Thirring Rocks

When enjoying the view over the Danube Bend from the lookout terrace of Dobogó-kő we are standing on huge rock outcrop. As it is located on the edge of the ridge the trees are far below.

This is not the only rock outcrop in the area but just one of the several volcanic formations around there. A row of rocks as well as the picturesque path passing by was named after renowned Hungarian geographer Gusztáv Thirring.

The formations are made up by rocks of different size and shape ranging from tiny pebbles to huge blocks. Visegrád Mountains is one in the chain of volcanoes along the inner rim of the Carpathian Range that derived from the tectonic shifts below the Carpathian Basin around 16.5 million years ago. This chain of volcanoes stretches from Visegrád Mountains to Hargita (Transylvania, Romania), from old to young eastward. Volcanic magma broke through calcareous sedimentary rock (making up Pilis Mountains) abundant in water. As hot magma encountered water their interaction resulted in steam pressure released through explosive eruptions ejecting debris all around.

As the volcanic dome of Visegrád Mountains was getting higher and steeper gravity sent huge avalanches of debris to the bottom filling valleys around. Hot volcanic material accumulated and cemented together forming hard and resistant andesite breccia blocks. As their softer surroundings had eroded these formations rose high above their environment. These are the rocks that the Thirring Trail guides you around.

The steep hillside narrows down some sections of the trail so much that safety chains were needed to secure passing by. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes especially in rainy or snowy weather. Do not climb on the rocks.

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