Caves in Great Plain and North offer a diverse range of subterranean experiences, from archaeological sites to unique geological formations. This region, encompassing areas like the Bükk Mountains and the Hór valley, features limestone and rhyolite tuff landscapes conducive to cave development. Visitors can explore historical cave dwellings, natural monuments, and extensive cave systems. The area provides opportunities to discover ancient human habitation sites and remarkable speleothems.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Structure
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Cave
Tip by
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Cave
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more caves in Great Plain and North.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Extensive archaeological work since 2000 has confirmed that people lived in the Szalajka Valley as early as 40,000 years ago. The cave dwellers lived in the Istállós cave and even had contact with other tribes from the valley, some of which lived 500 kilometers away. People also lived in the idyllic valley during the Bronze Age, as evidenced by Celtic relics and an early earthwork. Nevertheless, there were no major settlements within the valley until the Middle Ages, as trade routes were difficult to establish in the heavily forested area. Continuous settlement in the Szalajka Valley began in the 14th century, when people settled in the village of Wárad, now known as Szilvásvárad. The high-quality timber served as a source of urban income even in the Middle Ages, leading to increasing numbers of settlements. Source: https://www.urlaub-ungarn.at/sightseeing/natuerliche-gehenswuerdigkeiten-ungarn/szalajka-tal.html
0
0
Accessing the cave from the parking lot in Újmassa is an easy task, by turning right at the trout hatchery and following the red + sign, the destination can be reached after approximately 1 hour and a 140-meter elevation gain. Going down to the cave can be dangerous in wet weather, because the road is slippery and steep, hiking boots with a tight ankle grip and non-slip soles are highly recommended.
0
0
Here is a large thermal bath, which is located in a grotto. A day swimming break makes sense.
3
0
This is Bükk's only intermittent spring (katatovra): sometimes it works as a source, sometimes as a sink.
0
0
Diabáz Cave, located in the Bükki National Park, is the fifth deepest cave in the country (161 m) and is highly protected. The excavated length of the gradually deepening system divided by shafts is close to 1 km. It is one of the most dangerous underground caves in Hungary. A permit, appropriate climbing skills and equipment are required to enter.
0
0
Suba-lyuk prehistoric man’s cave. A must see in the Hór valley. Whilst the walk up to the cave is short, it’s also steep and rocky.
0
0
Among the most popular caves in the region, visitors frequently highlight Istállós-kő Cave, known for its significant archaeological finds from the Paleolithic era. Another favorite is Baradla Cave Red Lake Entrance, which offers a 2.3 km long, accessible cave trail with electric lighting. Suba-lyuk Cave is also highly regarded as a natural monument and historical site.
Yes, the region offers options suitable for families. Baradla Cave Red Lake Entrance is particularly family-friendly, featuring a well-lit trail with walkways and bridges, making it accessible for all ages. Additionally, the Miskolctapolca Thermal Bath, located in a grotto, provides a unique family-friendly experience.
The caves in Great Plain and North are rich in history and archaeology. Istállós-kő Cave is one of Hungary's most protected prehistoric caves, famous for Paleolithic stone tools and bone spear points. Suba-lyuk Cave is another significant prehistoric man’s cave in the Hór valley. The Kisamerika Cave Dwellings offer a glimpse into historical folk architecture, where homes were carved into rhyolite tuff.
Yes, the region's limestone and rhyolite tuff landscapes contribute to diverse cave formations. While specific details on formations like boxwork or helictites are not universally documented for all caves here, the extensive systems are known for various speleothems. For example, Baradla Cave is part of a large system with impressive natural features.
The Great Plain and North region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, with options ranging from moderate to difficult, such as loops around Kékestető and Miskolc-Gömöri. There are also beautiful waterfall hikes, including trails near Szalajkavölgy and Lillafüred. For runners, the region provides diverse running trails around areas like Baja and Tiszafüred.
For those seeking more challenging experiences, caves like Diabáz Cave and Udvar-kő Cave (Dante's Inferno) are categorized as challenging natural monuments, offering more strenuous exploration. The walk up to Suba-lyuk Cave is also described as steep and rocky, providing a rewarding climb.
Beyond traditional cave tours, the region features unique attractions like the Miskolctapolca Thermal Bath, which is a large thermal bath located within a grotto, offering a relaxing experience. The Kisamerika Cave Dwellings provide a fascinating historical insight into homes carved directly into the mountainside.
Yes, the region has religious sites connected to caves. The Szentkút Basilica and Hermit Caves are a notable example, combining religious architecture with historical cave dwellings. Additionally, the Jesus Heart Rock Chapel in Miskolctapolca is a religious building with cave elements.
Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences offered by the caves. Many enjoy the archaeological significance of sites like Istállós-kő Cave, while others value the accessibility and well-maintained trails of Baradla Cave Red Lake Entrance. The unique blend of natural beauty, history, and opportunities for both easy exploration and challenging adventures makes the region's caves highly appealing.
Yes, the region includes sinkhole caves. For example, the Koporsós Sinkhole Cave is listed as a natural monument, offering another type of geological feature for exploration.


Discover more caves in Great Plain and North region by region:
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones in Great Plain and North: