The arboretum was established in 1799 by Cistercian monks who integrated the existing natural forest with exotic species.
It holds the status of a protected nature reserve, officially recognized for its environmental and historical significance since 1951.
The Cuha stream flows directly through the garden, creating a unique microclimate that supports both native alpine-influenced flora and introduced specimens.
The park features several 'champion trees' that are among the oldest or largest specimens of their kind in Hungary.
It remains one of the few historical landscape gardens in Hungary that still retains a significant portion of its original botanical layout.
The Zirc Arboretum is the highest-lying arboretum in Hungary, situated at an altitude of approximately 400 meters above sea level within the Bakony Mountains. Managed by the National Museum of Hungarian Agriculture, the garden serves as a protected nature reserve and a center for dendrological research. It occupies the former parkland of the Cistercian Abbey and is bisected by the Cuha Stream. The collection features over 600 species of trees and shrubs, including exotic varieties like the giant sequoia and various species of pine and maple. A historic English-style landscape garden design characterizes the core area, which integrates seamlessly with the surrounding woodland. The site contains a small artificial lake and a stone bridge that spans the Cuha stream. The arboretum serves as an educational site for forest biology and maintains historical records of species planted since the 18th century.
The stone bridge overlooking the Cuha stream with the Cistercian Abbey in the background.
Wear waterproof walking shoes as the paths near the Cuha stream can remain damp even on dry days.
Bring a camera lens capable of macro photography, as the flora and the stream's mossy banks offer high-quality detail shots.
Check the official website for seasonal guided walk schedules to gain access to the more restricted botanical research sections.
Do not attempt to cross the Cuha stream outside of designated bridge crossings, as the banks are often muddy and slippery.
Open daily year-round, though some pathways may be inaccessible during heavy winter snow or after severe spring flooding of the Cuha stream.
Stay on marked gravel paths to protect the delicate root systems of the historic tree collection; pets must be kept on a leash.
