Overview
The National Blue Trail, known locally as "Orszagos Kektura" or simply "Kektura," holds the distinction of being Europe's first long-distance hiking trail. Established in 1938, this legendary route traverses the entire length of Hungary from the Austrian border in the west to Slovakia in the northeast, covering an impressive 1,172.4 kilometers.
The trail takes hikers through an remarkable diversity of landscapes: rolling hills covered in vineyards, dense beech forests, volcanic mountains, historic castle ruins, and traditional villages that seem frozen in time. Along the way, you'll encounter three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the panorama of Budapest, the traditional village of Holloko, and the stalactite caves of Aggtelek.
Why "Blue" Trail?
The trail is marked with a horizontal blue stripe painted on trees, rocks, and posts along the entire route. This blue marking has become iconic in Hungarian hiking culture, and completing the trail is considered a significant achievement among local outdoor enthusiasts.
History
The National Blue Trail was inaugurated on June 11, 1938, making it the first national long-distance hiking trail in Europe. The trail was designed by the Hungarian Tourist Association (Magyar Turista Egyesulet) during the interwar period when hiking culture was flourishing in Central Europe.
Originally, the trail was 1,128 km long. Over the decades, it has been extended and modified, with the current official length standing at 1,172.4 km. The route has survived World War II, the communist era, and continues to be maintained by dedicated volunteers and hiking organizations.
The stamp collection tradition, where hikers collect stamps at designated checkpoints, began in 1961 and has become an integral part of the Kektura experience. Completing the entire trail and collecting all stamps earns hikers a prestigious certificate.
Trail Sections
The National Blue Trail is divided into 27 main sections, each with its own character and challenges. Here are the major regions you'll traverse:
Western Section (Irottko to Veszprem)
Distance: ~200 km
Beginning at Hungary's westernmost point near the Austrian border, this section passes through the Alps' easternmost foothills. Highlights include the charming town of Koszeg and the Bakony Forest.
Central Transdanubia (Veszprem to Budapest)
Distance: ~180 km
Features the northern shores of Lake Balaton, volcanic hills of the Balaton Uplands, and approaches Budapest through the Buda Hills. Some of the most scenic vineyard landscapes.
Budapest and Danube Bend
Distance: ~80 km
The trail passes through Budapest's Buda Hills with spectacular city views, then follows the dramatic Danube Bend past Visegrad Castle and Esztergom Basilica.
Northern Mountains (Borzsony to Matra)
Distance: ~300 km
The most mountainous section, including Hungary's highest peak, Kekes (1,014 m). Dense forests, volcanic landscapes, and the UNESCO village of Holloko.
Eastern Section (Bukk to Zemplen)
Distance: ~400 km
Passes through Bukk National Park with its limestone caves, the famous wine region of Tokaj, and ends at the Slovak border near Hollohaza.
Key Highlights
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Three UNESCO sites along the route: Budapest panorama, Holloko village, and Aggtelek caves with the largest stalactite in Europe.
Kekes Peak
Summit Hungary's highest point at 1,014 meters. The TV tower at the top offers panoramic views extending to Slovakia on clear days.
Castle Ruins
Pass dozens of medieval castle ruins including Visegrad, Sirok, and Diosgyor, each telling stories of Hungary's turbulent history.
Wine Regions
Walk through famous wine regions including Tokaj, Eger, and the Balaton Uplands, with opportunities to taste local vintages.
Planning Your Hike
When to Go
The best time to hike the National Blue Trail is from late April to early October. Spring offers wildflowers and mild temperatures, while autumn provides spectacular foliage and harvest festivals. Summer can be hot, especially in lowland sections, and some water sources may dry up.
How Long Does It Take?
Completing the entire trail typically takes 40 to 60 days, depending on your pace and how many rest days you take. Many hikers complete it in sections over several years, which also allows for deeper exploration of each region.
Accommodation Options
- Mountain Huts: Basic shelters available at regular intervals, often free or donation-based
- Guesthouses: Family-run pensions in villages along the route
- Hotels: Available in larger towns and cities
- Wild Camping: Generally tolerated in forests but check local regulations
Getting There
The trail starts at Irottko near Koszeg, accessible by train from Budapest (about 3 hours). Many hikers choose to start from Budapest itself, as the capital lies roughly at the trail's midpoint.
Stamp System
One of the unique aspects of the National Blue Trail is its stamp collection system. There are over 150 control points along the route where hikers can stamp their official booklet (igazolofuzet). These stamps serve as proof of completion and have become collectible items themselves.
Stamps can be found at:
- Mountain huts and shelters
- Tourist offices
- Restaurants and guesthouses along the route
- Special stamp boxes at remote locations
Upon completing the entire trail and collecting at least 144 stamps, hikers can apply for the official "Kektura" certificate and badge from the Hungarian Ramblers' Association.
Where to Get the Stamp Booklet
Official stamp booklets can be purchased at major hiking equipment stores in Budapest, tourist information centers in Koszeg and other gateway towns, or ordered online from kektura.hu.
Practical Tips
Navigation
While the trail is well-marked with blue stripes, carrying a GPS device or offline maps is recommended. The official Kektura app provides detailed route information and stamp locations.
Water
Natural springs are marked along the route but can be unreliable in dry periods. Always carry at least 2 liters and refill at villages when possible.
Language
English is spoken in tourist areas but rarely in small villages. Learning a few Hungarian phrases will be helpful and appreciated.
Supplies
Villages are generally spaced 15-30 km apart. Larger towns with supermarkets appear every few days. Pack snacks and emergency food.
Useful Resources
- Official Kektura Website - GPS tracks, stamp locations, and certificates
- Wikipedia - National Blue Trail - Historical background and route details
- AllTrails Kektura Page - User reviews and photos