This tour through Hungary may be an unexpectedly beautiful ride. The winding roads through the Bükk National Park and mountain range show you beautiful views, unique natural phenomena and cultural specialities.

The Bükk Mountains are part of the Carpathians, with an average height of 900 meters. This makes the mountain range the highest in Hungary. The mountain range consists of karst rock, so there are many caves in the national park. Most of them can also be visited, such as the István cave in Lillafüred. Since the tour starts and ends in Lillafüred, you have a great opportunity to visit these caves; and possibly also take a ride on the narrow-gauge railway, which used to transport goods to and from the caves in the past. You can also take a number of beautiful walks through the mountains from this resort. By the way, the locals will advise you not to walk in the dark or at dusk: the Hungarian yeti might cross your path at this late hour.

Today you drive clockwise through the Bükk Mountains. You leave towards the South and see the entrance to the István cave and the narrow-gauge railway from the road. Soon the route needs all your attention, because the first climb is going up. One corner follows another and it is a real pleasure. Once back down in the valley you enter the town of Eger.

The town of Eger dates back to the 10th century and has a rich history. This is reflected in the diversity of buildings in the city. You will find, among other things, the northernmost minaret from the Ottoman era, baroque buildings, a Gothic palace and a fortress from the 13th century to defend against the Mongol invasion. A nice place to let the engines rest from all the bends and to take a walk on foot. You can get lost in the narrow streets and take a break on one of the terraces on the squares in the city center.

After giving your trusty steed a short and well-deserved rest, it's time to think about your own well-being. A motorcycle ride does wonders for your mental well-being, but the salt hill in Egerszalók does wonders for your physical health. In this village you will find a unique natural phenomenon: a thermal spring, which rises deep underground and emerges via a limestone hill. Because the warm water is rich in minerals, it builds up a special white formation. Only in Turkey (Pamukkale) and the US (Yellowstone National Park) you have a comparable natural phenomenon.
The sulphur-rich water has come to be known as medicinal. As a result, you will find a large wellness resort right next to the formation.
Since you are not yet half way through the route, there is probably little time today to actually enjoy the healing power of the water. Maybe something for another day?

The ride continues west. On a narrow road through the woods, you swing towards Sirok. This village is located at the foot of a steep hill. On top of that hill is the ruin of Sirok's castle. This fortress dates back to the 7th century and has been expanded over the years. In the end it served to guard the border of the municipality of Eger. The Ottomans also used this fortress. In 1713 the fortress was destroyed and lost its value. Nowadays you can visit the ruins and walk around the various rooms, partly carved into the rock. If you want to visit the fortress, take into account a brisk walk. It takes about 20 minutes to climb the steep stairs up the hill.

The good thing about such a tough walk is that you often get hungry. Fortunately, you can have a delicious lunch in Parádsasvár a number of villages further on. You can even choose. At the beginning of the village you have a simple restaurant. In the village itself you can have lunch at the St. Hubertus restaurant or on a level in the noble castle Károlyi. This castle was built in 1881 and is now a 5-star hotel with a luxurious restaurant.

The second part of the route is mainly enjoyment. The roads wind along and over the rolling hills. You regularly follow a river to get to the next village.

Along the way you also have the chance to think about your spiritual well-being. Just after the village of Tar you will find a Buddhist center. As a visitor you are free to look around the Stupa and a memorial temple. They also have a charming tea house here where you can buy something to eat or drink in addition to souvenirs.

Completely zen and satisfied you can start the last part of your route. Here too, winding roads through forests and over hills predominate. You can refuel in Ózd so that you arrive in Lillafüred with an almost full tank.