A 390 cm-high overshot waterwheel mechanism that can actually be seen in operation offers a tangible way to experience Zala. At the Kotsy-vízimalom in Zalaszántó, you can watch the mechanism at work. Its size is striking; its movement makes the technical detail immediately tangible. Other aspects of the county range from vineyards on slopes and plateaus to protected waterscapes, historic sites and water-based activities.

Winegrowing and landscape

The Zalai Borvidék wine region was established in Zala on the slopes and plateaus of the Zalai-dombság and on the northwestern slopes of the Keszthelyi-hegység. It comprises two wine districts and 38 settlements. Its location and divisions offer different ways to understand it: the slopes and plateaus describe the landscape of the wine region, while the two districts and number of settlements describe its structure. This means you can explore Zala’s wine region through its geographical extent, not just through individual places.

Waterscape and literature

Kis-Balaton is Zala’s largest body of water. It covers 14,745 hectares and is strictly protected. It is also the setting for István Fekete’s classic novels Tüskevár and Téli berek. Landscape and literature come together here in a tangible way: Kis-Balaton is both an important protected natural area and the setting for the two works. This makes it a special point of reference if you would like to discover Zala through its landscapes and cultural themes.

Walking trails and encounters with animals

At the Kápolnapuszta Bivalyrezervátum, you can explore the grounds along a 1.5-kilometre walking trail with rest areas and viewpoints. During opening hours, guests can pet the tame animals every day. The water buffalo festival is held at the reserve every year in May or June; the exact date may vary. If you would like to combine your visit with the festival, check the dates for the relevant year. This way, both the seasonal event and opening hours can be part of your plans.

Spring blossoms and water experiences

In spring, the Azáleás-völgy in the Alsóerdő forest of Zalaegerszeg offers a special sight for day-trippers. Also in Zalaegerszeg, AquaCity Vízicsúszda- és Élménypark offers special attractions for visitors seeking relaxation, thanks to its impressive size. Gelse Termálvölgy offers a different selection of water activities: it has seven pools, including sports, family and thermal-water experience pools, as well as a children’s pool, and offers wellness services. The specific features of these facilities offer different highlights, from special attractions to a range of pool types.

Lake Hévíz is the world’s largest biologically active natural thermal lake. Advance booking is required for therapeutic treatments at the lake; you can book appointments at the therapy reception of the Festetics Bath House. If you are interested in treatment, keep this requirement in mind when planning your visit.

Castle, memorial park and castle ruins

The Festetics kastély in Keszthely is Hungary’s fourth-largest castle and has 101 rooms. These details give you a tangible impression of the scale of the building. At the Zalavári Történelmi Emlékpark, learning about the history of Zala County offers another way to connect with the region. The Millenniumi Emléképület and the Szent István kápolna can be visited free of charge during opening hours; check the current opening dates before your trip.

The ruins of Rezi vár also bring history together with a striking location: they stand atop a 418-metre-high dolomite ridge of Meleg-hegy, overlooking the Zalaszántó Basin. The castle rooms, memorial park and elevated setting thus offer different points of connection for your discoveries in Zala.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Keszthelyi, Lenti, Nagykanizsai, Pacsai, Zalaszentgróti, Zalakarosi, Hévízi, Zalaegerszegi, Letenyei.

To the main travel overview: Hungary.