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Írottkő Nature Park adventures

Írottkő Nature Park Adventures

Írottkő Nature Park is a transboundary protected area straddling the Austria-Hungary border, renowned for its rich biodiversity, forested ridges, and cultural heritage, offering excellent hiking and nature observation opportunities.

Approx. 24,000 acres (9,700 hectares)
Acres Protected
Over 60 miles (100 kilometers)
Miles of Trails
Estimated 50,000–75,000
Annual Visitors
1987 (Hungarian Nature Park designation)
Year Established

About Írottkő Nature Park

 

Írottkő Nature Park encompasses the mountainous region around the Írottkő Peak, the highest point of the Kőszeg Mountains, located along the Austria-Hungary border. The park covers a diverse landscape of rolling forested hills, limestone outcrops, orchards, and meadows that showcase the characteristic flora and fauna of the Western Pannonian biogeographical region. Established in 1987 (Hungarian side) and protected similarly on the Austrian side, it acts as a crucial ecological corridor preserving native bird species, wild mammals, and plant communities. The area is heavily forested primarily with beech, oak, and hornbeam trees, providing habitat for wildlife such as deer, wild boar, and various raptors. The park is also culturally significant, containing ancient stone landmarks and traditional villages like Kőszeg nearby. Recreationists are drawn to Írottkő Nature Park for its extensive network of hiking trails, scenic lookout points including the summit of Írottkő Peak (882 meters), and nature observation opportunities. The park’s transboundary cooperation enriches the visitor experience through well-maintained cross-border trails and information centers. Visitors can explore interpretative paths that highlight natural history and local folklore. The region’s gentle to moderate terrain makes it accessible to families and casual hikers, while the diverse seasonal changes enhance photography and wildlife spotting. Its combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural heritage makes Írottkő Nature Park a prized destination in Central Europe’s protected area network.

Highlights

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Írottkő Peak – highest summit in the Kőszeg Mountains with panoramic views across Austria and Hungary

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Cross-border hiking trails connecting Austria’s Geschriebenstein Nature Park with Hungarian forest paths

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Rich birdwatching opportunities including sightings of black stork and peregrine falcon

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Traditional stone landmarks and cultural heritage sites integrated into nature trails

Notable Natural Features

Írottkő Peak

The highest point in the Kőszeg Mountains at 882 meters, offering sweeping views over the Alps and Pannonian Plain.

Cross-Border Trail Network

A series of well-marked trails that connect nature parks on both sides of the Austria-Hungary border, encouraging international hiking experiences.

Ancient Stone Landmarks

Historic boundary stones and stone crosses scattered throughout the park reflecting long-standing local traditions.