Mátra Mountains in Hungary

The Mátra Mountains are part of the Northern Mountain Range and belong by origin to the largest young volcanic zone of Europe. They are situated between the valleys of River Tarna and River Zagyva. Although this mountain range is not of the largest area, the two highest peaks of Hungary can be found here: Kékes rises to 1014 metres and Galyatető to 964 metres. The Landscape Protection Area of the Mátra was established in 1986 - on a territory of 12141 hectares - to protect the nature and landscape of the Mátra region. This organization, which belongs to the Directorate of the Bükk National Park, makes sure that the original state of the Mátra is not disturbed by any interventions that may cause damage to its landscape and nature in the long run. The special natural values are kept safe on a strictly protected area of 2209 hectares, covered mainly with forests. All the beauties of a montane forest landscape can be found here, with natural habitats, a unique flora and fauna, geological formations of various shapes.

The most beautiful, montane beech forest communities can be found on the northern slope of Kékes, where the red-flowered, thornless Alpine Rose (Rosa pendulina) lives. Linden forests on talus slopes and in gorges indicate that this northern area has a special microclimate, with botanical rarities like the blue-flowered Alpine Clematis (Clematis alpina) that blooms in summer, and Honesty (Lunaria rediviva) that can typically be found on rocky areas. Several protected fern species also live here. More details are available on matrahegy.hu website.

Matra with Kékes peak is a famous excursion area for MTB bikers, ideal for trekking, cross-country running and forest walks. In wintertime its skislop is popular for families with small children are about to learn skiing.

Budapest Skating Rink is Open!

One of the most popular places of Budapest in the winter season is the famous skating rink right behind the Hősök tere (Heroes Square) monuments. It is a relatively huge skating ring, where all lovers of skating can enjoy this healthy sport with good hot tea even with red wine... :) The place is owned and maintained by the Budapest Municipality. They recently have launched a website for informing guests on upcomming events and open hours. It is unfortunately avaliable only in Hungarian but they promised to launch the English version soon. mujegpalya.hu Have a good skating!