Columbia’s first Hike Society program had a successful year

During the year, more than ten different tours took place in iconic terrains in Hungary and neighboring countries. Participants were guided by renowned tour guides such as Camino Steve, Cofforest Évi and Feri, Precup Csaba or Demecs Norbi. Each time, the guides provided hikers with professional advice, from choosing the right equipment to practical hiking tips.

From Budapest forest tours to Pilis, Mátra and Visegrád Mountains to Slovak Paradise – milestones of the first year

The first stop of the program was Gyömbér Hill, followed by such diverse destinations as Mecsek, the Mátra at night, Börzsöny, Pilis, and several forests in Budapest. The organizers considered it important to offer both easier and more challenging routes, so that beginners and experienced hikers could find a program that suited them. Some of the tours were also enhanced with special experiences – for example, a mushroom knowledge workshop awaited those interested on the Börzsöny tour in June.

To close the year before the holidays, on December 20-21, the community will conquer the winter, fairytale-like landscape of Slovak Paradise with a special two-day tour led by Csaba Precup. During the program, participants can explore the world of snow-covered gorges, frozen waterfalls and adventurous ladders on 11-kilometer routes, with an elevation gain of 380 meters on the first day and 500 meters on the second. The tour is not only special in its appearance: it provides an opportunity to learn the basics of high-altitude hiking in a real winter environment, from snowcat travel to layered clothing to energy replenishment in the cold. The Columbia Hike Society’s year-end tour is thus a special outdoor experience, an opportunity for development and a new point of connection to the community that focuses on passion for nature and responsible hiking.

“The Columbia Hike Society is more than a hiking program: it is a community that offers quality time and inspiring outdoor experiences. Our goal is to promote the love of hiking and also to strengthen environmentally conscious thinking. This year showed great interest, so we would like to continue the program next year”

– said János Szabó, Columbia’s regional brand manager.

The first year of the Columbia Hike Society proved that a committed and enthusiastic hiking community is being built in our country, and the program will continue in 2026 with even more exciting new features.