Ever heard of a hill that shares its space between two districts? Kecskehegy does just that. It sits right on the border of Budapest’s II and III districts. This unique location is part of the Budai Landscape Protection Area.
Kecskehegy stands 384 meters above sea level. It forms part of the inner range of the Hármashatár-hegy. The hill mainly consists of Upper Triassic dolomite. Kecskehegy connects to Felső- and Alsó-Kecske-hegy.
On the western side Kecskehegy slopes steeply. Towards the east it gently descends toward Szépvölgy. Mixed forest covers the surface.
Along its side runs the Gluck Frigyes promenade. This path got its name from the city politician Gluck Frigyes. He was known as a friend of Budapest. Thanks to him, the János-hegyi Erzsébet Lookout Tower and the Árpád Lookout Tower were built. The path also touches the Budapest section of the National Blue Trail.
The most famous formation on Kecskehegy is the Lion Rock. Its distinctive shape gives it its name. Human hands also shaped it. The rock suffered damage during World War II from a bomb. Yet, its characteristic form remains visible. Some say the Lion Rock was once part of King Matthias’s game reserve.
Kecskehegy is home to several caves. Among the most significant are the Lion Cave and Lehelős-lyuk. Also worth mentioning are the Northern Cavity of the Lion Rock and the Kecske-hegyi crevice. Visiting the latter two requires permission from the Duna-Ipoly National Park. All the caves are protected.
At the meeting point of Gluck Frigyes Road and Kecskehegyi Road, you’ll find Határ-nyereg. From here, many routes branch out for further exploration. A recommended circular tour includes Apáthy Rock, Árpád Lookout Tower, and Kecskehegy.
If you descend westward from Kecskehegy. Or head from the Kecske-hegyi parking lot along Szépvölgyi Road, you can reach the tansövény. It’s named after the large-headed crested dog’s tail. Along the way, you will find a playground, a large meadow, and a shelter from the rain.
So, next time you are seeking an escape, remember Kecskehegy. It offers not only natural beauty but also a slice of Budapest’s history.