Panoramic circular route from Alsópetény

Itinerary

• We start from Alsópetény heading north along Arany János Street following the National Blue Trail K marks. On the left side, we get a nice panorama of the houses of Alsópetény before reaching the Kékesi Hunting Lodge.
• At the junction of the hiking trails, we make a short detour to the left on the K▲ mark to the Prónay Lookout. Returning to the junction, we continue on the S+ mark.
• Our path ends in a T-junction, where we turn right on the S mark. After some descent, the S◼ marks appear on the right, which will guide us back to the starting point via the Cser Lake.

Detailed description of the route

Leaving behind the neat little houses of Alsópetény, we continuously climb uphill to the lookout - the ascent only eases in a few sections. There is no need to be scared; numerous sights tempt us to stop and catch our breath during the climb. Following the K signs, we soon reach the top of the steep cliff of Korpa Hill, from where we enjoy a special bird's-eye panorama of the roofs of Alsópetény and the hills surrounding the settlement.

The next section presents a real challenge for the hiker during the scorching summer heat: walking uphill on the dusty, sandy path, often in areas without shade. It is worth keeping a sharp eye on the information boards not to miss the signs.

From the summit of Korpa Hill, we descend to the Kékesi Hunting Lodge. Unfortunately, the building has been closed for many years, although future plans include its renovation and conversion into a hostel. Nevertheless, it is still a perfect spot to stop and rest: after crossing the wooden footbridge, there are several benches and tables where we can comfortably eat. In case of a heavy shower, we can shelter under the spacious, huge balcony — and the stone-built lower and wooden upper structure surrounding the house is even perfect for bivouacking as a stopover on a longer hike.

From here, we climb up through the side of Kecske-kő. We switch from the K mark to the left-branching K▲ mark that leads to the Prónay Lookout standing on the 421-meter-high peak. After admiring the panoramic view, we return on the familiar K▲ mark. Arriving at the K mark, turn right, then switch left after 50 meters to the S+ mark!

For a while, we proceed on level ground, then gradually descend; the pleasant downhill persists until the end of the route. Winding through the valleys between the hills, the hiking trail meanders below us. Far from civilization, the untouched forest canopy spreads above our heads on this section.

Our path ends in a T-junction where the S and the Cserhát Green Trail marked with a green Z run across. The latter is special for two reasons: first, it was designed to be traversed on foot, horseback, bicycle, or other motorless vehicles. Second, it is an excellent example of the cooperation between the Cserhát Nature Park and local communities; their common goal is the preservation and presentation of natural and cultural values.

We turn right at the junction, then after 800 meters turn right again, switching to the S◼ mark, which will accompany us all the way back to Alsópetény. The path descends through the forest and then reaches agricultural land. From here, the idyllic Cser Lake is not far, created by damming the Petényi Stream originating at the foot of Kő Hill. The five-hectare water surface surrounded by hills draws not only fishing enthusiasts but also hikers. Sitting on the shore, enjoying the landscape, we can eat from our backpacks and, with a permit, fish - and if we pay for a pitch for the night and stay here overnight, shower facilities are also provided.

After leaving the lake, be careful not to lose the path leading to the village, as the signs at the junction are hard to see. After turning right at the dried tree stump onto the dirt road, we must soon notice a narrow little trail on the left after 60 meters. From late spring to late summer, the signs painted on the stones are hidden by the tall vegetation. Along the trail parallel to the Petényi Stream, fenced and enclosed properties soon appear, then we enter the settlement.

After leaving the May 1 Street, we turn onto Rózsa Street, passing the Prónay Castle building, then arriving at the main street of the village, Petőfi Street. We can stop to see extraordinary memorials commemorating the heroes of the world wars and the 1956 revolution on the right.

Returning to the starting point, it is worth visiting the Hármaskönyv Inn, also called the region's gastronomical pilgrimage site, where delicious local dishes are served on wooden plates.