Discover the Beautiful Bakony Mountains: MÁV Completes Multi-Billion Forint Rail Upgrade for Travellers’ Delight
The Bakony railway line is officially back in operation starting 10 October, following the summer renovation works carried out by MÁV on the Győr–Veszprém route. Engineers replaced the viaducts over the Gyökeres and Répás streams near Gyulafirátót, upgraded the bridge abutments, and conducted track regulation and renewal over several hundred meters, as reported by MÁV.
The steel-structured viaducts, each with spans of 21 meters, spanning over Gyökeres and Répás streams, were entirely replaced according to reports from the World economy. These bridge structures, which have been in operation for 128 years since the opening of the railway line, had only undergone two significant refurbishments during that period.
Along with the viaduct upgrades, the bridge abutments were renewed, and sections of the track, including the ties, were replaced with concrete sleepers. Approximately 2.5 kilometers of track regulation was completed, along with the refurbishment of several railway crossings. Vegetation along the track was also cleared, and hazardous trees were removed to ensure the safety of railway traffic. These interventions, funded by MÁV’s own resources at a cost of nearly HUF 2 billion (EUR 5 million), have eliminated previous speed restrictions over a 500-meter track stretch.
“This upgrade has modernized two iconic bridges with unique designs while preserving their heritage and ensuring long-term traffic safety,” remarked a MÁV representative.
For autumn hikers planning trips in the Bakony region, trains along Hungary’s only heritage-protected railway line are once again available. Travellers heading to the Cuha Valley can board trains running every two hours, and MÁV is offering a Bakony day pass for just HUF 1,199 (EUR 3), allowing unlimited travel for a full day between Győr and Veszprém, as well as on many local bus routes.
