BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPES, AMAZING PROGRAMS
Things to see

RÉVFÜLÖP
Fülöp-hill Millennium Lookout

Among the natural attractions of Révfülöp, we would like to highlight the breathtaking panorama of Lake Balaton unfolding from Fülöp Hill. To convey the mesmerizing impact of this view, we quote the words of the renowned geographer, Jenő Cholnoky, who traveled the world:

“One of the most beautiful landscapes in the world unfolds from Fülöp Hill in Révfülöp. There may be higher mountains and larger waters, but the convergence of the marvelous array of volcanic cones with the expansive water surface is a sight comparable only to the shores of Brazil, near Rio de Janeiro.”

RÉVFÜLÖP
Ecséri Church Ruin

Az ecséri szőlőhegy lábánál, egy szántóföld közepén fedezhetjük fel az egykoron, a 12. században épült, román stílusú templom romjait. Az Árpád-kori építészeti emléket a török pusztítás során a faluval együtt égették fel. A Kővágóörs és Révfülöp között található, festői fekvésű műemlék közkedvelt úti cél a túrázók között.

ZALASZÁNTÓ
Stupa of Peace

In Zalaszántó, one of the largest stupas in Europe was built, consecrated by the Dalai Lama in 1993. Inside this colossal structure, the teachings of Buddha, relics, and a 24-meter tree of life are enshrined, safeguarded by the Stupa of Peace. The area surrounded by trees is a sanctuary of tranquility, where one can even engage in meditation.

CSOBÁNC
Castle of Csobánc

The castle, located on the barren, grassy summit of the Tapolca Basin, was built in the 13th century and served to protect the fortress’s people from the Turks during the medieval period. There are several hiking trails leading to its current ruins, ranging from easy to challenging, all accompanied by stunning panoramas. In good weather, the view extends from Lake Keszthely to the Tihany Peninsula, revealing the outlines of all the legendary hills of the Balaton Uplands.

BALATONEDERICS
Wonderberry Cave

In the protected area of the Balaton Uplands National Park, you can come across the entrance to the Wonderberry Cave. Thanks to organized cave tours, you can learn a lot about the cave’s peculiarities, and observe stalactites up close. The basic tour can be easily completed in 1.5-2 hours.

BALATONEDERICS
African Museum

The atmosphere of mythical Africa comes to life at the African Museum located on the outskirts of Balatonederics. The museum houses hundreds of trophies and an intriguing ethnographic exhibition. Surrounding the museum is a vast area with a mini safari park. Endre Nagy, a hunter and zoologist who lived in Tanzania for decades, moved back to Hungary in 1984 and established the museum from his own collection in his villa in Balatonederics. In the house, you can find the exhibition displaying Endre Nagy’s personal belongings, his former study with his desk, books, and various interesting African artifacts. The other rooms and hallways are adorned with different trophies, taxidermied animal furs, such as lions, wild boars, antelopes, leopards, rhinos, and elephants, to name a few of the most spectacular ones. On the estate, they’ve also created a small safari park where you can even ride a pony, encounter zebras, ostriches, antelopes, and buffaloes. Of course, pony rides are also available. They’ve built a few Maasai huts in the park, with life-sized native photocopies preserving the completely empty huts. At the end of the estate, on a hill, you can enjoy the view towards the Szigliget Bay from a lookout tower.

KESZTHELY
Festetics Castle

The baroque castle located in the heart of Keszthely was initiated by Christopher Festetics in 1745. The second phase of the family castle’s construction is attributed to George Festetics (I). The transformation works began in 1792, with the construction of the neoclassical late-baroque-style southern wing. The third phase of the castle’s construction, in a historicizing style, took place between 1883 and 1887, associated with Tasziló Festetics (II). A new, large wing was erected to accommodate ballrooms and guest suites, connected by a towered central section to the old building. At this time, the building acquired its final form. Hungary’s most visited castle welcomes visitors with six permanent exhibitions spread across five buildings, providing unforgettable experiences for every generation. Prestigious musical events and a variety of special activities further enrich the programs.

MONOSZLO
Hegyestű 

Between Monoszló and Zánka rises the Hegyestű, also known as the Guardian of the Káli Basin: its distinctive shape was achieved through mining activities carried out with human assistance during the 20th century. The basalt columns filling the interior of the former volcano, the breathtaking view from the 334-meter-high peak, the outdoor stone park, and an exhibition showcasing the natural treasures of the region come together to create an unforgettable experience.

NAGYVÁZSONY
Kinizsi Castle

Rising amidst the gentle hills of the Balaton Uplands, Kinizsi Castle stands proudly on a hillside in the village of Nagyvázsony. The castle, dating back to the Middle Ages, came into the possession of Kinizsi Pál after 1472, and it was eventually named after him. The structure underwent renovation from 2017, and in April of this year, the completely renewed fortress was opened to the public.

BADACSONYTOMAJ
Kisfaludy-Lookout

At the highest point of Badacsony, thanks to the Little Faludy Lookout, we can fully enjoy the best of the natural wonders offered by the nature and landscape of the Balaton Uplands. The 438-meter peak has been extended by an additional 18 meters, and for the unique panorama, we can ascend to the lookout terrace via a spiral staircase. The quickest way to reach the peak of the Uplands is by approaching from the parking lot established in the middle of the mountain.

BALATONFÜRED
Koloska-Valley Wildlife Park

Nature takes on a completely different face in the Koloska Valley Wildlife Park, located just a few kilometers from Balatonfüred. Our journey begins at the Jókai Lookout, then, circling the valley, we reach the Koloska Spring and the wildlife park, where we can observe Hungary’s wild animals in their natural habitat.

TAPOLCA
Mill Pond

For the Mediterranean atmosphere of Tapolca’s main square, it’s worth leaving behind the shores of Lake Balaton, although you don’t have to go far. With just a 15-minute drive from Szigliget or Badacsonytomaj, you can reach the charming Mill Pond. The surroundings of Mill Pond were considered the center of the city even in medieval times, and the mill located on the waterfront may have been built in the 13th-14th centuries. The plots of the houses used to extend all the way to the lake, but fortunately, today, lakeside promenades and terraced dining establishments welcome visitors.

TAPOLCA
Tapolca Cave Lake 

The spring cave hidden beneath the city can be explored by boat, and in the premises of the reception building, you can view an exciting exhibition about the karst region. The little ones can even venture into a crawling cave, while adults can test their skills with a special stone touch exhibit.

TAPOLCAI-MEDENCE
Tóti-hill

A Balaton egyik legszebb kilátóhelyének is nevezett Tóti-hegy tetejéről körpanoráma tárul elénk, többek között Csobáncot, Gulácsot és a Szent György-hegyet is kiszúrhatják a szemfülesek. A látvány minden részletének kiélvezése érdekében ajánlatos távcsövet is vinni. Ha a túra után Káptalantóti felé veszitek az irányt, érdemes felkutatni a Liliomkert Piacot is, ami egész évben, minden vasárnap várja a piacozni vágyókat.

BADACSONYTÖRMEDIC
Nádi Szél Water Tour Trail

The first water tour trail of Lake Balaton starts from the Badacsonytördemic Eco-tourism Visitor Center, where sitting in a canoe allows us to gain insight into the lake’s incredibly rich wildlife. The 6-station tour, marked with QR codes and GPS points, covers a distance of 3 km, and organizers also provide life jackets for participants.

TIHANY
Guard Tower Lookout

The panoramic view from the lookout tower in the middle of the Tihany Peninsula is unparalleled in the region: the Balaton embraces the peninsula, allowing us to see practically the entire lake from above. Moreover, in good weather, we can spot the Bakony Mountains rising in the distance and the elevated peaks of Somogy on the southern shore. An additional point of interest is that from the Guard Tower Lookout, the interior of Tihany can be excellently explored, making the landscape a geological curiosity as well.

SÜMEG
Bishop’s Palace Visitor Center and Café

Nestled at the foot of the Sümeg Castle Hill, the beautifully renovated Bishop’s Palace Visitor Center and Café awaits visitors like a baroque jewel box. Here, you can explore the impeccably preserved chapel, Hungary’s largest baroque stove, and in one corner, discover a wall painting depicting a court jester with a pointed hat, the story of which the exhibition sheds light on. Similarly, it’s worth seeking out the unique graffiti from the Napoleonic Wars, uncovered during the painting restoration works, on the walls of the upper corridor. Additionally, while lingering on the charming terrace of the visitor center’s café, you can indulge in the enchanting view of the Sümeg Castle.

Rezi Castle 

The main attraction of the Keszthely Plateau is the ruins of the Árpád-era Rezi Castle, towering on the rock crest. From this vantage point, hikers are greeted with an unparalleled panoramic view. The castle, easily accessible from the village of Rezi, was built on the cliffs of the 425-meter-high Meleg Hill following the Mongol invasion. The castle offers a beautiful panorama of the witness hills of the Balaton Uplands, and the best part is that reaching it is not much of a struggle. It’s a perfect choice for those who appreciate light challenges.

ALSÓÖRS
Somlyó Hill Lookout

One of the most beautiful panoramas of Lake Balaton awaits you at the recently renovated three-story Somlyó Hill Lookout, located in the northern part of Alsóörs. The wooden structure of the lookout is 17.5 meters high, and a spiral staircase with 74 steps leads to the top. Given its height, it’s no wonder that you can see the entire Lake Balaton and the nearby settlements from the top. Take a stroll around and marvel at the diversity of the region.

SZENTBÉKÁLLA
Szentbékkálla Sea of Stones

For centuries, the rocks formed from the white sand of the Pannonian Sea, cemented in the village of Szentbékkálla, served as the raw material for millstones cut by the local population. Today, however, they are among the most important natural treasures of the Balaton Uplands. The greatest attraction is the ten-ton rocking boulder named Kelemen Rock. After experiencing its swaying motion, we warmly recommend trying the Riesling of a local wine cellar.rizlingjének letesztelését.

BALATONGYÖRÖK
Szép-Lookout

In general, to behold a beautiful panorama, one must first ascend some elevation, and only then can they marvel at the treasures of the landscape after reaching the top of a hill or tower. The Szépkilátó in Balatongyörök is a true curiosity from this perspective because the viewpoint reveals the lake, the witness hills of the northern shore, and the hills of Fonyód without requiring any effort on our part.

SZIGLIGET
Szigliget Castle

Above the northern shore of Lake Balaton, on the peak of a volcanic hill, the enchanting walls of Szigliget Castle narrate a tale of adventurous life. Within the fortress, vibrant cultural programs await, and the panoramic view stretching to the witness hills of the Tapolca Basin and the shimmering waters of Lake Balaton is worth every moment. The castle is also dog-friendly.

HÉVÍZ
Aerating Rose Nature Trail and Canopy Walkway

If you’re longing for a peaceful stroll in a serene environment, head to Hévíz. Thanks to a project from last year, the already remarkable and world-renowned spa town in Zala County has expanded with over 20,000 new saplings, a 2.5 km-long aerating rose pathway, and a 15-meter high canopy observation tower.

KESZTHELY
Festetics Imre Animal and Wildlife Park

We can get acquainted with native Hungarian wildlife species at the wildlife park located on the border of Keszthely and Gyenesdiás, belonging to the Imre Festetics Experience Center.

TIHANY
Benedictine Abbey of Tihany

The Benedictine monastery in Tihany was founded by King Andrew I (1046-1060) in 1055, dedicated to the honor of Saint Anyos and the Virgin Mary. The founding king was buried here in 1060. The founding charter of the monastery is the oldest preserved document in its original form in Hungary, and its Latin text includes Hungarian words and expressions. Therefore, it is also the oldest written record of the Hungarian language.

Saint Geroge Hill

The Saint George Hill (415 m) is the distinctive, coffin-shaped volcanic witness hill of the Tapolca Basin. Similar to its neighboring Badacsony, it is also adorned with vineyards on its slopes, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding area from its barren, undulating plateau. On the steep side of the plateau, one can marvel at the most spectacular basalt organs in the country.

Like the other spectacular witness hills in the region, Saint George Hill is a messenger of the volcanic activity that occurred 3-4 million years ago. Its unique basalt columns are also referred to as basalt organs, and their peculiar appearance alone sparks human imagination. To top it off, the rocks reveal their secrets through a cavity emitting a chilly air, known by the locals as Dragon Lair or simply Ice Cave.

VESZPRÉM
Veszprém Zoo

Just 15 km away from Lake Balaton, in a wonderful environment, Veszprém Zoo welcomes visitors every day, including weekends and holidays. The full-day program of exploring the zoo offers enjoyable relaxation for all age groups, where visitors can discover the marvelous world of animals and meet our newest favorites.

ZÁNKA
Zánka Adventure Park

At Zánkaland Adventure Park, in a natural environment spanning 10 hectares, over 100 obstacles await you to put your skills to the test. If your height is below 140 cm, you can challenge yourself on the lower-level course to showcase your strength and agility. Follow in the footsteps of Robin Hood! Traverse the forest on ropes, in the saddle, climbing, swinging, sliding, as if you were in Sherwood Forest! If your height is above 140 cm, you can choose from smaller or more challenging courses running at heights of 4-6 meters. In the enclosed forest, they welcome you with pleasant climate even in the hottest or windiest weather. All of this becomes even more thrilling if you play here at night, in complete darkness, amidst the sounds and creatures of the nocturnal forest. Discover your unknown muscles and abilities while impressing your parents, children, and friends with your skill and courage!

ZÁNKA
Zánka Military Technology Park

If someone loves the large green, camouflaged machines – those that once defended the country on land, water, and in the air, perhaps even fought – it is worth visiting the park, which is currently the only military exhibition site on the shores of Lake Balaton.

We can get acquainted with native Hungarian wildlife species at the wildlife park located on the border of Keszthely and Gyenesdiás, belonging to the Imre Festetics Experience Center.