seen. A guide is required for visits to some parts of the park, and motor vehicles are not permitted. Other wildlife to be found in the country includes rare wild cats and lake bats, while species such as boar, otter and deer are common.
FishingThe
River Tisza, by the Kisköre reservoir, is regarded by many as Europe’s second-best angling area (after the Danube Delta). Accommodation for anglers is readily available, and guides can be hired if required. Species such as carp, bream, pike, trout and tench are abundant. There are rules and regulations governing fishing seasons and licenses; for further information, contact the Hungarian National Tourist Office (see
General Info section).
Spa staysBudapest alone has over 100 thermal springs and around 50 swimming pools and medicinal baths. The culture of bathing has been established since Roman times, and today a wide variety of therapeutic treatments, both ancient and modern, is on offer. Some of Hungary’s bath houses are also of great architectural interest: the
Király Medicinal Baths, for example, date from the Middle Ages, while the
Rudas Medicinal Baths feature a fine dome dating from the 16th century. Outside Budapest, notable spa resorts include
Debrecen in the far east;
Hévíz, near Lake Balaton;
Harkány in the south; and
Eger, northwest of Budapest. Treatment is cheaper than in western Europe or North America, and many foreign insurers will pay part of the cost.
OtherWith its long tradition of equestrianism, horseriding is particularly good in Hungary. Long-distance riding in areas such as the
Great Plain with its wide open spaces is popular, and riders are well catered for. Hungary is the only European country, apart from Ireland, which places no restrictions on riders. There are many riding schools all over the country which can organize all types of excursions. The Great Plain contains several famous stud farms, and horse shows take place regularly. Carriage driving is also popular, and tourists can arrange to have tuition in this art through riding schools. Cycling is a good way to see the country. Local tourist offices can assist in the organization of cycling tours by providing bicycles, transporting luggage and arranging picnics and sightseeing. Although bicycles can be hired in many places, those planning to do longer tours should bring their own.
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