Naturpark Geschriebenstein-Írottkő
Burgenland
Naturpark Geschriebenstein-Írottkő is a transboundary nature park located between Austria's Burgenland and Hungary's Vas County, encompassing the Kőszeg Mountains. The park centers around the Geschriebenstein (Írottkő) mountain, which at 884 meters is the highest point in Burgenland and western Hungary. Established in 1996 on the Austrian side with subsequent Hungarian cooperation supported by EU PHARE funds, the park covers approximately 8,500 hectares in Austria and 27,000 hectares in Hungary. It offers around 500 kilometers of marked hiking trails that visitors can freely explore thanks to the Schengen Agreement. The park features diverse attractions including themed trails such as a mushroom educational path and a "stream-flower-power" park. The Faludital valley includes a small bathing pond created by damming the Rechnitzbach stream, originating near Geschriebenstein. Historical sites like an old charcoal kiln in Oberkohlstätten recall traditional forest crafts. Several springs such as the Hörmannsquelle and Kiszsidány spring enrich the Hungarian side, while the Siebenbründl spring near the Austrian border is adorned with plaques honoring the seven Hungarian tribal leaders. The forest school "Steirerhäuser" commemorates foresters brought from Styria during Maria Theresa's reign. The summit features a 1913 observation tower situated directly on the Austria-Hungary border, symbolizing the region's shared natural and cultural heritage.
Plan your trip to Austria with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit Naturpark Geschriebenstein-Írottkő is during late spring to early autumn when the extensive hiking trails and themed paths are most accessible. Visitors should consider acquiring maps or guides for the 500 km of trails to fully explore the park’s natural and cultural highlights. Since the park spans two countries, crossing the border is seamless under the Schengen Agreement, allowing for a rich cross-border hiking experience. No formalities are required. Some trails feature educational signage, so guided tours or informational brochures can enhance the visit. Visitors interested in bathing can enjoy the small pond in Faludital. Early booking is recommended for any guided activities or forest school visits. Discounts may be available for groups or educational tours.
Interesting facts
- •The summit of Geschriebenstein (Írottkő) mountain features an observation tower built in 1913 that stands exactly on the Austria-Hungary border.
- •The park encompasses about 35,500 hectares, with approximately 8,500 hectares in Austria and 27,000 hectares in Hungary.
- •There are roughly 500 kilometers of hiking trails within the park, allowing extensive exploration across both countries.
- •The Siebenbründl spring near the Austrian border is decorated with plaques commemorating the seven Hungarian tribal leaders Álmos, Előd, Ond, Kond, Tas, Huba, and Töhötöm.
- •The forest school "Steirerhäuser" honors foresters brought from Styria to Hungary during the reign of Maria Theresa.
History
The Naturpark Geschriebenstein-Írottkő was first established in 1996 on the Austrian side of the border, followed shortly by the creation of the Hungarian part as a project supported by EU PHARE funds.
The park is named after the Geschriebenstein (Írottkő) mountain, which has historically marked the border between Austria and Hungary.
The mountain's summit features a border observation tower built in 1913.
After the Treaty of Saint-Germain in 1919 and the Treaty of Trianon in 1920, the western part of Hungary, including the mountain area, became part of Austria's Burgenland.
Since Hungary joined the Schengen Agreement in 2007, the border within the park can be crossed freely without formalities, enhancing cross-border cooperation and tourism.
Place Guide
Observation Tower on Geschriebenstein Summit1913
A historic observation tower built in 1913 located at the mountain peak, situated directly on the Austria-Hungary border. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding Kőszeg Mountains and symbolizes the cross-border connection of the region.
Themed Hiking Trails
The park features numerous themed trails including a mushroom educational path and a "stream-flower-power" park, providing visitors with educational and immersive nature experiences.
Faludital Bathing Pond1964
A small bathing pond created in 1964 by damming the Rechnitzbach stream in the Faludital valley, offering a refreshing spot for visitors during warmer months.
Siebenbründl Spring1896
Located near the Austrian border, this spring is surrounded by small stone plaques commemorating the seven Hungarian tribal leaders who played a role in early Hungarian history.
Forest School "Steirerhäuser"
An educational site dedicated to the foresters who were brought from Styria to Hungary under Maria Theresa’s reign, highlighting traditional forestry practices in the region.
