Karancs-Medves Landscape Protection Area, Landscape park in Nógrád County, Hungary.
Karancs-Medves Landscape Protection Area is a protected zone featuring forests, rolling hills, and exposed rock formations scattered throughout. The region comprises two distinct geological sections with different stone types and terrain shapes.
The area received official protection status in 1989 after recognizing its geological and natural value. The two sections formed during different volcanic periods, creating distinct stone types and landscape characteristics.
Castles perched on basalt cones like Salgó demonstrate how early settlers used the landscape to establish control and visibility. These structures remain central to how people understand and perceive the region today.
Marked hiking trails wind through the area and are maintained by nature conservation staff, while cycling is restricted to designated routes. Visitors should wear proper footwear and prepare for elevation changes on the paths.
The Medves plateau ranks among Central Europe's largest basalt formations, with its internal structure revealed through former mining and quarrying activities. These excavations expose the layers and composition that make up this geological feature.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.