Hiking Opportunities in Őrség
The enchanting landscapes of Őrség offer countless opportunities for nature lovers to explore and unwind. In this collection, we introduce hiking destinations where peaceful lakes, educational trails, and woodland walks await those looking to relax and reconnect with nature.
Lake Vadása
Lake Vadása, located near Hegyhátszentjakab, was created by damming a stream, as is the case with several other lakes in Őrség. A pleasant walking trail runs around the lake, making it an enjoyable destination even in cooler weather. The lake is a popular spot for swimming and fishing.
Lake Hársas, Máriaújfalu
Created in the late 1980s by damming the Hársas Stream, Lake Hársas is part of Őrség National Park. Nestled in a valley surrounded by forests, it is a popular destination for hiking and fishing.
After leaving Máriaújfalu—which administratively belongs to Szentgotthárd—in the direction of Farkasfa, the elongated lake can be found on the right-hand side. Car parks are available at both ends of the lake, while a paved path along the shore provides easy access on foot.
The lake can be walked around in its entirety, with the trail measuring approximately 2.1 km. Children can also enjoy a playground by the lake.
Hímfa Forest Park and Lake Hímfa
The Fekete-tó (Black Lake) is located northwest of the village, between Orfalu and Farkasfa. Today, it no longer has an open water surface and is instead characterized by wetland and marshland.
According to a local folk legend associated with the Black Lake, a church once stood where the lake is today. One Christmas, a woman who was late for Mass said that she wished she would sink into the ground out of shame—and her wish came true. Ever since, the sound of bells has supposedly been heard rising from the depths of the Black Lake at midnight on Christmas Eve.
The area can only be visited with a professional guide.
Fürge Cselle Nature Trail – Kercaszomor
Starting from the village, this nature trail introduces visitors to the wildlife of the Kerca Stream and its surroundings, the vegetation of the meadows and forests, and the area's rich butterfly population.
The trail is accessible on foot only and is approximately 3.2 km long.
The trail has eight stations:
- Wildlife of the Kerca Stream
- Beech and hornbeam-oak forests
- Tall-herb vegetation
- Wildlife of the meadows along the Kerca
- Shrublands
- Native and planted tree species
- Streambed restoration
- The butterfly fauna of the meadows along the Kerca
In the 1960s, the stream was given a new channel. A streambed restoration project launched in 2006 has been working to restore the original conditions and help preserve the area's rich biodiversity.