Kékes is the highest mountain in Hungary, standing at 1,014 meters above sea level. The race distance is 11.6 km, but the final 2 kilometers have a particularly steep ascent — making it a real challenge.

I took part in the 13th Kékes Running Event on June 12, 2010. As usual for the Hungarian summer, the weather was hot — but that day, a heatwave made conditions even tougher. Thankfully, there were several well-placed refreshment stations along the route, and the event was very well organized. Many thanks to the team behind it!

At the summit, there’s a lookout tower that’s definitely worth visiting. On a clear day, the view is breathtaking. From the top, you can see far into the distance — and if you’re lucky with the weather, you might even catch a glimpse of the Tatra Mountains to the north.