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Old Bakony
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Landmark
The Old Bakony (Öreg-Bakony) is the central and highest region of the Bakony Mountains in Western Hungary. This area is characterized by vast limestone plateaus, rugged gorges, and extensive beech forests that form one of the largest continuous forested areas in the country. It is home to the range's highest peak, Kőris-hegy, which stands at 704 meters and features a lookout tower providing views as far as Lake Balaton and the Alps. Geologically, the Old Bakony is rich in karst features, including numerous caves and sinkholes, with the Cuha Stream Valley being a highlight for its scenic railway and hiking paths. Historically, the area was a significant monastic center, anchored by the Cistercian Abbey in Zirc, founded in 1182, which houses a world-famous historic library. The dense woods once served as hideouts for the legendary Bakony 'betyárs' (outlaws), whose stories remain a staple of local folklore. Today, the Old Bakony is a haven for hikers and nature lovers, with the National Blue Trail traversing its most beautiful landscapes.
- Location: Veszprém, Hungary
- Top sights: Pörgöl-barlang · Játék- és Nosztalgiamúzeum · Bakonyi Erdők Háza
- Nearby: Herend (14 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | 0 | 5 | 11 | 16 | 20 | 23 | 22 | 16 | 11 | 5 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 39 | 38 | 41 | 33 | 65 | 66 | 61 | 64 | 60 | 50 | 44 | 42 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Old Bakony (Öreg Bakony) is a natural forest area in Hungary, open to hikers and nature lovers. Marked trails and shelters are available for visitors.
Typical hours
The forest is accessible at any time as it is a free-access natural area. Best visited during daylight, and some trails may be impassable after heavy rain.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the forest area. The dense beech woods offer excellent photo subjects, especially in autumn foliage.
Time needed
A hike through the Old Bakony can take 2 to 6 hours depending on the chosen route. Short walks of 1-2 hours are also possible to enjoy the scenery.
Combine with
Combine the forest visit with a detour to Szentgál Castle or the Balaton Uplands. The Marcal River Valley is also nearby and worth exploring.
Getting there
The Old Bakony is located in Veszprém county, about 15 km northwest of Veszprém city. It is accessible by car via secondary roads; parking is available at trailheads.
Insider tip
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring a map or GPS device, as trails are not always well-marked. Start early in the morning to enjoy the forest's tranquility.
Geography
Facts
- Kőris-hegy is the highest point of the Bakony at 704 meters.
- The Cistercian Abbey in Zirc was founded in 1182.
- The Cuha Valley railway is a protected industrial monument.
- The area contains one of Hungary's largest continuous forests.
- The dense woods were famous as 19th-century outlaw hideouts.
- Geologically, the region is dominated by marine limestone.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Old Bakony (9)
Erzsébet-kilátó
Lookout tower in the Bakony, named after Erzsébet, with panoramic views.
Faluház, Tourinform🏛 museum
Village hall and tourist information point in the Bakony.
Nagy-Som-hegy
Mountain in Veszprém County, Hungary, in the Bakony Forest.
Több ezer éves sánc
Archaeological site in the Bakony, a thousands-year-old earthwork.
Tönkölös-hegy
Mountain in Hungary, located in the Bakony Forest.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the most famous gorge in the Bakony?
The Cuha Valley is the most famous gorge. A scenic railway line with tunnels and viaducts also runs through it.
Which castle is worth visiting in the Bakony?
Csesznek Castle is a must-see. It perches on a rock and features via ferrata routes for the adventurous.
Is the Bakony difficult terrain for hiking?
Most trails are of moderate difficulty. However, there are rocky sections and steep climbs, so good hiking boots are required.
Where can you stop for food in the Bakony?
Bakonybél and Zirc are good bases with restaurants that often serve local game dishes.
Are there waterfalls in the Bakony?
The most famous is the Római-fürdő waterfall near Bakonynána, where the Gaja stream plunges through a narrow rocky gorge.
Old Bakony: where is it located?
Old Bakony is located in Veszprém, Hungary.
Old Bakony: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pörgöl-barlang, Játék- és Nosztalgiamúzeum, Bakonyi Erdők Háza.
Old Bakony: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Old Bakony: why is it worth visiting?
The Old Bakony (Öreg-Bakony) is the central and highest region of the Bakony Mountains in Western Hungary.
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