Zselic, Protected natural area in Baranya County, Hungary.
Zselic is a hill region of about 1,200 km² on the Somogy–Baranya county border, between Kaposvár and Szigetvár, built of Pannonian sediments covered by loess. Its highest point is Hollófészek at 358 m, and its valleys and ridges run mainly north–south. It holds 140 springs gathered by seven streams, including the Almás-patak and the Gyöngyös.
This area gained official protection status in 1976, representing a turning point for nature conservation in Hungary. This designation led to the systematic preservation of its diverse forest and hill landscapes.
The region is nicknamed "Land of a Thousand Ravines". In Szennas, an open-air museum shows village buildings, and the Almamellék forest railway runs through the hills. Since 2009 the Zselic has been Hungary's first dark-sky area, and its clear night skies are part of local programming.
Marked hiking trails run through the southern part of the region and provide access to its natural landscapes for visitors of all abilities. These paths are well-maintained and relatively easy to follow, especially if you start early in the day.
The region functions as a dark-sky reserve where artificial light is kept minimal and stars become exceptionally clear at night. This darkness makes it a special place for watching the night sky.
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