- Noémi Vizi
- Photos: Csorba Dániel
- Reading time: 2 minutes
Noble Elegance at Batthyány Castle Hotel**** in Zalacsány
Our next destination takes us to the Batthyány Castle near Lake Balaton. We are in Zalacsány, on an estate surrounded by a magnificent park with centuries-old trees that have stood here for more than 300 years. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for family holidays or trips with friends, where relaxation and slowing down take centre stage. At the heart of the 10-hectare estate stands the castle, whose foundations date back to 14901. The property came into the possession of the Batthyány family during the 19th century, when they immediately began enlarging and transforming the residence. Another major reconstruction took place in 1913 under the direction of Count Pál Batthyány and his wife, Countess Karolina Inkey. As Lord Lieutenant (High Sheriff) of Zala County, Pál Batthyány required a residence worthy of his prestigious position and noble rank. The atmosphere of aristocratic elegance created during that period continues to define the castle today. Designed by architect Samu Wessermann, the building combines Baroque and Art Nouveau elements in a harmonious architectural composition. Like many Hungarian noble estates, the Batthyány property was nationalised after the Second World War and converted into a children's home. Over the decades, the building deteriorated significantly and eventually became unsafe.
The estate entered a new chapter when its current owner transformed it into an elegant hotel and event venue, located just 10 kilometres from Hévíz. Today, guests of Batthyány Castle Hotel can experience the refined atmosphere of early 20th-century aristocratic life. The castle offers 28 guest rooms, including nine suites, four superior rooms, and two family rooms. Burgundy and soft aqua-green tones dominate the interior design, while the carefully selected furnishings reflect the highest standards of quality and comfort. The restaurant serves traditional Hungarian cuisine with homemade flavours, while the elegant bar is the perfect place to enjoy an aperitif before dinner or finish the evening with an excellent wine from the Balaton Highlands.
In addition to the castle itself, the Batthyány estate also includes a historic manor house, a villa park, and a wellness centre featuring indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and relaxation facilities. Guests seeking more active recreation can enjoy the mini golf course or participate in organised excursions and gastronomic tours exploring the surrounding region.
The estate is not only an excellent destination for family holidays and romantic getaways but also a popular venue for corporate events, conferences, and weddings. The event centre was created by transforming a more than 100-year-old granary into a unique function space. The two-storey building can accommodate approximately 110 guests on the upper floor and up to 250 people on the ground floor2. Surrounded by a beautifully maintained park, it provides an idyllic setting for wedding photography and outdoor ceremonies, making it especially appealing to couples who dream of a romantic countryside wedding. A newly added wing, completed in 2023, has further enhanced Batthyány Castle Hotel as one of the region's premier wedding venues.
A stay in Zalacsány would not be complete without exploring the village and its natural surroundings. Visitors should not miss a leisurely walk around Lake Zalacsány, a favourite destination among anglers and the starting point of the Körtvélyes Nature Trail. Among the many hiking routes in the area, one of the most scenic is the Örvényes Hill Circular Trail, which passes the memorial site of a Pauline monastery dating back to the 14th century. Nordic walking poles are available for hire at the hotel reception, making it even easier to discover the beautiful countryside.
