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.
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.
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).
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.
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…
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.
Two very different history lessons, but both involving children and trains.
A day of sailing on Lake Balaton with a rented Scholtz 22. Calm waters, perfect weather, ideal for 2-4 people. Rental company 30 minutes away, affordable and flexible.
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.
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…