Bükk National Park, National park in Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County, Hungary.
Bükk National Park is a protected area in the mountains of Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County in northern Hungary, covering forested slopes, rocky plateaus, and narrow valleys. The terrain is crossed by marked hiking paths that lead to viewpoints, karst springs, and over 1000 recorded caves.
People have sought shelter in these mountains since the Stone Age, with cave walls sometimes still showing traces of ancient dwellings and hearths. The protected area was officially established in 1977 to preserve the landscape and its wildlife.
The name Bükk means beech in Hungarian, referring to the dense beech forests that cover much of the protected area and turn golden brown in autumn. Hikers often encounter traditional wooden huts along the trails, once used by charcoal burners and hunters, now serving as rest stops.
Most hiking trails are accessible from spring through autumn, while certain cave areas require a guide to enter. Information centers provide maps and advice on route selection and current conditions.
The park is among the few places in Europe with official recognition as a Dark Sky Park, meaning the Milky Way is clearly visible to the naked eye on clear nights. Some caves host rare bat species that hang in large groups from the ceilings during winter.
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