The Danube-Bend, often referred to as the Danube-Knee or in Hungarian as "Duna-kanyar," is a scenic section of the Danube River where it forms a sharp turn in its course, located in the northern part of Hungary. This area is renowned for its natural beauty, historical significance, and as a popular tourist destination.
The Danube-Bend stretches from the town of Esztergom in the west, through Visegrád and Szentendre, to Budapest in the east. Here, the river makes a U-shaped turn, surrounded by the Börzsöny Mountains to the north and the Pilisi Mountains to the south. This curvature creates a unique landscape, with steep hills and cliffs rising directly from the river's edge.
The region has been of historical importance since ancient times:
The Danube-Bend is a magnet for tourists due to:
The area is part of the Danube-Ipoly National Park, which was established to protect the natural and cultural heritage of the region. The park encompasses a wide array of habitats, from riverine forests to hilltop grasslands, hosting a rich biodiversity.