National Geographic Traveler - USA (2019-12 & 2020-01)

DECEMBER 2019/JANUARY 2020 81

IF YOU LIKE

WHY GO NOW

Take a hike on

a lesser known

European path

Despite its lack of soaring peaks (the highest is 3,327-foot
Mount Kékes), Hungary is a dream hiking destination
thanks to the country’s National Blue Trail. Meandering
about 700 miles from Irottko Mountain, on the western
border with Austria, to the northeastern village of
Hollóháza near Slovakia, the Blue Trail (Kéktúra in
Hungarian) is a wonderfully diverse web of paths labeled
with white-and-blue-striped way markers.
Originating in 1938 and recognized as Europe’s first
long-distance trail, it’s part of the nearly 6,500-mile
European long-distance walking route E4, which begins
in Spain and ends (with ferry connections) in Cyprus.
So, while you could use the Blue Trail as a launch pad
for an epic, cross-Europe trek, Hungary’s historic route
is best experienced as a singular destination. Whether
for a day hike or multinight trek, there’s a Blue Trail route
fine-tailored to fit most interests. Paths climb gentle hills,
traverse thick forests and extinct volcanoes, lead to moun-
tain vistas and through medieval cities, and pass resorts
on western Hungary’s nearly 50-mile-long Lake Balaton.
Among the many cultural detours are World Heritage
sites, such as the Old Village of Hollókő and the Buda
Castle Quarter in Budapest.

HOW TO GO

Get a Blue Trail passport to earn

stamps at checkpoints along the

route. Collect all 147 stamps and

receive a coveted Blue Trail Badge,

or complete one of the three

stretches awarding section-hike

badges. kektura.hu/cimlap.html

WHEN TO GO

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