Tihany, Hungary
Did you know that lavender is grown in Hungary, much like in Provence? If you wish to witness sprawling lavender fields and immerse yourself in their calming fragrance, a visit to Tihany is a must. Tihany is a captivating village situated on a peninsula of the same name on the northern shore of Lake Balaton in Hungary. This unique area is a protected nature reserve, renowned for its rich biodiversity, fascinating geological formations, and remarkable historical monuments. The most iconic landmark on the peninsula is the magnificent Baroque abbey of Tihany, founded in 1055, whose two prominent towers have become a timeless symbol of the town.
The peninsula itself is a result of volcanic activity, with remnants of ancient geysers and crater lakes creating a unique and dramatic landscape. This geological heritage contributes to the area's special microclimate, which is perfect for cultivating lavender. It offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a tranquil lakeside atmosphere.
Lavender fields in Tihany
To reach Tihany, we took road 71 and then turned onto a local road leading to the peninsula. After driving for just a few kilometers, we were greeted by vast lavender fields (L; GPS: 46.919667, 17.866105) stretching out on the left side of the road. You can easily park your car at the side road and take a moment to capture stunning photographs or simply enjoy a closer look at this aromatic and beautiful plant.
Tihany's history with lavender dates back to the 1920s when it was first planted here. The peak flowering season for lavender is typically in June and July, transforming the hills into a vibrant purple spectacle. This is the best time to visit to fully appreciate the sight and scent of the fields. The annual Lavender Festival celebrates this unique heritage, offering visitors a chance to participate in harvesting and buy products directly from local farmers.
Parking in Tihany
We reach the village of Tihany and park at the entrance in the parking lot "Parkoló Tihany" (1; GPS: 46.915871, 17.884592). Parking is paid, the machine accepts both coins and banknotes. If, however, it turned out that there are no parking spaces, park the car at the local lake (by the way, it is a crater lake, a remnant of the volcano from millions of years) in the parking lot next to Levendula-ház buildings (2; GPS: 46.908560, 17.888104).
If you live on the other side of Lake Balaton (for example in Siófok), you can have an even more interesting trip by sailing to Tihany on ship — beautiful views of the Balaton guaranteed.
The Tihany Attractions (Tihany látnivalók)
After leaving the parking lot we follow the street Batthyány utca towards the abbey. Along the way, we pass a lot of shops with local products (including lavender and ubiquitous paprika), as well as restaurants. The roofs of many buildings are traditionally covered with reeds growing at Lake Balaton. Everything resembles a living museum. The village is indeed attractive, because we see organized groups of tourists from the Far East, and their presence is always a good indicator of the popularity of the place.
The Benedictine abbey itself (A; GPS: 46.913849, 17.889558) is located on a slope, from which we get beautiful views of the green water of Balaton and the surrounding area. Even the Turks were unable to get this building turned into a fortress. The abbey has a church, museum and several souvenir shops. The buildings impress with their dimensions and architectural style.
The abbey’s founding charter from 1055 is a priceless document, notable for containing the first written words in the Hungarian language. The abbey church is a masterpiece of Baroque art, with a stunning gold-plated main altar and intricate frescoes covering the ceiling. Visitors can admire the richly decorated crypt where King Andrew I, the founder of the abbey, is buried, making it a place of both religious and national importance.
After visiting the abbey, we walk the Pisky Promenade, making a loop that leads us back to the parking lot. On the right, we pass the impressive hill Via Dolorosa (B; GPS: 46.916247, 17.887391) as well as the museum of dolls (Babamúzeum) located in one of the buildings with traditional architecture (C; GPS: 46.915872, 17.887043).
Tihany can also be strolled in a mini-train (Lokomotív kisvonat). It stops near the parking lot where we parked the car (D; GPS: 46.915466, 17.885699).
Gastronomy in Tihany
Tihany's culinary scene is a delightful part of the visitor experience, offering a taste of authentic Hungarian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. The village's restaurants and cafes provide a cozy atmosphere to enjoy a meal, with many offering terraces that provide beautiful views of Lake Balaton.
As you are right by Lake Balaton, trying fresh fish is a must. A popular local delicacy is grilled fish, often served with a side of crispy potatoes. Of course, you can't miss out on classic Hungarian dishes like hearty goulash, chicken paprikash, or lángos (fried flatbread). The local paprika is used in many dishes, giving them a distinct and vibrant flavor. Tihany is also part of the Balaton wine region, so be sure to sample some of the excellent local wines, especially the light, crisp white wines that pair perfectly with the summer weather and lakeside setting.
The shops you pass on the way to the abbey are also a great place to buy local products. In addition to lavender souvenirs, you can purchase local honey, jams, and traditional paprika products, making for delicious gifts or snacks for your journey. Tihany’s gastronomy is a wonderful complement to its natural and cultural attractions, offering a truly immersive experience.
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