Matra wine region

Travel Guide to Matra Wine Region

Continental wines from the southern slopes of the Matra Mountains     

Matra is the second largest wine region in Hungary and covers a large area that includes the Matra Mountains, the eastern foothills of Borzsony, Vac, Vereseghyaz and part of Budapest. The vineyards of the region extend from Hatvan to Domosz through the towns and villages of the Heves County.

The first mention of the vineyards of Matra is made in the 13^th century when there was much attention paid to the vines of the Gyongyos area. From the 15^th century, the wines began to gain a good reputation and it was decided that the local wines could be sold only as Gyongyosi if after inspection it reached the necessary quality levels.

The total wine production area of the Matra region is 32 497 ha, of which 24 261 is planted with 1^st class grapes.

The climate of the region is temperate continental, and the Matra Mountains protect the vines from the north winds. The spring arrives late in the region and the climate remains relatively dry throughout the year. The little rain that does fall, comes in the early summer months fro May to June.

Across the region the soils are incredibly diverse and include chemozen brown forest soil, erubase clay, back nyirok, luvisol forest soil, loess, andesite, rhyolite tuff and humus. The soils are mostly low in lime content.

The aromatic wines of the Matra region

The Matra wine region produces some of the most aromatic wines in Hungary. These wines have a wonderful level of acidity which makes them both complex and elegant.

The white grape varietals of Matra are the most widely planted. These grapes have a good balance, a lean body and are rich in aromatics. The most full-bodied wines of the region are prodced from Olaszrizling followed by Pinot Gris, Chardonnay and Muscat. Aromatic wines are also made from Irsai Oliver, Traminer and Harslevelu.

By far the most notable wine of the region is the Kekfrankos, but excellent wines are also made from Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc.

Matra Wine Region Map

You can also check out our interactive map of the Matra Wine Region to discover wineries with open cellar doors.

Read more about Wineries in Matra to visit.

Where to go when visiting Matra  

Oxygen Adrenaline Park - Feel the adrenaline pump through your veins

The Oxygen Adrenaline Park is an adventure park located in the Matra Region. The park is situated on 16 hectares of land and provides entertainment for visitors of all ages. The highlights of the park include the bob courses that are open in the winter and the summer, quad biking, a suspension bridge and canopy, a 360-degree swing, an adventure park, a climbing wall, playgrounds, and a range of restaurants and cafes.

The Paloc Privatr Ethnographic Collection - The Paloc doll exhibition

The The Paloc Privatr Ethnographic Collection is a Paloc doll exhibition that is located in the building of a former primary school in Matrafured. The exhibition is the work of Rita Juhasz Lovasz, a national costume artist and consist of 29 Paloc dolls dressed in both occasional and casual clothes. The pieces in the collection come from over 100 different locations across Hungary and are made using some of the country’s most unique fabrics and textiles.

Galya – Kilato - The Galya Lookout Tower     

The Galya Lookout Tower is a lookout tower located at one of the peaks of the Galya Rood on the 955m high Peter Hill. This is the tallest lookout tower in Hungary and was built specifically for this purpose. The roof terrace of the tower offers visitors 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding areas. The building is open to visitors daily and there is also limited accommodation on offer inside the tower itself.

The natural attractions in Matra   

The landscape of the Matra region is dominated by the Matra Mountains. This mountain range provides the perfect environment for nature lovers to enjoy a range of activities including hiking, walking, and biking. This is by far one of the most beautiful wine regions in Hungary and a pleasure for all who visit.

Ilona Valley Waterfall - The most beautiful waterfall in Hungary

The Ilona Valley Waterfall is located in the Bukk National Park and is considered as the most beautiful waterfall in Hungary. To access the waterfall, there is a 10.6 km moderate walk near Heves. The trail is perfect for hiking, walking and bird watching.

Kekes Mountain -  Hungary’s highest mountain

Kekes is Hungary’s highest mountain which stands at 1 014 meters above sea level. It is the third most popular tourist attraction in Hungary. The mountain is most popular for hiking, walking and road cycling. Visitors to the mountain can also spend time visiting the Pauline Monastery of Kekes.

Agasvar Mountain - Relax in a Hungarian mountain hut

Agasvar Mountain is a mountain peak in the Matra region that has an elevation of 2 585 feet. The most popular thing to do at Agasvar Mountain is to spend time relaxing in one of the wonderful mountain huts. These huts are the perfect place to rejuvenate and enjoy nature with their wonderful views. The huts are located inside a highly protected part of the Agasvar Mountain and moto vehicles are prohibited making them perfect for hikers and walkers.

The delicious cuisine of the Matra Region        

The location of the Matra region in the mountains means that the local cuisine is packed with the freshest of local ingredients that come straight from the earth. The region offers w range of dining experiences for visitors that offer something for every palate.

Rakott Krumpli - Hungarian layered potatoes

Rakott Krumpli is a traditional dish is layered potatoes. The dish is made by boiling potatoes along with eggs in their shells. Once cooked, the eggs and potatoes are cut into thin slices. The potatoes and eggs are layered in a dish with sausage slices, sour cream and salt and baked in an oven for a delicious dinner meal.

Pecsenye - Traditional Sarkadi Steak

Pecsenye is a traditional pork steak that is popular in the Matra region. The sliced pork steak is cooked with butter, mushrooms, milks and flour. Once this is ready, the mixture is sprinkled with cheese and baked into the oven until golden brown. This is a delicious meal that is both rich and packed with flavour.

Grizgaluska Leves - Hungarian Boiled Semolina Dumplings

Grizgaluska Leves are traditional Hungarian boiled dumplings made with semolina that are eaten in a vegetable soup. The soup in which the dumplings are eaten s made with beets, parsley, celery and onions. The dumplings are added to the soup raw and cook in the hot soup for 5-10 minutes before they are ready to be enjoyed.

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