János Ranolder, the Bishop of Veszprém, was so impressed with the landscape surrounding this spot that on 14 September 1857 he decided to erect a cross on one of Badacsony’s romantic ridges. Here, Christ could look over the vineyards and protect the townsfolk from on high. Ever since, this has been one of the most scenic spots at Badacsony.
According to urban legend, pieces of the 12-metre-tall cross were pulled up the hill by 40 buffaloes. Below it, you can see the slopes of Badacsony, dotted with vineyards. Interestingly, if anything hits the rocks here, you can hear a sound similar to that of a bell. These sounds reach 400 metres above sea level, with an excellent view of Tapolcai-medence and Keszthelyi-hegység.
To reach it, you have to climb a bit: from the Badacsony stop, you have to follow the blue triangle (via Római út, then Kisfaludy Sándor utca towards Rózsa-kő), then turn left at the Hertelendy memorial and follow the Blue Trail. From the Badacsonytomaj stop, you just have to follow the blue cross that leads directly to the cross.
You can also start your journey from Badacsonytördemic, via Rodostó utca, then reach the Exiles Stairs through steep lanes – it’s a bit of a challenge. Climb the steps and then follow the Blue Trail until you reach the cross, and you’ll be rewarded with an incredible view.
