Dunamente Turisztikai Térség

Valley of Cellars – Tokod

Traditional viticulture has characterised the area of Tokod’s Valley of Cellars for centuries. Finds reaching back as far as Roman times indicate wine-growing in this region. The cellar network involves several valleys. Of these Nagy (Large) Valley is the longest, which is next to Kis (Small) Valley. Ürge (Gopher) Valley and Törökút open off the road to Bajna. The grapes themselves are cultivated on more elevated, sloping areas. A small chapel was erected by vine growers in honour of Urban, the patron saint of wine makers, in the hope of abundant crops at the boundary of Tát, Tokod and Mogyorósbánya. These days an increasing number of events are held not only for locals but for a growing number of visitors who come from nearby and far away. Thanks to their increasing popularity, more and more cellars and their surroundings are restored and welcome all who appreciate fine wine. Hikers can admire a spectacular panorama at the end of the valley.

Upper Row of Cellars – Kesztölc

The name of Kesztölc, close to the ridge of the Pilis Hills, is considered to be of Slav origin and certain researchers think that it resembles the name of the Alsatian Kestenholz. It has always been noted for its viticulture because the low hills in the valleys below the higher hills provide excellent opportunities for making wine. Beautiful rows of cellars can be found in several places in the village. They were built in different periods and each emanates a different atmosphere. Yet, despite their differences, they are “in harmony”. They can be seen by the main road, as well as in the charming side streets. Walking round curving, picturesque streets you encounter a different landscape each time because the village is very special due to its hilly and terraced position. The street named Upper Cellar Row is such a part of the village.

Village of Cellars – Piliscsév

Today the Village of Cellars in Piliscsév at the foot of Szirtes-tető (summit) belonging to the Pilis Hills consists of nearly 300 houses. Its friendly buildings and small streets, as well as the benches and tables in front of the cellars make it very friendly. Like most Hungarian villages, Piliscsév became depopulated during the Ottoman wars. After the Ottoman withdrawal from Hungary it came into the ownership of the Esztergom chapter. During that period grapes were planted on the hillside and Slovak serfs were settled here. Most cellars were built at that time and there are some which still exist today. From among the buildings of the Village of Cellars there is a fine view of the vicinity. If you wish for an even better panorama, you can climb the cliff above the Csévi Cave in half a day. The vista is magnificent from there, too. The characteristic ranges of Nagy-Gerecse and Nagy-Gete – the peaks rising in the Gerecse Hills – can be clearly seen in the distance and somewhat to the right the cliffs of Kétágú Hill, known as the most beautiful lookout of the Pilis Hills and the symbol of Kesztölc, glisten white.