Őrtilos – Nagyatád: West Somogy and Kaszó

Parallel section of the Iron Curtain Trail in Somogy county has a lot to offer to the visitor. The church of Őrtilos-Szentmihályhegy provides a unique view to the Mur and the Drava. Historical fact referring to the close relationship with the opposite side of the border is that Szentmihályhegy (hill of St. Michal) on the Hungarian side once was called Legrad hill. In the outskirts of Őrtilos, near the Belezna railway stop remains of the onetime New Zrinski Fort is still under research.

Continuing through Zákány we arrive to Gyékényes, which is a beloved holiday resort of the area. The lake with crystal clear water offers scuba diving centre, fishing spots and a public beach.

Csurgó is known from the historical fact that famous Hungarian poet of the 18th century, Mihály Csokonyai Vitéz, worked as teacher in the local Calvinist secondary school. The eclectic school building and its library has been the first historical memorial place in the county.

From Szenta to Kaszó a forest railway is going through the protection area, which is otherwise not accessible for visitors. One of the stops is located next to the Baláta Lake, which, along with the surrounding nature protection area and forest, is one of the most important nature reserves in Somogy county. Visiting the nature is possible on the canopy trail going 9 m above the ground. In Kaszó a wildlife park is operated by the local forestry, the village offers also a few accommodations.

Vilma House in the village of Somogyszob is the oldest preserved traditional residential house. One can visit the traditional smoky kitchen, also food prepared in furnace may be tasted. One of the rooms is equipped with old furniture and utensils, the other one is exhibition of a workshop. Visitors, upon pre-announcement, may get acquainted with weaving and pottering.