Bekölce lies on the southeastern edge of the Heves–Borsod Hills in the Bükk region and stretches along both banks of the Vőgyi, also known as Bekölce, Stream. The natural surroundings are rich in plant and wildlife; the rolling hills offer views of the Bükk Plateau. The municipal agricultural program, horses and church history also provide concrete local topics to help plan your trip.
A peaceful location and getting there
Bekölce is considered a quiet settlement and lies 4 to 6 kilometers from the main roads. From Eger, you can reach Bekölce via Route 25; from the Budapest–Salgótarján direction, travel via Routes 21 and 23. Check the details for your chosen route before setting out.
Agriculture and local produce
The municipal agricultural program grows lavender. Surplus vegetables from the program are sold at a farmers’ market in Bekölce. The program also makes elderberry syrup and calendula cream; the cream uses a product from the local beekeeping operation. It is also sold at the local market. Market offerings and sales channels may change. If you are looking for specific products, check what is currently available in advance.
Horses and riding opportunities
Csapó Sportistálló breeds Furioso North Star horses. A riding farm offers trail rides, and riding lessons are available for adults and children. Breeding and riding opportunities appeal to different interests: breeding concerns the horse breed, while trail rides and lessons involve riding. Confirm the availability of riding activities before visiting.
Heves County in a broader context
In the southern part of Heves County, the Hevesi Füves Puszták Landscape Protection Area is located within the wider travel destination of Heves County. It covers 16,114 hectares, was designated in 1993 and reached its present extent after expansions in 2005 and 2008. Also within the wider travel destination of Heves County, the 6.5-kilometer Ilona Valley nature trail follows Ilona Stream past the geological features of the Eastern Mátra Mountains and traces of former ore mining. The Pély-Ludas nature trail in Heves County provides information about the grassland habitats of the Hevesi Plain, their wildlife and the European roller population.
Church and history
The Roman Catholic church, built in 1836 in honor of Mary, stands on the hill above Bekölce. Every year on September 8, the Feast of the Nativity of Mary, a pilgrimage is held for the church’s feast day; specific arrangements may vary. If you are planning a visit around the feast day, check the arrangements in advance. The year 1836 dates the church’s construction, while September 8 marks the recurring feast day.
Written records mention Bekölce in connection with the Bél line as early as 1381. In the first half of the 19th century, the estate belonged to Draskóczy Sámuel; the Lipthay family held property in Bekölce through him. Another grave historical episode concerns the persecution of Jews in 1944: Bekölce’s priest, Dr. Pál Orosz, issued numerous baptismal certificates and hid persecuted people on a remote estate.
Discover more destinations: Mónosbél, Mikófalva, Balaton, Bükkszentmárton, Bélapátfalva, Nagyvisnyó, Szilvásvárad, Bátor.
Go to the broader travel overview: Bélapátfalvai.
