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Everyday Life in Hungary

Did you know Hungary is the Home of Thermal Spas?

Hungary maybe a landlocked country but it has plenty of thermal water springs to indulge yourself in.

More than 1,300 natural springs cover the country with the opportunity to experience them all year round.

The natural springs are rich in dissolved minerals known for their incredible healing powers and it’s also a wonderful way to spend a luxurious few hours. Some are sulfurous-smelling, some are salty, and some have other special properties, it varies depending on where you are in the country.

Spa culture has been a part of the Hungarian lifestyle for hundreds of years, introduced by the Romans, it is considered as part of their balanced everyday life. Outdoor spas, when the weather is icy cold but the water is steaming hot are an unforgettable experience.

Budapest

Budapest the capital, is home to 123 thermal spas, arguably the most beautiful is Gellért Fürdő, built in 1918 with stunning architectural features, frescoed ceilings, colourful tiled mosaics, beautifully carved stone columns and striking statues. Outdoors there is a magnificent wave pool very much loved by the Hungarians and visiting tourists.

Hévíz Lake 

Hévíz Lake, near the western end of Lake Balaton has become known over the centuries for the curative properties of its naturally warm spring waters. They are full of minerals such as calcium and magnesium and are slightly radioactive making them ideal for the treatment of rheumatism and other ailments. It is the largest thermal lake in the world which is available to bathe in. The flow of water is very strong and the water in the lake is completely replenished every 72 hours.

Rural Spa – Tamási

The main tourist attraction of Tamási is the beautiful thermal spa and open air bath. It is located 30 kilometres east of Lake Balaton and is our local spa which we visit regularly. The excellent natural environment, and the water quality have made Tamási known internationally as an effective curing spa. The thermal water is 52 Celsius warm and very healthy. The special health-improving quality of the water is due to its high sodium, calcium and potassium concentration.

Hungary’s spas and their treatments will leave you refreshed, relaxed, re-energised, and looking as good as you feel. They are well worth a visit.

This was my first visit to one of Hungary’s famous thermal spas, the review appeared on Trip Advisor, this is what I said:

Our first experience of a Thermal Spa in Hungary and it was truly lovely. The spa was easy to find on the outskirts of Tamási and offered free car parking. Inside the whole building was clean light and airy with plants everywhere. Numerous different pools with varying water temperatures added lots of fun. The spiral tube slide, the children’s pool, the jacuzzi were all immaculately clean with lifeguards watching each area. For an additional cost, you could take advantage of the sauna or have a massage. Upstairs was the thermal water pool and access to outside to sunbathe if required. A small but well-stocked cafe was also on this floor. The lockers provided were easy to use with showers, toilets and hairdryers if required. We chose a time that was not busy and spent around 3 hours there. We paid 5,800 HUF about £16 English pounds for 3 of us. Well worth it and recommended for winter or summer fun. Date of experience: April 2018

I would love to hear your personal experiences of Hungarian spas and how they have helped you with any health issues.

By Sue

I am an English Ex-Pat living in Hungary with my wonderful husband and 19 year old son. You can find me frequently writing, reading and taking photographs. We live in a beautiful small rural village surrounded by forests and lakes always appreciating the beauty around us. Life is good.

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