Mineral collecting at some of Hungary’s most beautiful spots is back in 2026 with guided adventure tours for adults, families, and kids. Expect hikes through hills and valleys, striking natural sights, hands-on collecting, and a trunk full of finds by day’s end. Scheduled group tours run on fixed dates, and custom trips are available for groups of over 10 people on request.
March 1 – Gyöngyössolymos: Barite, Goethite, Quartz
On March 1, the Gyöngyössolymos outing heads to the abandoned Asztagkő quarry to collect barite, goethite, and quartz. After returning to the cars and unloading, those with energy left can continue to an agate–jasper–chalcedony site for bonus collecting. Reaching the first site requires an easy 0.9–1.2 mile walk. Expect a relaxed pace, good finds, and plenty of fresh air.
March 15 – Csobánka Spring Adventure Day
A light, family-friendly hike in Csobánka invites everyone to try their hand at mineral hunting. The locality yields UV-active barite, sometimes in spectacular 7.9–11.8 inch crystal clusters that wow the kids. The site is reached via an easy half-hour walk. From the meeting point, a 0.6 mile path leads to the upper parking area, which is also accessible by car. Everyone will find minerals here—and can bring home as many as they like. 2014 Csobánka.
March 27–29 – Birch Sap Harvest in Mátraszentimre
From March 27 to 29, Mátraszentimre hosts viricselés again, part of the Open Doors in Mátraszentimre (Nyitott kapuk Mátraszentimrén) program series. Viricselés means harvesting birch sap, which can only be collected in spring when the sap begins to flow. Birch sap is packed with nutrients, minerals, trace elements, and vitamins. It’s said to cleanse the lymphatic system, detoxify, reduce systemic inflammation, strengthen immunity, and alkalize the body. Used externally, it nourishes and hydrates skin and helps prevent an oily scalp and dandruff. Patience is key: tapping 169.1 oz of birch sap can take about three days, so the village fills the wait with craft workshops, food events, and a market—plenty of reasons to spend a long weekend in the Mátra.
March 29 – Chasing Rock Crystal in the Upper Mátra
This tour visits three spots where rock crystals can be found right on the surface without disturbing the soil—so everyone collects more than just a couple. Typical Mátra crystals measure 0.2–0.8 inch, but 1.2–1.6 inch pieces also turn up. Bring a backpack: you may spot crystals still on bedrock, and a small box won’t cut it. A mason’s hammer helps brush aside leaf litter or knock off excess host rock. Participants can take home as many minerals as they can gather.
More Dates
Additional offers run in February 2026 and from March 13 to November 15, 2026.
Organizers reserve the right to change dates and programs.
