To wander along any of the routes known as the Path of the Oaks is to experience the wild, picturesque, and romantic landscapes of southern Zalaegerszeg especially the Alsóerdő (Lower Forest). Classified simultaneously as a recreational-, a panoramic forest, and a woodland for leisurely walks, this area weaves together the city’s past and present: its former landmarks from the 14th century onward appear before us, while its contemporary attractions reveal themselves along the way.
The Path of the Oaks network is embraced by “mountains” whose names speak for themselves, though they are considered only hills: Egerszeg Hill, Chapel Hill, Gógán Hill, Becsali Hill, Jánka Hill, Luka Hill, and Vakaros Hill. Nature displays its full splendour here: educational trails, springs, gardens, valleys, and lookout towers all await those who explore the region. In addition to traditional hiking, opportunities abound for active recreation: there is a bike park, a sports and adventure park, and an outdoor fitness trail nearby.
Comprising three hiking routes, the network traverses an area that became Hungary’s second established park forest after the Buda Hills. It was created in 2023 by the Municipality of Zalaegerszeg, with two starting points: one at the entrance of the Azalea Valley, the other by the TV Tower.
Green Trail
The shortest 7.5 km long route resembles a butterfly when viewed from above. Among its natural treasures is the Aranyoslapi Spring, one of the city’s most beloved excursion destinations. In summer, visitors may harvest lavender at the Lower Forest Lavender Garden. The Bird Forest educational trail can be found at the starting point , and next to it the Alsóerdő Sports and Adventure Park offers thrills for lovers of active recreation. An information board recalls the once-famous Mary Picture Tree, a sign of the forest’s long-known significance as a pilgrimage site. Beginners will find this route manageable, with an elevation gain of only 170 metres.
Blue Trail
Nearly a kilometre longer, the second route stretches 8.3 km and features a steeper elevation gain of 230 metres and is recommended for more experienced hikers. Passing the Mary Picture Tree and crossing the Azalea Valley, the path evokes the beginnings of Hungarian oil production and the story of “the black gold” of Zala.
Red Trail
The longest of the three trails ventures the farthest from the Lower Forest with a 290-meter elevation gain. One discovers the area’s beauty while walking among wooded ridges, green meadows, and homes scattered across the hilltops. The expression of “a breathtaking panorama” becomes entirely literal at the chapel of Egerszeg Hill and at the Bazita TV Tower.
Along all three trails, informative signs provide insights into the flora and fauna, as well as the history of the region. We learn, among other things, why the green frog often “laughs” here, where the pedunculate oak dominates and where a sledding hill was made nearly a century ago, how the Azalea Valley became one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Zala, and where the TV Tower’s predecessor, the Bődy lookout tower once stood.
Just like the Path of the Oaks, the districts of Csács, Bozsok, and Botfa also offer three hiking trails each. Their names are equally evocative: the Horhosok Trail meaning ravines leads through vineyards and forested hollow roads, while the Path of the Ferns takes hikers all the way to the highest point of Zalaegerszeg, the Christmas Hill.
