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Going on these hikes are an enjoyable and not too taxing way of getting some exercise and meeting new friends. This one was very different to previous ones as it was venturing out of Budapest by train along the River Danube to Nagymaros then hiking into the wonderful Börzsöny Hills.

A challenging but beautiful walk with fantastic views, ancient forests, springs, streams and birds of prey and some deers. Nagymaros and Zebegény are two small, scenic towns, amongst many, tucked away not far from Budapest and well worth a visit even if you are not hiking.

Then after some three and a half hours, fourteen thousand steps (and only 800 calories burnt…) later, we got our reward, lunch at a local restaurant. This, in the wonderful spring sunshine, tasted fabulous and well deserved!

Words and photos by Russell Skidmore for XpatLoop.com
After an extensive career in advertising - as an Art Director & Creative Director in London, Paris and Budapest for leading agencies - Russel transferred the skills and knowledge gained to the development of his own successful company covering wedding, event, PR and portrait photography: www.russell-skidmore-photography.co.uk