Magical Őrség

Őrség is one of Hungary's most unique regions. The beauty and magic of the area will immediately reveal itself when you arrive—you'll see it, feel it, and experience it for yourself! This beautiful landscape of rolling hills and forests is protected by Őrség National Park, which has helped create an ever-growing network of hiking trails and nature trails. Yet perhaps the greatest attraction of the region is the opportunity to wander through untouched meadows and vast forests, becoming part of nature yourself.

The name Őrség comes from the Hungarian word őr (meaning "guard"). The region was settled by Hungarians during the period of the Hungarian conquest, with the people living here tasked with protecting the country's western borders.

When visiting the region, you may occasionally find yourself puzzled by the streets and house numbers. Őrség has a unique settlement structure known as the "szer" settlement pattern. In the past, families settled on separate hills, and these settlements were named after the families who lived there. This is how names such as Baksa-szer, Kovács-szer and Galamb-szer came about.

As a result, most villages in Őrség don't have conventional street names, and house numbers don't always follow a logical sequence. Fortunately, GPS makes getting around much easier today. And if you do happen to get lost, there's always likely to be a friendly local who will gladly point you in the right direction—or recommend a place worth visiting along the way.

Lake Vadása

Lake Vadása is just a stone's throw from our guesthouse—only 5 km away. During the summer, it is a popular destination for swimming and relaxing, while throughout the rest of the year it is ideal for leisurely walks and shorter hikes. Surrounded by beautiful scenery and bordered by a nature trail, it is a place you'll quickly fall in love with.

From here, it is also worth exploring the Szőce peat moss meadow, one of the strictly protected areas of Őrség National Park and a truly remarkable natural attraction.

If you are a fan of lakes and swimming, there are two other natural lakes nearby: Lake Borostyán in Zalalövő and Lake Hársas in Máriaújfalu. During the summer, all three lakes are suitable for swimming. Anglers also enjoy visiting them, while their beautiful surroundings make them perfect destinations for a day trip at any time of year.

Villages of Őrség

If you'd like to discover the authentic villages of Őrség, head from Kisrákos and Pankasz towards Nagyrákos, Őriszentpéter and Szalafő. Travelling from one szer to another, over rolling hills and through beautiful countryside, you'll discover charming villages and plenty of local sights.

In Nagyrákos, the local heritage house (tájház) hosts the annual Völgyhídi Fair, held every July. Families will also find a well-equipped playground for children.

When you arrive in Őriszentpéter, you'll notice that it is somewhat larger than the surrounding villages—and for good reason. Known as the capital of Őrség, it has officially held city status since 2005 and serves as the regional centre for events, festivals, and activities.

The visitor centre of Őrség National Park is also located here. The staff can provide extensive information about the region's flora and fauna, as well as recommend activities and hiking routes.

The town's cultural centre houses a local history exhibition. At the village's open farms and workshops, you can purchase handcrafted souvenirs and see local artisans at work.

 
On Templom-szer, you will find the renowned St. Peter's Church, an Árpád-era church of great historical importance. Beneath it are the remains of a medieval brick kiln.

Szalafő

Don't miss Szalafő during your visit to Őrség! At Pityerszer, you can experience the traditional architecture and way of life of the region at the historic folk architectural complex.

In recent years, wild horses and European bison have also been introduced to the area. Families with children will find both indoor and outdoor playgrounds, as well as a small traditional village shop where you can pick up a souvenir of your trip.

And if you visit Szalafő, you simply must try the region's famous pumpkin seed oil! Alongside pumpkin seed oil, you can also purchase a variety of other specialty oils, and at some of the open farms you can even try pressing the oil yourself.

The recently completed Kömpe-Szeme lookout tower offers beautiful views over the surrounding landscape. Once you see the view from the top, you'll probably find yourself wondering when you can come back again.

Continuing west from here, you can reach the Vendvidék region, close to the Slovenian border. The landscape is beautiful, and the many forests and meadows are well worth exploring, whether on foot or by bicycle.

You can also travel to Austria via Szentgotthárd. Among the nearby destinations, Güssing is particularly worth visiting, with its fairytale-like Batthyány Castle dramatically situated on top of a volcanic hill.

Velemér, Lendava and Dobronak

Continuing south, you'll reach Velemér, a true hidden gem.

One of its greatest treasures is the Holy Trinity Church of Velemér, one of the most remarkable churches in Hungary. Its famous frescoes were created by John Aquila (János Aquila).

The charming village has also attracted many artists and craftspeople who have chosen to make it their home. They are happy to welcome visitors and share their work with those exploring the area.

If you have enough time, we also recommend crossing the border into Slovenia. Lendava and Dobronak are both close to the Hungarian border, and you will encounter Hungarian-speaking communities throughout the area.

Lendava is beautifully situated and offers both a historic castle and a modern lookout tower. Dobronak is famous not only for its orchid farm but also for its Energy Park, a wooded area with hiking trails, a small lake, a forest chapel, and a healing spring.

Thermal Baths and Restaurants

For those looking to relax in thermal waters, there are several options nearby, including both traditional thermal baths and modern water parks. The three closest destinations are Lenti, Szentgotthárd and Körmend.

You are also welcome to explore the local restaurants and cafés. Many of them proudly serve authentic Őrség specialties and are well prepared to introduce visitors to the flavours of the region.

When visiting Őrség, be sure to try some of the local dishes, including dödölle (a traditional potato dish), wild game stew, buckwheat and porcini mushroom dishes, and pumpkin-and-poppy-seed strudel.

And if you're not planning to drive afterwards, don't miss the opportunity to sample some authentic Őrség pálinka, the region's traditional fruit brandy!

One thing is certain: if you are a lover of nature, your appreciation for it will only grow deeper during your time in Őrség.