Törpevasút

Journey back to 1948. Imagine young pioneers, their faces alight with excitement, embarking on a grand adventure. This adventure wasn’t a hike through the Buda Hills, but something far more unique: the construction of the Törpevasút, or Children’s Railway. The Hungarian State Railways (MÁV) envisioned a railway run by children, a testament to youthful enthusiasm and ingenuity. Several locations were considered, but the picturesque Buda Hills ultimately won. The first section of the Törpevasút, from Széchenyi-hegy to Virágvölgy, opened in July 1948. The final stretch to Hűvösvölgy was completed in 1950. The Törpevasút quickly became a beloved attraction. It offered a scenic journey through the hills, with children taking on various roles, from ticket inspectors to signal operators, all under adult supervision. Only the train driver remained an adult role. The Törpevasút isn’t just a fun ride. It’s a hands-on learning experience for children, fostering responsibility, teamwork, and a love for railways. This unique railway has even earned a Guinness World Record as the longest railway line operated by children. The Törpevasút faced a brief closure during the 1956 Hungarian Revolution but reopened in 1957. Today, the Törpevasút continues to delight visitors. It offers a charming blend of nostalgia and youthful energy. As you ride the Törpevasút, remember the vision of those pioneers. They created something truly special, a railway where children’s dreams take flight amidst the scenic beauty of the Buda Hills.