People take nature trails seriously here in Budapest – we visit Rupp Hill to check out one of the most valuable habitats on the Buda side. From peaceful, shady woodlands to spectacular views, Rupp Hill is a great green getaway from fast-paced urban life.
The Csíki hills are the southernmost of the Buda slopes. At their eastern end, in District XI, is Rupp Hill, named after its former owner, a citizen of Buda named György Rupp.
Hilly Pösingermajor preserves the memory of pharmacist Ferenc Ignác Bösinger, who came to Buda from Vienna around 1680. He owned the Golden Unicorn Pharmacy, later called the Golden Eagle and now a museum, on Dísz tér in the Castle District. He was also mayor of Buda, where he owned the Pösingermajor vineyards and orchards.
By public transport, take bus 8E from the city centre and alight at Irhás árok. Then turn to Törökbálinti út and in about five minutes, you reach the six-station nature trail showing the hill and its natural features. (Note that Google’s route planner will want to take you around Ördögorom at all costs!)
The trail is generally easy in terrain, initially passing through a linden and oak forest. Later, the forest becomes thinner and large grassy areas follow: dolomite rock grasslands and sloping steppes. Arriving at the top of the hill 257 metres high, you can admire the panoramic view of the Gazdagréti housing estate, Széchenyi-hegy, and the Tétényi plateau. On the descent, the path becomes steeper, and you are led back to the first sign.
Today, Rupp Hill is one of the most valuable and diverse habitats on the Buda side, so hikers are asked to refrain from deviating from the path, as it disturbs local wildlife and may harm protected plants.
It’s worth checking out some other hiking trails in the area, especially as the hill is close to the Ördög-orom Nature Reserve and Frank Hill. If you’re really looking for a hearty trek, from here you can reach Széchenyi Hill, Normafa and János Hill.
