What does fresh bread have to do with a peaceful little lake? At first, it may seem like nothing. But for centuries, mills across Europe used millstones carved from a quiet hillside in the Zemplén Mountains, near Sárospatak. This special volcanic stone was once quarried there. When quarrying stopped, nature took over. Water filled the old quarry pit, creating one of Hungary’s most unique natural attractions: the Megyer Hill Tarn.
The lake is a special place shaped by both human work and nature. For a long time, it was known mainly by locals and hikers. Visitors could enjoy the view, but reaching the edge of the quarry was not always easy or safe. Sárospatak’s municipality saw the site’s tourism potential and, with support from the European Union, developed the area into a real visitor attraction where families can spend an entire day. The project supports a more sustainable form of tourism. By encouraging visitors to stay longer, it helps local businesses, strengthens the area’s tourism offer, and improves the reputation of the region. So what changed?
First, access to the Tarn was improved. Roads and paths were upgraded, new cycling connections were created, and walking routes became safer and more organised. Information boards and visitor points now help guests learn more about the area.
About 900 metres from the lake is Ciróka Rest Park, the last point visitors can reach by car. It offers a small canteen, a rest area, and an outdoor community space. From here, visitors continue on foot to the Tarn.
Near the lake, a small hand-mill workshop connects visitors to the site’s past. Here, they can see old household millstones donated by local residents, try different model mills, buy souvenirs, and rent climbing equipment.
One of the most exciting parts of the development is the via ferrata route system. These secured climbing routes on the steep rock walls allow visitors to experience the Tarn from a completely new perspective. There are easier and more challenging routes, so the former quarry has become not only a beautiful viewpoint, but also an adventure destination.
A new lookout tower was also built on the top of Megyer Hill. The 18-metre-high tower rises above the treetops and offers a wonderful panorama of the Bodrogköz and Zemplén landscapes. In clear weather, visitors can even see distant mountain ranges, while the lake shines below among the surrounding cliffs.
The development was designed with respect for nature. Rest areas, benches, waste bins, and landscape-friendly solutions help protect the site’s special character, even as more visitors arrive.
Before visiting, it is worth checking the opening times of the via ferrata routes. At certain times of the year, nature conservation comes first. When the rare and protected eagle owl is nesting on the cliffs, some climbing sections are closed.
Millstones, water, wildlife, climbing routes, and beautiful views — together, they make Megyer Hill Tarn a truly exceptional place.
The development was implemented from EU funding in the project TOP-1.2.1-15-BO1-2016-00033 under the Territorial and Settlement Development Operational Programme.
Find out more about the project in the Project Finder:Details
