Motorhome stops halfway between campsites and parking lots

What's the article about?

• Why is it worth choosing a stellplatz?
• In the footsteps of the Somló slopes and local wines
• A break at Lake Balaton and refreshing ice cream scoops in Balatonkeresztúr
• Idyllic farm life on the Great Plain and family adventures in Kecskemét

Stellplatzes are safe, well-maintained rest areas designed specifically to meet the needs of motorhome travellers. Here, we can primarily use the comforts provided by our RV (recreational vehicle) – kitchen, bathroom, and toilet – while the basic infrastructure – such as access to clean water, electrical hookups, and hygienic disposal of gray water and toilet waste – is provided for us.

Unlike at campgrounds, the provision of restroom facilities or a communal kitchen is not a standard requirement, yet these services can still be found at many RV parks.

However, it’s important to be prepared and not expect the same comprehensive services found at campsites from RV parking lots; be sure to check in advance exactly what facilities are available. Depending on their amenities, there’s a wide variety of stellplatz options to choose from.

In the footsteps of the Somló slopes and local wines

Located at the foot of the beautiful Somló Hill, Somló Stellplatz is a great starting point: it features 24 grassy sites spread across a 2,300-square-meter area, equipped with a kitchen, a washing machine, and free Wi-Fi. You can open the gate using the code received after booking online, making entry extremely easy. If you stop here, it’s worth exploring the region’s treasures: in Dobán, at the Somló Kincse small winery, you can sample excellent local wines by appointment. At the nearby Tornai Winery, the oldest family-run winery on the hill, you’ll find a wine terrace, a bistro serving local dishes, its own wine museum, and a guesthouse.

A break at Lake Balaton and refreshing ice cream scoops in Balatonkeresztúr

Just three kilometres from the Balatonszentgyörgy exit of the M7 highway lies the M7 Stellplatz Balatonkeresztúr, open year-round. At this unstaffed rest area with sixteen spaces, you can choose between two zones: the blue zone, featuring gravel and grassy plots with electricity, and the quieter burgundy zone without electricity. The gate also opens with a code received after booking online. Water supply and waste disposal facilities are available on-site. From here, you can easily reach Lake Balaton on foot or hop on a bike to visit the nearby Balatonmáriafürdő marina, from where you can take a boat to Szigliget or Badacsony. After an active day, a must-visit is Florida Fagyizó, which treats visitors to its multi-award-winning creations.

Idyllic farm life on the Great Plain and family adventures in Kecskemét

If your heart is drawn to the southern landscapes, the Fantázia Farm in Szentkirály offers a retreat from May 1st through the end of September. At this stop, nestled among melon fields and vineyards, you can enjoy spacious plots and even two comfortable guest rooms. Here, you can truly experience the closeness of nature while watching deer and pheasants in the meadows. It’s worth combining your stay with a trip to Kecskemét. At the Kecskemét Wildlife Park, even very young children can enjoy the interactive exhibits, as the park showcases the wildlife of all five continents despite its compact size. To round off the day, take a stroll through the Kecskemét Arboretum, which is free to visit year-round, and climb the 25-meter-high observation tower, which offers a magnificent view of the 62-hectare green space!

If we want to enjoy the outdoors from a motorhome, it’s worth following a few unwritten rules for our own safety and to protect nature. Ildikó Schreiber, an expert at Euroleasing Zrt., highlights a few important points, such as letting friends and family know our destination before we leave.

“Choose a spot where falling tree branches during a storm won’t damage your vehicle, and it’s also a good idea to stop on level ground and secure the vehicle properly.”

Ildikó Schreiber also emphasizes that we should always follow the rules for building a fire and make sure to have tools, a blanket, and enough water with us. “Last but not least: never empty the toilet tank into the river! As much as possible, leave the area undisturbed when you depart. By following this advice and adopting a few practical tips, you can enjoy wonderful experiences.”

When travelling in a motorhome, it’s important to keep not only comfort but also safety in mind. Ildikó Schreiber, Euroleasing Zrt., says it’s always a good idea to check the vehicle’s technical condition before setting off, paying particular attention to the tires, brakes, and lights. For longer trips, it is recommended to plan rest stops in advance and avoid driving while tired.

“If possible, do not leave valuables in plain sight, and always lock the vehicle securely overnight,” emphasizes Ildikó Schreiber. She adds: it is advisable to stop for the night in a safe, designated area and avoid deserted areas.

Proper equipment is also essential: carry a first-aid kit, a flashlight, a fully charged phone, and enough drinking water and food. The expert also advises checking gas cylinders and electrical equipment before departure and ensuring that all items are securely fastened. Conscious preparation can go a long way toward ensuring a carefree and safe trip