Bandi Patkó

Patkó Bandi's Tree is a centuries-old oak standing beside Highway 6 between Barcs and Darány, in the Barcs district of Somogy County in southern Hungary.

What makes this tree special?

This is one of the largest and oldest English oaks in Somogy County, estimated by experts to be somewhere between 300 and 400 years old. Standing close to the Középrigóc railway halt, near the Rigóc stream, the tree has been under nature protection since 1942 together with a neighboring larch and the stream's middle section. The whole area today forms part of the Danube-Drava National Park.

Where does the name come from?

The oak takes its name from Patkó Bandi, a legendary Hungarian outlaw figure. He was never a single historical person — folk tradition merged the exploits of several real outlaws active in the South Transdanubia region, most notably the Patkó brothers, János and István, into one composite character. Over generations their deeds blended into a shared legend, and this old oak became one of the physical landmarks tied to the story.

What happened to the tree in 2019?

On August 16, 2019, someone placed a lit candle inside the trunk's hollow, starting a fire that burned the tree from within. Firefighters battled the blaze for 23 straight hours, with ten crew members involved in the effort. Despite extensive damage to the trunk, the tree survived. The following spring, fresh shoots were spotted growing from the scorched branches — clear proof that the ancient oak was still alive and recovering.

How do you get there?

The tree stands directly beside Highway 6, the main road connecting Barcs and Darány, so it's easy to find by car. Slow down near the Középrigóc railway halt — the tree is only a short walk from there. It also makes a convenient stop for anyone exploring the surrounding Danube-Drava National Park, known for its riverside floodplain forests along the Drava.

What else is worth seeing nearby?

The Barcs area is known for its floodplain forests, wetlands, and proximity to the Drava River, which forms the natural border with Croatia. The national park offers hiking and cycling trails, and the quiet stretch around the Középrigóc halt is a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path spot for nature lovers looking to escape more crowded attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Patkó Bandi's Tree? It's a protected, centuries-old English oak standing beside Highway 6 between Barcs and Darány, named after a legendary Hungarian outlaw.

How old is the tree? Experts estimate it at 300 to 400 years old, making it one of the oldest oaks in Somogy County.

Did the tree survive the 2019 fire? Yes. Despite a serious fire that burned inside the trunk, fresh shoots appeared a year later, confirming the tree survived and is regenerating.

What's the best way to reach the tree? Driving along Highway 6 is easiest — stop near the Középrigóc railway halt, from where the tree is just a short distance away.