Day Trips from Eger

The perfect itinerary – in the morning: hiking in a lush forest of the Bükk Mountain, in the afternoon: soaking in a medicinal thermal bath, and in the evening: drinking delicious wines in a local cellar.

Contents:
Szalajka Valley
Laskó Stream Valley
Szépasszony Valley

Szalajka Valley

Flanked by the Bükk mountain range, which has the largest contiguous forested area in Hungary, Eger offers abundant opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking. The most popular activity is a walk through the Szalajka Valley [Szalajka-völgy] in the village of Szilvásvárad. This forest walk features water cascades, including the famous Veil Waterfall [Fátyol-vízesés], as well as lakes, an open-air forestry museum, and an adventure park. From the Upper Lake [Felső-tó], visitors can embark on a short yet steep hike to a prehistoric cave that holds great archaeological significance, as it contained the remains of two Stone Age men: Neanderthal and Cro-Magnon. Apart from walking, the valley offers various modes of exploration, such as riding the narrow-gauge forest train, biking, or even taking a horse-drawn carriage. Szilvásvárad is also well-known for its trout farming and the presence of Lipizzaner horses.

Gyógyvizek völgye

In addition to Eger’s swimming pools and spas, visitors can also venture into the valley of the Laskó Stream [Laskó-patak], better known as the Valley of Medicinal Waters. There are two spa centers in the area: Egerszalók and Demjén. The history of these spas dates back to 1961 when engineers were looking for oil in the valley. However, instead of oil, they discovered a 27,000-year-old, mineral-rich, 68°C thermal water. In 1992, this water was classified as medicinal, suitable for treating joint problems like rheumatism and arthritis, as well as post-injury rehabilitation. The main attraction of the valley is the Salt Hill [Sódomb] in Egerszalók. As the mineral-rich thermal water flows down the hillside, the salty sediment creates stunning limestone terraces that resemble a miniature version of Turkey’s famous Pamukkale.

Szépasszony-völgy

For centuries, Eger has been renowned for its historic vineyards, which were established by Italian and Walloon settlers in the 13th century. Bull’s Blood [Bikavér] is the region’s most famous red wine. According to local legend, during the Ottoman siege of 1552, the defenders of the Eger Castle were able to fend off the excess force by drinking Bull’s Blood, as the Ottomans were unable to consume alcohol.

Today, visitors to the city can sample these legendary wines at the Szépasszony Valley [Szépasszony-völgy], which is widely regarded as the best place for wine tasting due to its stunning scenery and charming atmosphere. Although the origins of the valley’s name are shrouded in mystery, some suggest it may have been named after a Venus-like love goddess of an ancient religion, while others believe it was named after a beautiful woman who sold fine wines in one of the cellars, or even after a woman of questionable morality. Regardless, the valley remains a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.