If you’re looking to leave the buzz of Budapest behind, Róka Hill is the perfect destination. It only takes 90 minutes to walk around these robust yellowish rocks and limestone formations, and the panorama is amazing.
Upon our visit, Róka Hill was quiet and calm, although this changes at weekends, when it becomes a favoured destination for hikers and rock climbers. As Róka Hill is one of the most geologically precious areas in the country, rock climbing is only allowed here with specific restrictions.
Róka Hill is easily accessible by car or by HÉV suburban train to Szentendre, alighting at Csillaghegy, within the transport borders of Budapest. From the station, walk up Ürömi út, which then becomes Rókahegyi út. Soon you’ll see the red triangle signs, which you will have to follow during your the course of your trek.
After completing the first set of stairs – there will be many – the panorama is already laid out before you. If you keep climbing up, at 254 metres above sea level you can see as far as the Danube and Újpest.
Róka Hill is not a natural formation – until the 1930s and 40s, this was Budapest’s biggest limestone mine.
Although surrounded by residential areas on all sides, the flora and fauna of Róka Hill are still rich in number. There are signs drawing attention to special species to look out for, all kinds of butterflies, ravens, sparrow hawks, buzzards and bats.
As there are several special types of flowers as well, it is forbidden to pick any to take home. And if you are planning a longer day here, you’ll be glad to know that there are dedicated places for a bonfire to sizzle up some meat. Apparently there is only one bin by the entrance to the old mine, so if you can’t find it, take your rubbish with you and let this place stay remote and pristine a stone’s throw away from the city centre.
