Martovce – Nature, Waterways and Rural Culture

Martovce combines protected river landscapes, waterways, peasant residential culture and family-friendly activities. Those looking for a place offering nature observation, regional history and excursions on foot, by bicycle or by boat will find different ways here to experience the same landscape.

Protected Areas between the Žitava and Gémeš

Alúvium Žitavy is a protected area above the mouth of the Žitava. Willow and reed stands characterise this area; approximately 76 bird species live there, most of them rare species. This makes the site particularly appealing to visitors who want to experience floodplains and birdlife not merely as a backdrop, but as an integral part of their journey. The Gémeš area also features a water-shaped landscape. Willow and poplar forests surrounded by farmland are frequently flooded and often remain under water throughout the summer. Gémeš includes species-rich marshes and several bird species, including grey herons and purple herons. The changing combination of fields, woodland, open water surfaces and marshland clearly distinguishes this landscape from dry hiking or cultural areas.

Peasant Residential Culture and Martovce Traditions

Since 1975, the listed Roľnícky dom has housed an exhibition on peasant residential culture. The traditional building was constructed in 1871 by István Nagy from a mixture of clay and straw using the local wattle-building technique. The rooms are furnished with original painted furniture from Martovce dating from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As part of the Museum of Hungarian Culture and the Danube Region in Komárno, the Roľnícky dom is open to visitors and preserves an original interior. The traditional folk costume of Martovce is also part of the village’s cultural identity. It is considered unique; there is no comparable costume in the nearby or wider surrounding area. Every year, the Celoštátne turičné folklórne slávnosti are held in Árpád-Feszty Cultural Park. A traditional custom welcoming spring brought young people together during Lent before Easter on the banks of Horváth Lake to sing and dance. The so-called candle dance is considered Martovce’s most typical and remarkable wedding custom. The historical picture is complemented by the Calvinist church, built in 1898 under the direction of pastor Lajos Puskás.

Activities for Families and Active Days

Martovce has a nine-metre-high rope course with several levels of difficulty and various obstacles. Younger visitors can use a lower ropes course 40 centimetres above the ground. The multi-purpose sports field with artificial turf allows visitors to play football, volleyball and tennis and is lit for evening sports. Boat trips with boat hire and guided water tours are available on the Stará Nitra. A 35 km cycling route considered suitable for families runs from Komárno via Lándor along the Stará Nitra to Martovce. It then crosses to the eastern bank of the Žitava and leads back to Komárno via Lándor. The route therefore connects several waterscapes, without its length or course being confused with a hiking route.

Educational Trails on Foot and on the Water

The Lesný náučný chodník runs through a picturesque 600-metre-long woodland area surrounding a ropes course. A pergola offers families and cyclists a place to rest during walks and bike rides. Play elements and rope courses make the trail varied; an outdoor oven can also be used for roasting. The Vodný náučný chodník comprises seven stations that visitors can explore by boat. It begins at a boat landing with a covered terrace and rest area. Small groups can set out in four-seater Balaton boats. During the boat tour, visitors learn about the history and equipment of local fishing and discover various fish species as well as former waterbird species from Martovce. More destinations for your selection: Svätý Peter, Kameničná, Buc, Hurbanovo, Čalovec, Kolárovo, Pribeta, Bodza.

For the higher-level travel overview: Komárno District.