Őrség, an unspoiled natural treasure in Western Hungary

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.

Regardless 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.