Bodrog river - a Living River, Floodplain Heritage and Sustainable Water-Based Experiences

The Bodrog river is one of the most distinctive floodplain rivers of the Carpathian Basin, shaping the everyday life of communities along its banks for centuries. Settlement patterns, transport routes and traditional livelihoods have long adapted to the river’s water regime: older village centres were typically established on higher ground to avoid floods, while floodplain meadows, gallery forests and oxbow lakes formed a diverse and dynamic landscape closer to the river. The Bodrog represented not only a challenge, but also a vital resource. Its fish-rich waters, riverside orchards and meadows, and its humid microclimate contributed to local livelihoods and, in several areas, indirectly supported the unique climatic conditions of the Tokaj wine region.

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Fishing Traditions and River-Based Folk Knowledge

Along the Bodrog, fishing remained an important source of livelihood in many settlements until the first half of the 20th century. The names of traditional fishing tools still preserve a rich body of local ecological knowledge and practical experience tied to the river. Terms such as net, hook, fish trap, pirityelő, clapper, cast net, landing net, drag net, lobbanó, probing spear and harpoon continue to live on in local memory. These expressions reflect not only techniques, but also a way of life built on respect for the river and adaptation to natural rhythms.

A Legend of the Stony Riverbed between Tokaj and Bodrogkeresztúr

Numerous legends and folk tales have been passed down along the Bodrog for generations. One of the most well-known stories explains why the riverbed is so stony between Tokaj and Bodrogkeresztúr.

According to the legend, long ago, when fairies still lived on Tokaj Hill, shepherds grazed their flocks on its slopes. A huge rock stood there, the fairies’ favourite resting place, which they enchanted so that anyone who touched it would instantly turn to stone. One day a great storm arose, and the shepherds sought shelter beneath the rock, unaware of the curse. One of them touched it, and all were turned to stone at once. Over time, storms and heavy rains rolled the petrified shepherds down the hillside into the bed of the Bodrog. The fairies, however, were not cruel and took pity on them. They descended to the river, where the stone bodies of the shepherds rose from the water as large rocks. The fairies carried the shepherds’ souls back to the hill, touched them to the great rock, and they came back to life. Their stone bodies, however, remained in the river forever – which is why the Bodrog is still so stony between Tokaj and Bodrogkeresztúr.

A Legend of the Stony Riverbed between Tokaj and Bodrogkeresztúr

Bodrogzug and Wetlands – Floodplains, Birdlife and International Significance

The entire Bodrog river system, and especially the Bodrogzug floodplain area, represents outstanding natural value. Gallery forests, marsh meadows, oxbow lakes and seasonally flooded areas create a mosaic of habitats that support rare birds of prey as well as numerous waterfowl and wading bird species. The area is also an important stopover site along major migratory routes. Owing to its significance, the Bodrogzug was designated in 1989 as a Ramsar site, recognised internationally as a wetland of importance for waterbirds.

Water-Based Tourism on the Bodrog

The Bodrog offers excellent opportunities for nature-based water tourism along its entire course, from Tokaj to the upper reaches near the border and beyond. Its gentle flow, meandering channel and floodplain surroundings make it particularly suitable for kayaking and canoeing, including for beginners and families. Here, paddling is less about speed and more about slow immersion in the landscape: birdwatching, exploring oxbow lakes and side channels, and connecting with the cultural and gastronomic offerings of riverside settlements.

The Bodrog is also significant for recreational fishing, though strict compliance with local regulations and permits is essential due to the area’s high ecological value. The confluence at Tokaj and the surrounding river landscapes – reed beds, floodplain forests and sheltered bays – are especially attractive for photographers and visitors seeking quiet, nature-focused experiences.

Sustainability along the Bodrog – Responsible Visits and Community River Protection

The long-term tourism value of the Bodrog depends on preserving its natural character and the fragile balance of its wetland ecosystems. Responsible visitor behaviour is therefore essential, both on the water and along the banks. The “leave no trace” principle applies throughout: all waste should be carried out, single-use plastics avoided wherever possible, and quiet movement respected to protect birdlife and sensitive habitats.

Community-based river protection initiatives offer inspiring examples of shared responsibility. The PET Cup, widely known from the Tisza river system, promotes river clean-ups and raises awareness of plastic pollution across entire catchments. Its approach also highlights the importance of protecting the Bodrog as part of a connected river network. Visitors can contribute by reducing waste, choosing environmentally responsible local service providers, learning about protected area regulations and respecting seasonal sensitivities of floodplain ecosystems.

Sustainability along the Bodrog – Responsible Visits and Community River Protection

Practical Tips for Exploring the Bodrog

Best time to visit
The Bodrog can be visited year-round, but late spring to early autumn is ideal for water-based activities. Spring and early summer are excellent for wildlife observation, while summer offers calm water conditions for relaxed paddling. Autumn brings misty mornings and colourful floodplain forests.

Access points and route planning
There are several official and semi-official access points along the Bodrog, from Tokaj through the upper river sections. Beginners may prefer shorter, one- or two-day routes, while experienced paddlers can plan longer journeys. Always check current water levels and protected area regulations in advance.

Essential equipment – less, but more mindful
A stable kayak or canoe, life jacket, dry bag, sun protection and sufficient drinking water are essential. In line with I-DEST principles, reusable bottles, containers and minimal packaging are strongly recommended to reduce waste.

Target group

Class trips
Families with younger children
Families with older children
Multigenerational programs
Friends
Seniors
Couples

The Griffin Well Since 2010, the artwork of Sándor Gyula Makoldi, a resident of Bodrogkeresztúr and creator of several public square sculptures, provided water to tired hikers in the heart of the village. An important motif of the Hungarian Conquest chieftain graves found in the Bodrogköz region is the griffin bird, a mythical creature known from the White Horse’s son tale, a powerful and fearsome force that can lift you to heights you cannot otherwise reach. That's why the statue is designed in a way so that people can sit on its back while it gives thirsty people the gift of life-giving water from its own body.

Hungary, 3916 Bodrogkeresztúr, Kossuth utca 73

Greek Catholic Church The Greek Catholic parish of Bodrogkeresztúr was founded in 1766.

Hungary, 3916 Bodrogkeresztúr, Iskola köz 19

Philip the stork - stork nests A few years ago, the main street of the village had many overhead cables, which posed a constant threat to birds in the area. The proximity of the Bodrog river makes Bodrogkeresztúr a popular habitat for storks. However, the death of Fülöp the stork, who had lived in the village for 12 years, in 2018, has also highlighted the problem of overhead cables.

Hungary, 3916 Bodrogkeresztúr, Kossuth utca 16

Places
Berzi Estate - Nana's apartman

Nana Apartment is located in the picturesque village of Mád, in the heart of the Tokaj-Hegyalja wine region.
Mád Rákóczi utca 14

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The Treasure Trove of Bodrogkeresztúr

Keresztúr was inhabited already in prehistoric times. This is evidenced by the discovery of the two great artefact assemblages discovered.
Bodrogkeresztúr Kossuth utca 85

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Keresztúri Guesthouse

Ideal for both longer and shorter stays for families, small business groups, friend groups. The guesthouse can be reached through a calm, quiet inner garden, and it is guaranteed to be safe, child friendly, and accessible.
Bodrogkeresztúr Kossuth utca 85

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Fülöp the Stork Camp and Event House

The Fülöp the Stork Camp and Event House welcomes guests with 10 comfortable, fully equipped private apartments, communal spaces, and the option to rent water sports equipment.
Bodrogkeresztúr Kossuth utca 66

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Former Synagogue

According to the census of 1723-24, there were already 7 Jewish families living in Bodrogkeresztúr, and their number increased steadily during the 18th century. The strengthening of the community and the religious life is shown by the fact that the first rabbi of the Jewish community of Pest, Israel Wahrmann, was the rabbi of Bodrogkeresztúr prior to 1765, and there are records from the same year that the Bodrogkeresztúr fair was visited by Jewish merchants from Pest county. A few decades later, in 1786, 256 Jewish inhabitants were recorded in the settlement, in 65 households.
Bodrogkeresztúr Kossuth utca 30

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Places
The Griffin Well

Since 2010, the artwork of Sándor Gyula Makoldi, a resident of Bodrogkeresztúr and creator of several public square sculptures, provided water to tired hikers in the heart of the village. An important motif of the Hungarian Conquest chieftain graves found in the Bodrogköz region is the griffin bird, a mythical creature known from the White Horse’s son tale, a powerful and fearsome force that can lift you to heights you cannot otherwise reach. That's why the statue is designed in a way so that people can sit on its back while it gives thirsty people the gift of life-giving water from its own body.
Bodrogkeresztúr Kossuth utca 73

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Places
Greek Catholic Church

The Greek Catholic parish of Bodrogkeresztúr was founded in 1766.
Bodrogkeresztúr Iskola köz 19

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Places
Philip the stork - stork nests

A few years ago, the main street of the village had many overhead cables, which posed a constant threat to birds in the area. The proximity of the Bodrog river makes Bodrogkeresztúr a popular habitat for storks. However, the death of Fülöp the stork, who had lived in the village for 12 years, in 2018, has also highlighted the problem of overhead cables.
Bodrogkeresztúr Kossuth utca 16

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Places
The former Széchenyi-Wolkenstein Castle

Oszvald Wolkeinstein, a descendant of Julianna Rákóczi, built the mansion at the foot of the Dereszla hill in the last quarter of the 19th century.
Bodrogkeresztúr Kastély köz 18

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Places
The Acetania Vinegar Museum

The word vinegar does not always conjure up images of premium gastronomic value. It more reminds us of the cleaning techniques of our grandmothers, or the taste of bean soup with vinegar added.
Bodrogkeresztúr Tarcali utca 22

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The Rákóczi House

The building block with 4 living rooms, served as a residence for the Rákóczi family mainly during the grape harvests. The Baroque house was built in the 17th century but was somewhat rebuilt a century later and can still be viewed in this form. The house is the oldest non-church building in the village and still bears a Latin inscription on its walls: "Peace be within your fortress walls, and quietness in your palaces”.
Bodrogkeresztúr

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The Calvinist Church

The Louis seize style church was built in the late 18th century. At that time, the present Felső street was the main street of the village, and according to Joseph II's decrees, Protestants were only allowed to build the church 30 metres further down the street, with its back to the main street. History has served justice to the Reformed community in such a way that the lower street, closer to the river Bodrog, became the main route for the wine merchants, and eventually the lower street, going by the river, took over the role of the main street.
Bodrogkeresztúr

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Village Hall

The current Village Hall used to be the property of the Hohenlohe princes that was purchased by the municipal management in 1929.
Bodrogkeresztúr Kossuth utca 85

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The viewpoint

If you walk up to the viewpoint above the village, you can not only enjoy the spectacular view, but also get a sense of the mystical nature that the people of the area attributed to their natural environment for centuries. The local tales – told by the admiring and humble people - present a world where people do not dominate nature, but submit to its laws, and in return, nature gives them all the good things they can imagine.
Bodrogkeresztúr

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Places
Roman Catholic Church

The Roman Catholic church dedicated to the Exaltation of the Holy Cross dates back to the 13th century.
Bodrogkeresztúr Iskola köz 11

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Places
The Rabbinic House

The rabbi died in April 1925, and on the day of his funeral 12,000 train tickets were sold at the Bodrogkeresztúr train station. On the anniversary of his death, hundreds of pilgrims came to Bodrogkeresztúr in the following years - and today pilgrims come not only on the anniversary, but at any time of the year.
Bodrogkeresztúr Kossuth utca 67

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Places
The statue of the Hungarian prince Ferenc Rákóczi II.

In 1648 Ferdinand III donated Bodrogkeresztúr to György Rákóczi. Half a century later, in 1699, Ferenc Rákóczi II and Julianna Rákóczi agreed on the allocation of the estates, as part of which Julianna Rákóczi became the owner of the properties in the village. At the same time, the Rákóczi War of Independence determined the fate of the whole Tokaj-Hegyalja region - thanks to this, a life-size bust of Rákóczi, cast in bronze by sculptor Géza Balogh based on a painting by Ádám Mányoki is now featured in the centre of the village.
Bodrogkeresztúr Kossuth utca 79

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Places
World War I Memorial

The monument is a memorial of the heroes of the First World War.
Bodrogkeresztúr Kossuth utca 21

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Places
Csicsörke Manufactory

Confitures, jams, syrups and other specialities, made of locally grown fruits, following family recipes, without preservatives.
Bodrogkeresztúr Kossuth utca 114

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Places
Bodrog river

The Bodrog river is one of the most distinctive floodplain rivers of the Carpathian Basin, shaping the everyday life of communities along its banks for centuries. Settlement patterns, transport routes and traditional livelihoods have long adapted to the river’s water regime: older village centres were typically established on higher ground to avoid floods, while floodplain meadows, gallery forests and oxbow lakes formed a diverse and dynamic landscape closer to the river. The Bodrog represented not only a challenge, but also a vital resource. Its fish-rich waters, riverside orchards and meadows, and its humid microclimate contributed to local livelihoods and, in several areas, indirectly supported the unique climatic conditions of the Tokaj wine region.
Bodrogkeresztúr Kossuth utca 16

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