The idea was ultimately a simple one: to give visitors more reasons to stay in Salgótarján rather than simply pass through. The renewed visitor area in Eresztvény adds another chapter to that story — one filled with birdsong.
For many decades, Salgótarján’s history was shaped by coal and industry. Mining and heavy industry defined the city’s economy, everyday life and appearance. After the political transition of the early 1990s, however, factories and industrial plants closed one after another. Economic decline was followed by unemployment and the departure of many young people, leaving the city in need of new opportunities.
Tourism became one possible way forward — and it still holds considerable potential today. Salgótarján is surrounded by a remarkable natural landscape that offers a strong foundation for long-term tourism. The Karancs–Medves region is rich in forests, hills, rock formations, castles and nature trails. Salgó Castle, Somoskő Castle, Boszorkány-kő, the basalt quarries of the Medves Plateau, Petőfi Hut and the Karancs lookout tower are all attractive destinations in their own right. Local decision-makers believed that adding smaller but fresh and interesting attractions to these established sights could encourage visitors to stay for more than just a few hours — perhaps even for several days.
This is where Eresztvény, one of Salgótarján’s forested areas, comes into the picture. It was once a popular destination for day trips and outdoor recreation, but over time it gradually fell into decline. Vegetation took over the former ski slope, while the old tourist lodge lost the community role it once had. Although smaller improvements have been made in recent years, the area had still not fully regained its former appeal.
The latest project marked another step in that process, focusing on the Bird Park in Eresztvény. The park was completely renovated and given new functions, with the aim of creating a friendly, playful and nature-focused destination.
The existing information boards were refurbished, while new colourful and interactive panels were installed alongside them. Designed to be engaging even for younger visitors, they feature rotating and fold-out elements that make learning about nature more playful. As a result, a walk through the forest can also become an entertaining way to discover more about the surrounding wildlife.
The bird boxes were repaired and new ones were installed as well. The vegetation was also renewed, with plants selected to provide birds with shelter, nesting opportunities and food. The park received a new entrance gate, while steps and retaining walls were renovated. Rain shelters, benches, tables and waste bins now make visits more comfortable.
The renewed Bird Park is not intended to stand alone, but to become one stop along the area’s wider network of hiking routes. The hope is that more and more birds will find shelter and a home here — while bears will remain rather less frequent visitors. Bears occasionally wander across the border from neighbouring Slovakia into the surrounding area.
That, in its own way, is also a reminder of just how close to nature this part of Nógrád really is. Vast forests, meadows, hills and rock formations make the region an enjoyable destination even for visitors travelling from further afield. The renewed Bird Park adds another small but charming attraction to this rich natural landscape.
The development was implemented from EU funding in the project TOP-1.4.1-19-BA1-2019-00005 under the Territorial and Settlement Development Operational Programme.
Find out more about the project in the Project Finder: Details
