Bakony

The most important part of the Transdanubian Central Range is the Bakony, also called Bakony Forest. It extends north of Lake Balaton to the Little Plain (Kisaföld) and as far as the Vértes Hills, from which it is separated by the Mórer Valley. Both the Balaton Uplands running parallel to the north bank of Lake Balaton and the adjoining Keszthely Hills are part of the Bakony.

The highest point of this wooded area of 4000sq.km (1544sq.mi.) is Koris, 704m (2309ft) high, close to the town of Zirc. The most valuable mineral in the Bakony Forest is bauxite. Mountains, woods and valleys add to the charm of the region as do numerous historical monuments in both the smaller and larger towns. The Bakony consists of two parts: the southern part with the largest town of the Central Range, the regional capital Veszprém, together with the towns of Várpalota and Sümeg and the northern part also called Upper or Old Bakony. There are unspoiled romantic places here for walking and excursions. The best known town in this region is Zirc. The chain of hills of the Bakony Lowland on the west edge of the range is also part of the Bakony Forest linking it to the Kisaföld. Papa is the largest town here.