Szilvásvárad Forest Railway
Heves
The Szilvásvárad Forest Railway is a historic narrow-gauge railway operating in the Bükk Mountains of Northern Hungary. Originally built in 1908 primarily for timber transport on the estates of Károly Wessely, it now serves as a popular tourist attraction running between Szalajkavölgy-Fatelep and the Fátyol Waterfall. The railway spans approximately 4.5 kilometers with a track gauge of 760 mm and is renowned for its harmonious integration with the natural environment, featuring over 350 culverts to allow free water flow. It is one of Hungary's busiest forest railways, with over 200,000 annual passengers, ranking third after the Children's Railway in Budapest and the Lillafüred State Forest Railway. The line's engineering highlights include a unique cable railway (siklópálya) built in 1921 to connect two sections with different elevations and a turntable to manage steep gradients. Over time, the railway transitioned from freight-only use to passenger service starting in 1953, and today it offers visitors a nostalgic journey through picturesque landscapes, including the Szalajka Valley and near the Fátyol Waterfall. The line is operated by Egererdő Zrt and features historic steam and diesel locomotives, some of which are preserved in the nearby Forest Museum. The railway not only provides transportation but also a cultural and historical experience reflecting the forestry heritage of the region.
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Tip: The railway operates daily from April 1 to November 1, with more frequent services during summer months and holidays. It is recommended to check the official timetable online before visiting to plan your trip. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and there are special event rides such as the 'Santa Claus Train' in early December. Visiting in spring or early autumn offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Combine the railway ride with hikes to nearby attractions like the Fátyol Waterfall, Istállós-kő Cave, and the Lipizzan stud farm for a full day of exploration.
Interesting facts
- •The railway is one of the busiest forest railways in Hungary, with over 200,000 passengers annually.
- •The unique cable railway (siklópálya) built in 1921 connected two sections with different gauges and significant elevation differences.
- •The railway features a turntable to manage steep gradient sections in the Kukucsó Valley.
- •Historic steam locomotives named Eleonóra and Csillag once operated on the line; remnants of Eleonóra are displayed in the Forest Museum.
- •Passenger service began relatively late, in 1953, long after the railway's initial freight use.
- •The upper section of the railway was regauged from 600 mm to 760 mm in 1948 to unify operations and improve efficiency.
History
Construction of the Szilvásvárad Forest Railway began in 1908 to facilitate timber transport on Wessely Károly's forest estates.
Due to significant elevation differences, the railway was built in two sections with different gauges, connected by a cable railway built in 1921.
Initially, it served exclusively freight purposes, but after World War II, passenger services started in 1953, expanding its role to tourism and local transport.
Post-war developments included standardizing the upper section's gauge to 760 mm by 1948 to allow through-running of rolling stock and the introduction of diesel locomotives in the 1960s.
Over time, road transport began to replace freight functions, and the railway shifted focus to passenger service and heritage preservation, celebrating its centenary in 2008 with restored locomotives and infrastructure.
Place Guide
Szalajka Valley Station1908
The main departure and arrival station located in the scenic Szalajka Valley, serving as the gateway to the railway and nearby natural attractions.
Fátyol Waterfall Stop
The terminus station near the famous Fátyol Waterfall, a picturesque cascade considered one of the highlights of the Bükk Mountains.
Forest Museum
A museum showcasing the history of forestry and the railway, including exhibits of historic locomotives, such as parts of the Eleonóra steam engine.
Contact
Phone: (06 36) 355 197
