Szarvas Arboretum
Békés
Szarvas Arboretum, commonly known as Pepi-kert, is a vast and nationally protected botanical garden located along a backwater of the Hármas-Körös River in Szarvas, Hungary. Spanning 82 hectares with 65 accessible to visitors, it hosts one of the country's richest living tree collections, including century-old bald cypresses and giant sequoias. The arboretum comprises five main tree collections: the Pepikert, Clonal Plantation and Nursery, Park Forest, Mitrowssky Garden, and the Kitchen Garden. Established by the Bolza family in the late 18th and 19th centuries, the arboretum was carefully designed to protect exotic and native tree species from harsh winds and climate extremes, creating a favorable microclimate that has allowed many foreign species from America, Africa, Asia, and other regions to acclimatize successfully. Today, it supports a diverse ecosystem with over 1,600 tree and shrub species, 250 herbaceous plants, 211 mushroom species, 415 insect species, and about 150 bird species, including colorful Indian blue peafowls. Visitors can enjoy walking or cycling tours, eco-trails, a medicinal herb garden, a giant chessboard, and various exhibitions. Managed by the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the arboretum is not only a botanical treasure but also a natural sanctuary offering year-round experiences and educational opportunities.
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Tip: The arboretum is open year-round, with the best visits during spring and autumn for vibrant foliage and blooming plants. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance online to avoid queues, especially during weekends and holidays. Guided tours are available both on foot and by bicycle, enhancing the educational experience. Visitors can explore themed trails such as the Eco-Game Park, Meditation Area, and various nature paths. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. The site also hosts exhibitions and events, so checking the official website for the latest programs is advisable.
Interesting facts
- •The arboretum contains century-old bald cypresses and giant sequoias, some over 150 years old.
- •It hosts approximately 1,600 species of trees and shrubs, making it Hungary's largest living tree collection.
- •The arboretum supports a rich biodiversity including 150 bird species and 415 insect species.
- •Indian blue peafowls, with over 40 colorful individuals, are a distinctive feature of the arboretum.
- •The site includes a Mini Hungary model park established in 2013, showcasing scaled landmarks of Hungary.
History
The Szarvas Arboretum's origins trace back to the Bolza family, an Italian-descended noble family who acquired land in Szarvas in 1798.
Bolza József and his wife Countess Anna Batthyány began planting the Anna Grove and imported the first giant sequoias and fern trees from imperial estates in Vienna.
The arboretum's layout developed further in the late 19th century, especially after the regulation of the Hármas-Körös River, which ended frequent flooding and allowed planting in lower areas.
Bolza Pál, continuing his brother's work, designed the protective forest belts around the garden to shelter exotic species from harsh winds, creating a unique microclimate.
In 1943, the area was declared a protected natural reserve under state management.
Post-nationalization, it passed through various institutional hands, including the Horticultural and Food Industry University and later the Budapest Corvinus University’s Landscape Architecture Faculty.
Currently, it is maintained by the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, preserving its status as one of Hungary's most significant arboretums.
Place Guide
Pepikert (Main Arboretum Area)
The central part of the arboretum featuring a diverse collection of exotic and native trees, including rare species like bald cypresses and giant sequoias. Visitors can stroll along the Bolza Mariette promenade, a 2,500-meter path surrounded by mature trees and scenic views.
Mitrowssky Garden
A specialized garden section named after a notable contributor, featuring unique plant species and landscaped areas designed for botanical study and enjoyment.
Clonal Plantation and Nursery
This area serves as a propagation and research center for various tree species, supporting conservation and educational activities within the arboretum.
Kitchen Garden (Konyhakert)
A thematic garden showcasing around 100 species of medicinal herbs, offering visitors insight into traditional and modern herbal uses.
Eco-Game Park and Nature Trails
Interactive outdoor spaces including an eco-playground, a giant chessboard, and themed nature trails such as the Catfish Trail and Magic Cottage, designed to engage visitors of all ages with nature and environmental education.
Contact
Phone: (06 66) 312 344
