Guardians of the Kerka Valley

Route: Muraszemenye – Kerkaszentkirály – Dobri – Tormafölde – Szécsisziget Lookout Tower

 

Discover the Charm of the Kerka Valley Villages and the Stunning Panorama of the Szécsisziget Hills

This cycling route connects some of the most spectacular landscapes where the Mura region meets the Kerka Valley. Leaving behind the wild beauty of the Mura River at Muraszemenye, you’ll enjoy an easy ride along flat cycling paths following the Kerka River. Near Tormafölde, the landscape begins to change as the plains give way to the rolling hills of Zala.

Your destination is the Szécsisziget Lookout Tower, where breathtaking panoramic views reward your efforts and reveal the landscape you’ve explored throughout the day.

Muraszemenye, Kerkaszentkirály and Dobri – Riding Along the River

The tour begins in the riverside village of Muraszemenye before heading north along the Kerka River.

This section is all about peace and tranquillity. Between Kerkaszentkirály and Dobri, the fresh country air, riverside gallery forests and peaceful oxbow branches of the Kerka create one of the most relaxing cycling experiences in the region.

Tormafölde – Where Nature Meets History

Leaving the flat river landscape behind, you arrive in Tormafölde.

Near the village rises the well-known Szentvégh Hill, but before beginning the gentle climb, take a moment to appreciate the surrounding farmland and the authentic rhythm of rural life.

Here the scenery changes noticeably as riverside meadows gradually give way to vineyards, wooded hillsides and the characteristic rolling landscape of Zala.

Szécsisziget and the Lookout Tower – The Highlight of the Tour

The final section leads towards Szécsisziget, one of the area’s most historically significant villages.

From here, the route climbs gently to the Szécsisziget Lookout Tower. The short ascent is richly rewarded by magnificent panoramic views across the entire Kerka Valley. On clear days you can see deep into neighbouring Slovenia, while directly below lies the famous Water Buffalo Reserve, where these impressive animals graze peacefully across the wetlands.

Don’t Miss

• Kerkaszentkirály Riverside Rest Area – Where the Kerka River and the cycling route come closest together.
• Dobri Bridge – A classic photo stop surrounded by unspoilt riverside nature.
• Andrássy–Szapáry Castle, Szécsisziget – A beautiful Baroque landmark nestled at the foot of the hills.
• Szécsisziget Water Buffalo Reserve – Observe the “guardians” of Szécsisziget from the lookout tower or along the nature trail.
• Szécsisziget Lookout Tower – The perfect place to capture unforgettable panoramic photographs of your journey.

Route Information & Tips

Distance: Approximately 13.8 km (one way)

Duration: Around 2 hours at a comfortable pace.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate – mostly flat, with one gentle climb to the lookout tower at the end.

Route Surface: Safe cycle paths and quiet country roads.

Recommended Bicycle: Trekking bike, mountain bike (MTB) or e-bike.