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Altal-er River
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River
The Által-ér is a significant right-bank tributary of the Danube in northwestern Hungary, originating in the northern slopes of the Vértes Mountains. Flowing for approximately 51 kilometers, it traverses a diverse landscape before reaching its mouth at Dunaalmás. Historically, the river's power was harnessed for mills as early as the Roman era, and later it played a crucial role in supporting the region's medieval settlements. During the 20th century, the river was heavily impacted by the coal mining industry in the Tatabánya basin, leading to extensive engineering works and environmental challenges. A key highlight of its course is the Old Lake (Öreg-tó) in Tata, which the river feeds; this lake is a protected Ramsar site and a vital stopover for tens of thousands of migrating wild geese. Recent ecological restoration efforts have focused on improving water quality and restoring the natural habitats along its banks. The river basin, covering over 500 square kilometers, remains a vital link between the industrial heritage and the natural beauty of the Gerecse and Vértes regions.
- Location: Hungary
- Nearby: Bicske (25 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | 0 | 5 | 11 | 16 | 21 | 23 | 22 | 17 | 11 | 5 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 39 | 40 | 41 | 35 | 65 | 70 | 66 | 63 | 57 | 51 | 44 | 43 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The stream flows through Tata and feeds Lake Öreg; it is easily accessible from various points within the town and its surrounding parks.
Best season
Spring and autumn are beautiful for walking along the banks, while summer features a lush green environment around the connected lake.
Terrain & paths
The terrain alongside the watercourse is predominantly flat, featuring paved sections in town and gentle dirt paths in the greener outskirts.
What to bring
Standard walking shoes and weather-appropriate casual clothing are perfectly fine for exploring the riverbanks and nearby parklands.
Parking
Visitors can usually find parking spaces in the town of Tata, particularly near Lake Öreg and the local historic castle.
Safety
It is a peaceful, urban and semi-urban environment with very few hazards; standard caution near the water applies.
Time needed
A leisurely stroll along the river and around the connected lake generally takes 1 to 2 hours.
Geography
Facts
- The total length of the river is approximately 51 kilometers.
- Its source is located in the Vértes Mountains near Pusztavám.
- The river flows into the Danube at the town of Dunaalmás.
- The catchment area covers approximately 520 square kilometers.
- It feeds the Old Lake in Tata, a vital habitat for migratory birds.
- During the 18th century, over ten watermills operated along its course.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Altal-er River (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where does the Által-ér originate?
The Által-ér originates in the Vértes, near Pusztavám, passes through the town of Tata, and flows into the Danube at Dunaalmás.
What is the significance of the stream for Tata?
This stream feeds the Old Lake (Öreg-tó) in Tata and plays a decisive role in maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding wetlands.
Is there a bicycle path along the Által-ér?
Yes, a very popular bicycle path connects Tatabánya and Tata along the stream. It is flat, paved, and well-suited for family trips.
Is fishing allowed in the stream?
Fishing is possible on certain sections with a permit, but the stream is famous more for its natural environment than for trophy catches.
Is there a risk of flooding?
After heavy rains, the water level can rise suddenly. In Tata, a system of sluices and reservoirs helps protect the city.
Altal-er River: where is it located?
Altal-er River is located in Hungary.
Altal-er River: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Altal-er River: why is it worth visiting?
The Által-ér is a significant right-bank tributary of the Danube in northwestern Hungary, originating in the northern slopes of the Vértes Mountains.
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Turul Monument
The largest bird statue in Central Europe, located on Kő Hill above Tatabánya.
Tata Castle
A beautiful water castle on the shores of Lake Öreg in Tata.
Vértes Mountains
Karst mountains in Transdanubia with ruins and forests.
Vértesszőlős / Vértes - Csókakő
Prehistoric site at Vértesszőlős and the scenic ruins of Csókakő Castle in the Vértes hills.
Nature
Gerecse
A mountain range in northern Transdanubia, known for its red marble.
Lake Bokod
Famous for its 'floating village' of fishing huts.
Száraz Hill
Száraz Hill is a distinctive elevation in the Vértes Mountains.
Lake Garancsi
A small, idyllic lake in the Zsámbék Basin.
Gaja Brook
A picturesque brook that carved a deep gorge in the Bakony Mountains.
More places
Tata Fenyes Nature Trail
A boardwalk trail through a unique marshland, over crystal-clear springs.
Gerecse Wildlife Park
A wildlife park in the Gerecse Mountains, showcasing native species in their natural habitat.
🗺️
Gerecse Forest
Extensive forests in the limestone mountains of the Gerecse.
Vertes Peaks
Hilly landscape in the northern Vértes Mountains.
Fort Monostor
A gigantic fortress system in Komárom, one of Central Europe's largest fortifications.
Suzuki Plant Esztergom
The hub of Suzuki production in Hungary, where millions of cars have been built.
Esztergom Basilica
Hungary's largest church and the seat of the Catholic primate.
Pilis Peak
The highest point of the Pilis Mountains.