Dent, Bob: Budapest for Children - Our Budapest (Budapest, 1992)
13. Getting some Fresh Air - The Buda Hills
94 GETTING SOMÉ FRESH AIR points throughout the park for observing the animals undisturbed. This is a place you can spend some time just walking and looking. Paths involving a 3.5 km and a 5 km walk are clearly marked, and there is a look-out tower [kilátó], not difficult to climb, which gives an excellent view of the surrounding hills and countryside. To the right past the entrance are large cages with ducks, hens, swans, etc. Just outside are lots of wooden seats and tables for picnicking, and there is a café nearby, too. Open all year round from dawn to dusk. Small entrance fee for all, though minimal for children. No. 22 bus from Moszkva tér takes you right there —the express “red” 22 is a bit quicker. Alight just on the boundary of Budakeszi and take the road which runs away from the bus stop. Follow the path signs for “Vadaspark”. Sas Hill [Sas-hegy] This is a very special hill to the east of Gellért Hill. Due to its dolomite rock formations, its rare plant-life and birds, the hill is a protected area. Access is by conducted group and only at weekends (and currently only from 1 April to 15 June and 1 Sep to 15 Oct). Perhaps for older children with a special interest in nature studies it may be worth making enquiries — 129-7221 or 188- 9599. Organised walks A sure way of not getting lost, a way of seeing the parts most tourists miss and a way of meeting Hungarians! Guided walking tours through the hills are organised throughout the year on different days of the week by the Budapesti Természetbarát Sportszövetség (a nature- lovers and ramblers association). There is a series of walks, usually every Saturday, which is specifically aimed at young people and families with small children. All are welcome and you can just turn up on the day. Information about meeting points, distances, etc. is often given in “Pesti Műsor” and can also be obtained on 117-9466 or at the association’s office, 62-64 Váci u., Bp. V.
