Hosszúerdő-hegyi-rókalyuk

Deep within the Buda Hills, a secret whispers from the earth. This is the Hosszúerdő-hegyi-rókalyuk, a cave entrance shrouded in mystery. Hosszúerdő-hegyi-rókalyuk translates to “Long Forest Mountain Foxhole.” It’s a small, unassuming opening, easily missed by the casual observer. But for those who seek it out, Hosszúerdő-hegyi-rókalyuk offers a glimpse into the hidden world beneath our feet. Located near Máriaremete, this cave lies within the Duna-Ipoly National Park, a protected area in the Buda Hills. The entrance is nestled in a quarry wall, almost concealed among the fragmented rocks. Imagine yourself standing before it. The largest possible enclosed cross-section of the Hosszúerdő-hegyi-rókalyuk’s entrance is surprisingly large. But the actual entrance you must crawl through is a mere 50 by 60 centimeters. It requires a bit of a squeeze to enter. Inside, the Hosszúerdő-hegyi-rókalyuk stretches a mere 3.5 meters long and 1.5 meters high. Its current size is due to the removal of the clay fill. This fill still coats the floor and, towards the end of the passage, almost completely fills the cross-section. The excavated material lies piled outside, forming a path. Gazda Attila surveyed Hosszúerdő-hegyi-rókalyuk in 2004. He created maps, including a plan, longitudinal section, and cross-section. His survey revealed a simple, single-level cave with a horizontal floor and a tunnel-like cross-section. Interestingly, the official record lists Nagykovácsi (Pest County) as its location, even though it lies within Budapest’s II. district. This discrepancy adds another layer of intrigue to the Hosszúerdő-hegyi-rókalyuk’s story. Formed by corrosion within Upper Triassic Dachstein limestone, this small cave offers a unique experience. No special permit is needed to explore Hosszúerdő-hegyi-rókalyuk. It is easily accessible and can be explored in street clothes. However, be prepared to crawl. Hosszúerdő-hegyi-rókalyuk is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, a small adventure in the heart of Budapest.