4+1 beautiful Hungarian villages where relaxation is guaranteed

Zebegény is a village in the Danube Bend, which in itself suggests that it is a place worth visiting even for its natural beauty alone. But if you are also looking for sacral recharge besides the revitalising powers of the nature, head to Károly Kós' fabulous Art Nouveau church, where you can admire its magnificent frescoes. Did you know that in the first half of the 1900s, Count Lászlóné Károlyi, aka Countess Franciska Apponyi, lived here? She was always genuinely concerned with the downtrodden and it was her life's mission to help them. The “Napraforgó-házak” (Sunflower Houses) on the banks of the Danube were built in this spirit, and besides their brilliant blue colour, they are a beautiful example of charity: it was the place of the children community, called the “Virágegylet” (Flower Society), which Franciska took under her wing. It is a fantastic yet thought-provoking place for a stroll.

In addition to the spectacular panorama overlooking Lake Velence, we have something else that guarantees a pleasant stay in Sukoró: the “Pagony Vadaspark és Arborétum” (Woods Wildlife Park and Arboretum) with its vibrant wildlife would be a great choice. This is one of the most visited spots on the northern shore of Lake Velence, rightfully called the “island of tranquillity”. A walk in the arboretum will be memorable if you also watch the big game show. Meet the majestic roe and fallow deer, mouflon, beautiful peacocks and pheasants, and do not forget to check out the aquatic wildlife viewing point. And if you are up for a different kind of adventure after the sightseeing, rent a kayak or canoe and get to the water. Did you know that Lake Velence will soon also include a multifunctional sports academy, which will make Sukoró the centre of kayaking in Hungary?

Velem, a pretty little village in Western Transdanubia, is full of natural and cultural attractions. Furthermore, the air here has a healing feature, making the place a veritable paradise for visitors suffering from respiratory diseases. Of course, everyone should take a breath of fresh air, but the village also offers other great activities. As part of the “Írottkő Natúrpark” (Írottkő Nature Park), you can explore the natural wonders on well-maintained hiking trails and learn about the turbulent history of the people living here in the past. If you are planning a visit to the village in autumn, do not miss the “Velemi Gesztenyenapok” (Velem Chestnut Days), one of the most atmospheric outdoor events in the area, where you can taste delicacies, watch folk art performances and take part in various dance and music events.

You could not find a better destination for relaxing, wine-indulging weekend in the countryside than Palkonya: the gastro village is a magical jewel in the Villány wine region. The small village of just 360 inhabitants has become one of the leading destinations for gastronomy lovers in recent years, and the location of the world-famous wine region is only one of the reasons why. Take a pleasant stroll in the area with fish ponds surrounded by the “Villányi-hegység” (Villányi Mountains), taste a delicious glass of wine and try the sophisticated menu using local ingredients. Dive into the culinary adventures of Palkonya.

If you would like to see why one of the most beautiful calvary in Hungary is considered to be in Magyarpolány, this is the right place for you. Take a hike up the cone-shaped “Kálvária-domb” (Kálvária Hill), which offers stunning views, with its chapel at the top. Let yourself be fascinated by one of Polányi's internationally acclaimed performances of the “Passion” and wander through the charming farmhouses of this National Heritage village. Immerse yourself in the amazing world of folk architecture in the Bakony.