Ipolytarnóci Ősmaradványok
The visitor centre of Ipolytarnóci Ősmaradványok presents the petrified forest and animal tracks of the Miocene epoch, with an exhibition, a 4D cinema and nature trails.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
Ipolytarnóci Ősmaradványok is a nature reserve in Nógrád County, close to the Slovak border. An ancient volcanic catastrophe in the Miocene epoch buried the surrounding forest and its wildlife; the petrified tree trunks, the leaf impressions and the sandstone that preserves shark teeth make it one of the most important geological showcases in the world today.
The area is managed by the Bükki Nemzeti Park Igazgatóság (Bükk National Park Directorate). Visitors are welcomed at the Ősfenyő Belépő reception building, which evokes the geological past: its corridor imitates the interior of a huge petrified giant conifer. The exhibition hall presents events from the geological past, and in the cinema a four-dimensional animated film shows the vanished world, with moving seats and simulated conditions.
The nature trails start from the reception building: the guided geological trail leads to the footprints of ancient animals and to the petrified trees. There is also a treetop trail, a playground, the Bükkábrány giant conifers under a protective roof, and the Miocene Forest, all open to visitors. The area is part of the Novohrad–Nógrád UNESCO Global Geopark.
Highlights
- Ősfenyő Belépő reception building with exhibition hall
- 4D cinema with moving seats
- Guided geological trail with footprints of ancient animals
- Petrified trees and leaf impressions
- Treetop trail from the Tuzson-torony
- Bükkábrány giant conifers under a protective roof
Permanent exhibition
- Földtani kiállítás a fogadóépületben – The exhibition hall presents events from the geological past in a vivid way; alongside it, a four-dimensional animated film brings the ancient world to life.
- Operated by
- Bükki Nemzeti Park Igazgatóság
Admission & discounts
| Adults | HUF 1,200 |
|---|---|
| Visitors with disabilities | –People with disabilities can enter with a registration ticket (HUF 200); special needs must be declared when booking. |
| Treetop trail supplementary ticket | HUF 1,000 |
| 4D cinema ticket | HUF 2,000reduced: HUF 1,700 |
| Geological trail, full ticket | HUF 3,000reduced: HUF 2,500; guided tours only |
| Combined ticket, adult | HUF 4,000reduced: HUF 3,500 |
| Registration ticket | HUF 200for children under 3, people with disabilities and other eligible persons |
A ticket is required to enter the area. The HUF 1,200 walking ticket entitles you to the protected area, parking, the exhibition in the reception building, the playground and the non-guided nature trails. Geological trail: full ticket HUF 3,000, reduced HUF 2,500; combined ticket HUF 4,000, reduced HUF 3,500; family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) HUF 14,000. In 2026 the prices have not changed.
Accessibility
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Kids & families
Great for kids & families
- Family tours & workshops
- Baby changing facilities
- Playground / play area
The reception building has a baby changing room, and a playground stands next to it. Pets on a leash may be brought in.
Getting there & parking
By public transit
Ipolytarnóc, busz- és vasútállomás
By car
Free parking
The reception building is 2 km from the Ipolytarnóc bus and railway station and can also be reached on foot. There is also a car park suitable for coaches.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
- Café
- Wi-Fi: not available
Treetop café on the site. There is no free internet on the site, and the mobile signal is weak.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| School programs | yes |
| Good to know | The geological trail can only be visited with a guide; the starting point of the tour is 700 m from the reception building, so it is advisable to arrive at least half an hour early. Groups (over 20 people) must register in advance. |
