Superlatives and Treasures

Hungary's highest peak and smallest village, the first printed Hungarian-language Bible from the sixteenth century, and the oldest narrow-gauge forest railway from the nineteenth are all in this region. The country's best known wine, the Tokay aszú, matures in the cellars of Northern Hungary. One of Europe's most beautiful equestrian stud farms and its most extensive stalactite cave systems are to be found here. The region is proud to own three of Hungary's eight World Heritage sites, designated by UNESCO as places of outstanding natural and cultural interest.
The nearest town in Northern Hungary is a mere thirtyseven miles from Budapest. Its farthest borders are on the banks of the River Tisza. It shares a boundary with Slovakia in the north and the Great Plain in the south. Its five divisions – Cserhát, Mátra, Bükk, Cserehát and Zemplén – contain a wealth of mediaeval castles, plush 16th and 17th century country mansions, renowned churches, and historical villages and towns known today for their folk art and traditions.
Everyone will find a leisure activity in this region to suit their taste, even those looking for something special or a sport that is not mainstream. You can collect minerals, taste sweets in the candy museum, go rock climbing and hang gliding, discover ancient history on designated study paths, go caving, take tours round the towns, enjoy a photo safari taking pictures of birdlife, learn wood carving or basket weaving. Hunters and fishermen are happy to spend time in a land where the woods are rich in game, and the lakes, rivers and streams abundant in fish. The country is ideal for walkers, with over six hundred miles of marked paths to choose from, as well as for cyclists and for those on horseback, who can go on organized treks. The Rivers Tisza and Sajó, and the more challenging and fast-flowing Hernád and Bódva, are suitable for experienced rowers and canoeists; the slower more friendly Bodrog is ideal for beginners.
Visitors hoping for a slightly less active holiday need look no further than the area's famous health spas and lakes. They can enjoy opera or concerts of classical music at the summer cultural festivals, or take part in town pageants and tournaments. There are interesting shrines to discover and region-houses displaying traditional folk crafts. You can taste traditional foods prepared in authentic ovens, while in the evening you can visit the four celebrated wine regions – Mátraalja, Eger, Bükkalja and Tokaj-Hegyalja – where you can sample Hungarians wines famous the world over.
Accommodation is also plentiful throughout Northern Hungary and visitors can choose from a whole range of star-rated hotels, mansion hotels, guest houses, campsites and guest rooms in simple village houses. The local people are open, friendly and helpful, and welcome visitors with genuine hospitality.

Hungarian National Tourist Office
www.hungarytourism.hu