Berhida
Berhida, near Lake Balaton, is full of history and charm, with a 13th-century church, scenic nature trails, and a royal legend to tell.
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Cycling tour around eastern Balaton
We went on a three-day cycling tour along Lake Balaton, with an extra loop through the Bakony region to cover sufficient distance. We started in Berhida and cycled via Eplény along quiet country roads to the north coast. Via Balatonfüred and the coast of the Tihany peninsula, we crossed over to the south shore at Szántód. On the third day, we temporarily left the shore, cycled over cliffs and forest roads, and ended up back in Berhida. We encountered unpaved or impassable sections, sometimes overgrown paths, and busy stretches without cycle paths; but everywhere we enjoyed views, tranquillity, and flexibility.
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The Hungarian mountain ranges
We explore Hungary, focusing on the Mátra and Bükk mountains and the Bakony further afield. Visit charming Eger, with its local wine (Egri Bikavér) and natural beauty. And, of course, the highest peak, Kékes (1014 m).
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Discovering Hollókő – A Timeless Hungarian Village
A visit to the historic Hungarian village of Hollókő, near the Mátra Mountains. Comparable to Bokrijk, but authentic: the houses are still in use. The village mainly lives off tourism: shops, cafés, museums in every house. You can walk to a castle and further on to a work of art called “the palm of God” with views over the valley. Conclusion: definitely worth a visit, especially if you are staying in the Mátra.
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The Stones Speak
In Székesfehérvár, just half an hour from our home, there stands a truly unique castle. Not a historical monument, not a palace of nobles, but a work of art: Bory Castle. The sculptor-architect-painter Bory worked on it for 40 years, and it really is one great artwork. As with all art: tastes differ. Personally, I…
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To be or not to airbnb
A year ago, we moved with an open mind (‘we’ll see’) and converted our upper floor into a two-room apartment for friends and family. We decided to rent it out as well, not to make a living from tourism, but to welcome guests seeking peace, nature and simplicity. After registration (with inspection and 1 star) and listing on Airbnb, among others, the first guests arrived.
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Tigger & Tux
A house without a cat was unthinkable, but adoption through a shelter proved difficult because the cats were only allowed to stay indoors. However, the neighbours had two litters, so two kittens were adopted: a ginger tomcat and his “sister”, who turned out to be a brother (Tux). After a month, it appears that two kittens are more sociable together; they entertain each other and often seek company on our laps at the same time. The border collie Mazy is cautiously learning to play with them.
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Summer art and culture
Around Lake Balaton, there turns out to be a lot to do in the summer. Understandably so, as half of Hungary settles along its 200 km of shoreline. Besides sunbathing and swimming, it’s clear that Hungarians also enjoy music, dance, and art.We already took part in a portion of the annual Hungarian Summer Salsa Festival…
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All animals
One of my favourite pastimes is watching all the life in and around our home. The pond especially has proven to be a true oasis in this dry land. In no time at all, we’ve welcomed several frog species, a European green toad, and hundreds of birds (including 200 sparrows, wagtail, yellow wagtail, goldfinch, crested…
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Storing fruit and vegetables
Our own fruit and vegetable production is still limited, but thanks to an abundance of fruit from neighbours, we are experimenting with preserving, bottling and drying. We do have our own walnuts and cherries, and one day we would like to distil our own pálinka.
