On the road to Budapest

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We drove to the shores of the largest lake in Europe, lake Balaton. It is 75 kilometres long and around 12 Kim’s wide. As we approachEd the popular holiday beaches, struck me that it was like Tuscany, from photos I have seen. We stopped to join a dozen people snap selfies in a field of poppies, with the lake in the background.

The beaches of Balaton are the most visited tourist area in Hungary. I can see why. Wine country on surrounding slopes, sailboats one the lake, warm beaches, and an endless selection of cafes, wine bars ands children’s parks, this place has something good for everyone.
Tihany, a beautiful historic village on a hill overlooking the lake might very well be the spiritual heart of Hungary. The tourist presentations are in English, too. I think they are gearing up for international visitors who will love everything about this village. The thatched roofing reminded me of historic homes in England.

Lavender is grown here and put into soap, tea, etc.

Before leaving we tried fish soup, fresh from the lake. Very good, especially with a glass of local wine.

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Photos

Poppies
With lake Balaton in background

The most delicious croissant I have ever had
It was stuffed with an almond sauce that went perfectly with this pretty cappuccino.

Not too sweet
A Hungarian treat

Swan with tag
Must be to keep track of him

Shoreline
Lovely beaches, cafes, wine bars. This area is famous for the grapes grown here and the fine wines it produces.

Lake water
There are several ferries that take people and cars across.

Very fine wine
So many cafes with shops and rides for children

Earlier this morning we stopped so I could get this photo
One of many castles that survived over 1000 years of turbulent wars. This one had assault tower. Apparently,every summer there are medieval/castle games.

Amazing roses grow here
Every colour and style, they must have a mild winter

Tihany
One of the most famous and picturesque villages in Hungary with a working Benedictine Monastery

Village on a hill
And became a successful fortress town several times through history, but now it is more famous as sacred space.

Church
You can buy a ticket to see an informative video about the historic and spiritual significance of this site, tour the church and basement with many artefacts. I could watch video in English.

King Andrew
Established the Abby here to pray for his soul. Six years later he died when his younger brother took over the kingdom.

Fish soup
Before leaving we tried the local fish soup and more local wine.

Sumeg
A castle on a hill (Erika took the following photos). Thanks!