Exploring the Wild Beauty of Hortobagy National Park with Friends

A Fond Farewell to the Puszta

As our week-long adventure in Hortobágy National Park drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared. From the vast grasslands to the unique wildlife, and the warm hospitality of the Hungarian people, this trip has been nothing short of extraordinary. Today was a day of tying up loose ends, revisiting favorite spots, and savoring the last moments in this magical place before heading back to Berlin.

Our final day began, as many others had, with a hearty breakfast at the Hortobágyi Csárda. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air, mingling with the excited chatter of locals and tourists alike. I opted for the traditional Hungarian breakfast of sausages, eggs, and a generous dollop of sour cream. It was the perfect fuel for our morning adventure. The Csárda itself is the oldest building in Hortobagy, and the most famous and largest Csárda (inn) in the Great Plain, catering to travellers and tourists.


Discover authentic Hungarian flavors at Hortobágyi Csárda in beautiful Hortobágy – where tradition meets taste.
After breakfast, we decided to pay one last visit to the iconic Nine-Hole Bridge. The bridge, a symbol of Hortobágy, spans the Hortobágy River with its nine distinct arches, each a testament to the architectural ingenuity of the 19th century. The Nine-Hole Bridge stands as an emblem of Hungary's rich history. The bridge was constructed between 1827 and 1833, and before 1921, it was the longest stone bridge in Hungary.


Explore the unique Nine-Hole Bridge in Hortobágy, a stunning architectural marvel surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife.
As we approached, the morning sun cast long shadows across the landscape, highlighting the bridge's elegant form. I couldn't resist snapping a few more photos, trying to capture the essence of this remarkable structure. The bridge has a fascinating history; it wasn't just built for aesthetic purposes but served as a crucial piece of infrastructure, facilitating commerce and transportation across the Hortobágy. Before the stone bridge, there was a wooden bridge that required costly repairs, and in 1825, the city of Debrecen decided to replace it.
We strolled across the bridge, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding plains. The vastness of the landscape was breathtaking, stretching out in every direction as far as the eye could see. I imagined the countless herds of animals that had crossed this bridge over the centuries, their hooves echoing on the stone. The entrances to the bridge are broader to make it easier for the herdsman to get animals onto the bridge.
Saoirse would have loved running around here, feeling the wind in her hair. I made a mental note to bring the family back next year; Hans is due a holiday, and I know Saoirse would adore the wildlife. While I was lost in thought, one of my friends pointed out a group of Hungarian Grey cattle grazing peacefully in the distance. These majestic creatures are a defining symbol of the Hortobágy, their longhorns and distinctive grey coats instantly recognizable. I raised my binoculars for a closer look, marveling at their serene presence in this ancient landscape. What a sight!

The beauty of Hortobágy lies not only in its landscapes but also in its ability to transport you to a simpler, more connected way of life.

After our visit to the Nine-Hole Bridge, we decided to indulge in one last traditional Hungarian meal at the Hortobágyi Csárda. We sat at a rustic wooden table, soaking in the cozy atmosphere and reminiscing about our favorite moments from the trip. The restaurant is the most famous and largest inn in the Alföld (Great Plain) and the oldest building in Hortobagy.

For lunch, I ordered the *pörkölt*, a hearty meat stew simmered in rich paprika sauce. The tender meat practically melted in my mouth, and the sauce was bursting with flavor. I savored every bite, knowing that it would be a while before I tasted anything quite like it again. We also shared a plate of *lángos*, deep-fried flatbread topped with sour cream and cheese. It was the perfect comfort food, and we devoured it in minutes. I think we ate at least one meal a day at the Hortobágyi Csárda!

As we ate, we discussed our plans for the journey back to Berlin. We had an early flight to catch from Budapest, so we planned to leave Hortobágy in the late afternoon. The thought of returning to the hustle and bustle of city life filled me with a tinge of sadness. I would miss the peace and tranquility of the Puszta, the wide-open spaces, and the sense of connection to nature.

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through the village, browsing the local shops and soaking in the atmosphere. I picked up a few souvenirs to take home to Hans and Saoirse: a hand-painted wooden horse, a bottle of local honey, and a small book of Hungarian folk tales. I hoped these little mementos would capture the spirit of our adventure and remind them of the beauty of Hortobágy. I also managed to find a fridge magnet with a picture of the Nine-Hole Bridge on it; it'll certainly brighten up our kitchen in Berlin!

As the afternoon wore on, it was time to say our goodbyes. We packed up our camping gear, loaded it into the rental car, and took one last look at the vast plains of Hortobágy. The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm golden glow across the landscape. It was a truly magical moment, one that I would cherish forever.

Driving away from Hortobágy, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared. This trip had been more than just a vacation; it had been a journey of discovery, a chance to connect with nature, and an opportunity to create lasting memories with friends. As an ESL teacher in Berlin, I often encourage my students to step outside their comfort zones and explore new cultures. This trip to Hortobágy was a perfect example of why I believe in the power of travel. It broadens your perspective, challenges your assumptions, and leaves you with a deeper understanding of the world around you.

I'm already looking forward to planning our next adventure. Perhaps we'll explore the rolling hills of Tuscany, the ancient ruins of Greece, or the vibrant streets of Marrakech. The possibilities are endless, and I can't wait to see where our travels take us next. But for now, I'll cherish the memories of Hortobágy, the land of horses, cowboys, and endless horizons. Until next time, Puszta!

As we drove towards Budapest, I reflected on the week. I will need a portable phone charger and sunscreen for my next trip. Oh well.