Dráva-medence
The Dráva River is Hungary’s cleanest watercourse—swift, swirling, and untamed—offering constant surprises to anglers. Its riverside vegetation and wildlife have remained largely untouched, and the area is now part of the Duna-Dráva National Park, protected under environmental conservation. The state border does not strictly follow the river’s main channel, sometimes running along one bank, sometimes the other, so it's advisable to check fishing regulations in advance. The region is a beloved destination for anglers seeking romantic scenery, natural beauty, and the thrill of wild waters. Preserving the local plant and animal communities is a shared responsibility.
The Dráva originates in the Tyrolean Alps on the Austrian-Italian border, near the village of Toblach, at an altitude of 1,228 meters above sea level. As it flows through Somogy and Baranya counties, the Dráva often crosses the Hungarian-Croatian border. It’s not uncommon to find Croatian territory on the left bank and Hungarian territory on the right. This unusual border alignment stems partly from old river branches (which, due to lateral erosion, can now lie far from the current riverbed), and partly from land ownership patterns dating back centuries. The old riverbed is still visible in the valley's meandering curves, gradually evolving into what is now the Holt-Dráva ("Dead Dráva"). Along the former river curves, sandy ridges known as “urnák” or “ormányok”—formed by river-deposited sand—provided the foundation for the one-street villages in the area. The name of the region, Ormánság, likely originates from these small hill formations.
Just a few minutes by car from Harkány lies Drávaszabolcs, the starting point for river cruises. Visitors can enjoy boat trips with optional meals or wine tastings, and there are even treasure-hunt-themed pirate tours organized for children.
Also in the region is the Ős-Dráva Visitor Center, which introduces guests to the natural treasures and traditions of Ormánság. It features interactive exhibitions, showcases of native domestic animals, educational trails, diverse outdoor programs, and environmental education workshops.
