Planning some weekend getaway near Budapest? Last weekend I ended up in Szilvasvárad, which is a little village in the north-east Hungary (very close to Eger). It’s actually quite popular weekend excursion spot, as there are plenty of sights and activities gathered into a relatively small area. Walk around Szalajka Valley was really great experience, especially when you passed many wonderful waterfalls. The greatest one, called Fátyol is made up of a series of naturally-formed limestone steps, which the Szalajka stream tumbles down.
If you don’t feel like walking along the valley, you can take a forest train. Running for 4 km through the valley, could be a good alternative. Approx 1 km from the last stop of the forest train, you can reach the Istállaskő Cave (discovered in 1911).
Once you are in Szilvasvárad, you need to try local specialties (fish, deer dishes). I strongly recommend to visit super cozy restaurant: Csobogó Étterem. Delicious food, especially their baked chicken breast with gnocchi, along with local mushrooms and Parmesan. Yum- yum!
If you wish to stay in some comfortable place, I can advise you to book a room in a 4 star hotel: La Contessa. Gorgeous view over the village, fantastic food served in their restaurant and cozy rooms. Being there, you can not miss amazing spa! I had really relaxing evening in the jacuzzi, and bio sauna. You can also use their indoor and outdoor swimming pool, various saunas with different temperature and steam rooms, where a Turkish massage is one of your option.
Overall I can strongly advise you to visit this little village, if you wish to escape big city life and enjoy the nature. Also there is a good option for all horse lovers! Szilvasvárad is home to the National Lipicai Stud and there is a possibility to take horse riding lessons. Looks like this little village has many things to offer!
What’s your favorite weekend escapes in Hungary?
