Winter activities across the country

Going on a winter outing, skiing or sledging is a great way to meet new people and combat the depression that is common at this time of year. Many places in the country offer great opportunities for exercise in cooler weather, from hiking to downtown skating rinks to skiing, or even a thrilling snowball fight to find the activity that appeals to you.

A trip to Kékes

Kékestető is worth a visit for its clean, high altitude air alone, but its natural wonders are also a magical sight in winter. As the foliage falls, the landscape becomes even more visible, making snow-capped mountains up to several hundred kilometres away visible. The winter hiking trails in the gruel-strewn forest are magical, but it is worth checking the weather before you set off. The recommended route of the Kékes hike starts from Kékestető to Mátraháza and then back to the top of the mountain. The hike is 5.7 km long, with a moderate level of difficulty, so hikers who are used to moving can go for it.

Ski Park in Mátraszentistván

The almost 10-hectare ski park is Hungary’s most popular family-friendly winter sports centre. The family business has been offering snow-sure slopes for more than 20 years. Young children can take ski lessons and the slopes often host national ski and snowboard competitions. Sports equipment can also be rented on site. For the perfect experience, visit the Hóhatár Hut or the Hóhányó Rönkbár. There are hot drinks to keep you warm and relaxed, and you can also try the huts’ unmissable dish, steam dumplings.

Sledging track in Mátraháza

When the flakes finally fall, it’s time to dust off the sledges and head to Mátraháza! Families from all over the country come to enjoy the snowy experience. Besides the bobsleighs, there are all sorts of facilities here, you can also use a bobsleigh or a slide to glide down the slope, but you should hold on tight as the terrain is a bit bumpy in places. Hot drinks and hot snacks are available at the buffets in the car park to warm you up after the adventure.

Ilona Valley waterfall

Leaving Parádfürdő, the Ilona Valley waterfall offers a special location and a pleasant hiking trail. In winter, the largest natural waterfall in Hungary, with the biggest difference in level, turns into a spectacular fairytale world enclosed in ice. Children are welcome on the hike, but it is important to wear waterproof layers. The road leads through the Visszhang ridge, where the smaller ones can shout a few, but you can also slow down for a snowman building session. We also recommend the hike in early spring, as the waterfall with its slits is really spectacular after the thaw. After the hike, stop for a delicious cake or hot chocolate in Parádfürdő.

Hiking in the Mátra Mountains

For those who are keen on hiking, winter is no time to rest on their laurels, as many of the National Blue Trail routes are safe to follow even in winter. In addition to the experience of movement, blue trekking also gives you the opportunity to learn about the natural and cultural history of the routes concerned, but it is also a chance to look inwards or even to build new relationships. There are several trails in the Mátra area, with longer hikes for the more adventurous and shorter sections for the less experienced hikers. In all seasons, it is a great pleasure to admire the beauty of the landscape from the various viewpoints. From the 30-metre-high tower on the Galya-tető (Galya roof), you can enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding mountains and valleys. On the top three floors, there is also 1-1 community accommodation per floor. Near Mátraszentlászló is the Vörös-kő lookout, named after the nearby red-coloured stones. From its terrace you can enjoy a stunning view of Mátraszentistván, the Karancs region, and in fine weather, all the way to the Tatras mountain range. The Sas-kő (Eagle Stone), which commemorates the tourist heroes who died in the First World War, is located on top of an 899-metre high ridge near the Kékestető.  Looking down on the landscape from the rock lookout, time stands still. On a clear day, you can see not only the surrounding countryside but also the Aggtelek Karst, parts of Slovakia, the high and low areas of the Tatras and the wooded Carpathians.

Bori Mami

Bori Mami in Gyöngyös, representing the slow food line, fits in well with the slower pace of winter. The bistro is characterised by classic flavours, excellent ingredients and creativity. Local, seasonal, richly flavoured home-style food and a cosy atmosphere combine to create a feeling of warmth at home.

Bánkút Ski Centre

Due to the excellent snow conditions in Hungary and the proximity of the two big cities of Eger and Miskolc, Bánkút has become a sought-after location for winter sports in Hungary. There are seven downhill ski runs to choose from, according to difficulty and length, but beginners and learners can also glide on the snow on the instructional trails. Of course, you can also rent ski and snowboard equipment here. Bánkút is also a favourite destination for sledgers, who can enjoy downhill skiing in safe conditions on a separate track. The Bánkút Tourist House was built on the route of the National Blue Trail, where hikers and winter sports enthusiasts alike can warm up. The restaurant serves hot drinks and hot meals.

Hiking in the Bükk countryside

Even in winter, the Bükk plateau offers countless fabulous attractions for outdoor activities. Following the Lillafüred trail is a wonderful experience. Hungary’s highest vertical waterfall cascades from a height of 20 metres down from the fairytale-looking Palotaszálló (Palace Hotel). The waterfall is a fabulous sight even when frozen, and the Anna Cave next to it is unique in the world. The temperature is 10 degrees in winter and summer, so it is worth taking a walk through the lime tuff tunnels. The Lillafüred Cable Car Park is one of the most popular attractions in the area and can be visited all year round. The more than 1,000-metre eco-friendly cable car takes you all the way to the Jávor meadow, while you enjoy the beauty of the landscape.

Csendülő – Noszvaj

An island of tranquillity is what Dr. Csernus has envisioned in the quiet village of Noszvaj, where we can leave the noise of the city behind. The beautiful renovated farmhouse is also a café, wine bar, restaurant and community space. The food is homemade, and there is usually something in the oven to look forward to.

Macok Bistro and Wine Bar – Eger

The Michelin Guide has awarded the Bib Gourmand award to one of the best rural restaurants in the region in 2022 and 2023. Located in the historic city centre, next to the castle, the Macok Bistro prepares delicious meals using quality ingredients sourced from small-scale producers in the area.  The place is light and lively, the food is based on traditional flavours with a reimagined bistro style. In the wine bar, you can taste specialities from local winemakers or take them home. If you are just stopping off for a break on a day trip, Macok is the place to go for that too, thanks to its flavours and the sense of life it offers.

The ski slope in Eplény

Between Veszprém and Zirc, you will find one of the best equipped and largest skiing centres in Hungary, the Vibe Park Ski Arena in Eplény. Running for almost 8 km in the heart of the Bakony, the slopes offer 16 different runs for everyone from beginners to expert skiers and boarders. The floodlit slopes can be used after dark, but not only are the days longer here, the season is longer too, thanks to modern snow guns that allow you to ski even when the weather is not suitable.

Nagyvillám Ski Slope in Visegrád

The Nagyvillám ski slope is located just a stone’s throw from Budapest, catering primarily to the needs of families with children. This is one of the most beautiful ski areas in our country. The gently sloping piste is perfect for skiing and snowboarding learners, but sledding fans will also find a trail for themselves. Of course, you can also rent equipment, get warm and have a meal.

Skating rink – Visegrád

With the onset of winter, the go-karting is replaced by skating. The almost 500 square metre rink is open every day, and even if you don’t have your own skates, there is something for everyone from children’s sizes to adult, large sizes.

Zebegény sledging track

The site formerly known as the ski slope is unfortunately no longer open for skiing, but it is still possible to go sledging. After the sledging, you can choose the Királyréti nature trail, which is easy to walk with children.

Monarchia Strudel House – Zebegény

The strudel house is open every weekend, and in addition to the usual flavours, you can also find specialities such as strudel with fruit rice or ricotta and spinach, or, in season, pumpkin pie or scones. Drinking it with a hot cup of coffee can make the world feel round for a moment.

Zemplén Adventure Park – Sátoraljaújhely

As one of the biggest tourist attractions in Zemplén, the Adventure Park awaits visitors all year round in the northernmost town of the country, Sátoraljaújhely. It has three levels, each offering different activities: the lower level has an ice rink, the middle level has ski and snow sledge runs, and a ski history museum has been opened here. At the upper station, you will find the lookout, the cable car track and the crossing track.

Harsányi Dűlőbisztró és Pincészet (Harsányi Wineyard Bistro and Winery) – Sárospatak

On the 17 hectare estate, quality wines are produced in the Tokaj wine region, respecting the traditions of the region and nature. The most popular Tokaj varieties are also available here, but you can also find specialities such as wine jam and must (unfermented grape juice) honey. The Dűlőbisztró has a beautiful panorama and its international cuisine is full of the flavours of the Tokaj-Hegyalja region.

TV Tower Viewpoint and Restaurant – Pécs

It is the highest building in the country, standing on the 535 m high peak of Mecsek. From the tower, you can enjoy what is probably the largest panorama in Central Europe. If you are not just looking to feast your eyes, check out the restaurant here.

Sauska 48 – Villány

“A liberated village gourmet, with world cuisine colours” is the ars poetic of Sauska 48. Fresh ingredients bought from local producers are the heart of the dishes, and excellent Villány wines are offered to accompany them. Add a touch of sophistication to traditional flavours and you have a truly unique gastronomic experience. The restaurant is also the representative place of the Sauska Winery, where you can taste and buy wine.

Morzsa – Pécs

Billed as a progressive bistro kitchen, Morzsa focuses on the quality of ingredients and technological precision. They surprise us with a seasonal menu that changes weekly, and the high level of creativity and the implementation of a clean fine dining concept has been awarded the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand award.

Unfortunately, the winter weather is not always favourable for those who want to slide on the ice of Lake Balaton, but fortunately more and more towns are opening their ice rinks in the settlements around Lake Balaton. On the south shore you can slide in Siófok, Balatonlelle, Balatonboglár and Balatonfenyves, on the north shore in Keszthely, Szigliget and Balatonfüred. Most of the ice rinks are open from the beginning of December, and there are usually warming areas and snack bars, and skates for hire. You don’t have to hang your bike on the peg in winter either, and in dry, rain-free weather you can cycle easily on the cycle path around the lake. The cycle circuit is suitable for longer or shorter distances, you can choose between flat terrain or steeper routes.