Thury-castle
Thury Castle in Várpalota combines cultural events with a quirky little museum full of surprising collections and family-friendly activities.
Surroundings
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The caves of Tapolca
A perfect rainy-day trip near Lake Balaton: underground caves, rowing boats on crystal-clear water, fascinating geology and a charming little town to explore afterwards.
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The other side of the Balaton
Mass tourism or authenticity at Lake Balaton? Our experience with Kis-Balaton, and Zalakaros
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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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History lessons from Budapest
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.
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Kids and trains…
Two very different history lessons, but both involving children and trains.
