Surroundings

Slachtoffers uit de communistische periode
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History lessons from Budapest

ByGaby

Discover Hungary’s complex history in Budapest by delving into the dark 20th century. Visit the Jewish quarters, the Great Synagogue and the Shoes Memorial for an impressive experience about the Holocaust. The Terror Háza Museum highlights the Nazi and Communist periods, while Memento Park preserves Communist statues. Learn about the silent resistance of Hungarians and their resilience. A fascinating people with a history full of nuances, where no story is black and white.

Cycling around Balatonalmádi

Cycling around Balatonalmádi

ByGert

On Easter Saturday, we cycled from Balatonfűzfő along Lake Balaton to Balatonalmádi. The tour, with an elevation gain of around 500 metres, requires good physical condition due to the challenging slopes. We climbed the Csere-hegy and Somlyó-hegy observation towers via good cycle paths, enjoyed the nature and rest stops, and returned to the start via a restaurant and a steam locomotive.

Trianon-museum Várpalota

The Trianon-Museum

ByGert

There are two castles in Várpalota. One dates back to the Middle Ages and played an important role in the fight against the Turks. Construction of the second castle began in 1721 by the Zichy family. Since 2004, the second castle has housed the Trianon Museum. The Trianon Museum is the only institution in the…

Bátorkő Vára

Bátorkő Vára

ByGaby

In the vicinity of Várpalota, near the Bakony Mountains, there are beautiful, well-maintained walking and cycling trails, ideal for trips in April and October. The Mapy app makes it easier to find routes than Google Maps. A favourite walk is the 10 km trip to the ruins of Bátorkő vára, via the ‘red cross’ path and back along the ‘red stripes’ cycle path. Plants such as blue iris, vinca and wild garlic grow here in the wild, giving off a strong scent.

Dalstation van ski-arena Eplény

Ski-area Eplény

ByGert

Hungary has no Alps, but does offer some ski resorts, such as the Mátra Mountains and the ski arena of Eplény, 30 minutes from Budapest. Although the altitude is limited (500 m, 175 m elevation gain), there are multiple slopes, elevators and ski facilities, including evening lighting and ski rentals. Due to its small size, waiting times are minimal, allowing for smooth skiing. The area is too small for a real ski vacation, but ideal for regular practice. In summer, it is transformed into a mountain bike park.

Parlementsgebouw in Budapest

Budapest

ByGert

If anyone knows anything about Hungary, they have probably heard about its capital, Budapest.
We had been there two years ago, and visited a shop or government building regularly in recent months, but it was high time to pay another tourist visit to our capital.