Szent Gróth Arboretum
Zala
The Szent Gróth Arboretum, also known as Csácsbozsoki Arborétum, is a vast 83-hectare protected natural area located about 4 kilometers east of Zalaegerszeg city center in the Csácsbozsok district. It showcases the typical tree and shrub species of Zala county's forested landscapes, with varied terrain ranging from 196 to 302 meters above sea level. The arboretum includes swamp oak and swamp cypress in flatter areas, while hills and ridges are dominated by oak and beech forests. Historically, the land belonged to the Zalavár Abbey and was a popular local excursion site before World War II. After becoming state property in 1945, the area was managed by the Zalaegerszeg forestry authority. During the war, much of the original spruce forest was harvested for military purposes and later replanted with spruce, about 30-40 species of evergreens, and deciduous trees. The arboretum includes a research and educational experimental area with 16 species of poplar, studying planting patterns and growth. Its core 42-hectare fenced area is surrounded by 750 hectares of forest accessible via a 7.3-kilometer macadam road built in 2001, improving forest accessibility. In 2001, the local government designated the arboretum as a natural value of local significance to preserve its botanical diversity and provide a peaceful recreational space for the public. The arboretum is home to several protected plant species such as slender shield fern, primrose, turban lily, wolf's bane, cyclamen, burnet saxifrage, two-leaved toothwort, spring snowflake, and various species of bird's head and lady's slipper orchids. It is open seasonally from April to November on weekends and holidays, welcoming visitors seeking nature, education, and relaxation.
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Tip: Visit the arboretum on weekends and public holidays between April and November for optimal experience. Dogs are allowed only on a leash throughout the area. Consider visiting in spring or early autumn to see a variety of flowering protected plants. No advance ticket purchase is required, but check opening hours before planning your trip.
Interesting facts
- •The arboretum encompasses 83 hectares with a core fenced area of 42 hectares surrounded by 750 hectares of forest.
- •It features an experimental plantation of 16 poplar species for research on planting patterns and growth.
- •The area includes diverse habitats from swampy lowlands to beech-covered hills, supporting a wide range of flora.
- •Several protected plant species thrive here, including the slender shield fern and the spring snowflake.
- •A 7.3-kilometer macadam road built in 2001 significantly improved access to the forested area surrounding the arboretum.
History
Originally part of the Zalavár Abbey's estate, the area served as a favored local excursion spot before World War II.
In 1945, it became state property and came under the management of the Zalaegerszeg forestry service.
The original spruce forest was largely harvested during the war for military use and was subsequently replanted with spruce and numerous evergreen and deciduous species.
In 2001, the local government officially recognized the arboretum's core area as a natural value of local importance, aiming to preserve its dendrological collection and provide a recreational space for the public.
Place Guide
Swamp Oak and Cypress Areas
These flatter parts of the arboretum host swamp oak and swamp cypress trees, representing unique wetland forest ecosystems within the region.
Hilltop Oak and Beech Forests
The hills and ridges are dominated by oak and beech forests, showcasing the natural forest composition typical for Zala county's upland areas.
Poplar Experimental Plantation
A dedicated research area with 16 poplar species planted to study growth patterns and planting configurations for educational and scientific purposes.
Contact
Phone: (06 92) 510 250