A few days ago, I decided to time-travel to the scene of one of my sweetest childhood memories, and well, here I am. Please let me introduce my country’s wonderfully green and unspoiled region to you: Őrség (means „Guard”). This magnificent area, at the western corner of Hungary, is a pure natural treasure, where you won't see any shopping malls and fancy restaurants, but will release all your piled-up stress. Located at the junction of the Austrian, Slovenian and Hungarian borders, Őrség comprises of different landforms. Here you can find unique hills, formed by uncountable streams and rivers, close to a thousand springs, mysterious moorlands, wildflower meadows, and resinous woods. All the tiny and natty villages make the overall picture even better. The lovers of water tours, forest-roaming, and hiking, will, without a doubt, find this place a real gem.
Hiking in the woods along the fairy streams
I grew up in the west Hungarian town, Zalaegerszeg, located close to Őrség region. Zalaegerszeg also has dozens of natural treasures, such as Azáleás Valley, a flourishing gem at the edge of the city. Whenever my family and I fancied some outdoor activities, we easily agreed on the destination. Since Őrség is only a 30-minute drive from my home, it was often a straightforward decision, and we never regretted it. Hiking in the woods along the fairy streams and eating at excellent authentic local restaurants, were always a refreshing and relaxing all-day plan for the whole family.
Perfect facilities for hunting and fishing
Not surprisingly, countless school trips bring kids to Őrség throughout the years. I remember a particular school trip when I fell in love with this place, its beauty, and its magic. Every country has its unique gems, but I proudly recommend to visit Őrség if you are in the neighborhood. Moreover, Őrség is not just a brilliant place for excursions; it also offers excellent opportunities for those who are after trophy hunting and fishing.
GÓ-NA Leisure Centre
I want to show you a particular place where I, and many of other Hungarian kids, spent the most memorable school trips of our childhoods: GÓ-NA Leisure Centre. This captivating place can be found in the town of Szentgyörvölgy, only eight kilometers from the Slovenian border. GÓ-NA offers you absolutely everything that you can ask for during an outdoor excursion. There are many sports amenities like tennis and basketball courts, football pitches, table tennis area, a swimming pool, and more. You can ride a horse or a bike, have lunch and dinner outside at multiple sophisticated spots such as the terrace, or enjoy near a separated barbecue place. Naturally, there are nice options for accommodation as well.
Gó-Na Leisure Centre
Szentgyörgyvölgy, 8975 MagyarországRegardless of where you go within Őrség, it's hard to get disappointed. Your choice of the accurate destination, in this corner of Western Hungary, is only a pleasant burden when planning the trip. Őrség is a wonderfully green and unspoiled natural treasure, and even though it doesn't have white-sanded beaches or sky-high mountains, it leaves its visitors amazed.
The author
Vivi Bencze
Are you ready to experience this story yourself?