Nestled in the heart of Gyöngyös at 10 Fő Square (Fő tér 10), the Vachott Sándor City Library (Vachott Sándor Városi Könyvtár) is more than just a home for books. Starting in autumn 2025, it transforms into the city’s vibrant cultural hub, hosting a colorful calendar of events, creative workshops, and social clubs for every age and interest. Whether you’re a passionate reader, a curious health enthusiast, or a craft lover, something is always happening behind its grand walls.
Get Involved: Clubs and Workshops for Everyone
Beginning every October, the library runs several popular clubs and ongoing workshops at its Central Branch. The “Baby Reading” (Babaolvasó) club is a big hit with new parents who want to introduce their little ones to the joys of books. The Health Club draws crowds looking for the latest wellness tips. The “Smart Granny” (Okos Nagyi) club welcomes tech-curious seniors, and the “Knitting” (Gombolyító) club brings together crafters for cozy afternoons with yarn. There’s also the Weekly Novella Readers’ Club and regular children’s slide shows at the branch library—perfect for families looking to spend quality time together.
But the library is more than just a venue for clubs—it’s an information and community center equipped with all the technology and resources needed for 21st-century life. Its aim? To be Gyöngyös’s leading hub for public education, culture, and social life.
Wine Culture and Gastronomy in Gyöngyös
Gyöngyös is not just about books—it’s a paradise for wine lovers! The region boasts modern guesthouses connected to family wineries, producing outstanding white and robust red wines using traditional, handcrafted methods. Tastings are enriched with interactive talks that can last up to two hours, often including hands-on tours of the vineyard or strolls through the historic Farkasmály wine cellar row (Farkasmály pincesor), a highlight for any visitor.
It’s not only about sipping wine—wineries offer team-building days where you can roll up your sleeves in the vineyard or the cellar. Tastings often include handmade charcuterie, but if that’s too light a bite, full wine dinners can be booked in advance. Staying overnight is easy—many wineries feature rooms or full apartments, and the options are stylish, modern, and comfortable.
Accommodations for Every Taste and Budget
The small hotels and inns around Gyöngyös strike a balance between modern chic and the warm, welcoming touch visitors love. You’ll find everything from standard double rooms and family suites to apartments and accessible rooms for guests with disabilities. Amenities rival those of bigger cities—think fitness centers, saunas, hot tubs, and indulgent massage programs.
If you’re after mountain air and adventure, the 4-star Mátra Camping offers several types of accommodation in the rolling hills, all surrounded by the dreamy vistas of the region. The Panoráma Guesthouse (Panoráma Vendégház), set between Mátrafüred and Mátraháza, impresses guests with stunning views, fresh climate, and incredibly spacious rooms—perfect for couples or families of up to five.
For lakeside relaxation, the Sástó Hotel (Sástó Hotel***) is perched between Mátraháza and Mátrafüred on the edge of Lake Sás (Sás-tó). With mountain panoramas from every window and endless recreational options, relaxation and adventure go hand in hand.
The Legendary Farkasmály Cellar Row
Just 1.2 miles from central Gyöngyös, along the Farkasmály cellar row (Farkasmály pincesor), you are literally walking through history. The cellars, some dug into volcanic ash back in the early 1700s, make up Central and Eastern Europe’s largest hand-carved wine cellar complex. Wandering among the romantic press houses, breathing in crisp mountain air, and sampling the best Mátra wines—it’s an experience that captures the town’s festive spirit.
Every summer, historic Farkasmály hosts the traditional Ivó Day cellar crawl, and most wineries open grill terraces in warmer weather, creating a unique blend of gastronomy and local tradition.
Family Wineries and Unforgettable Flavors
Unique family wineries dot the region, like the Dudás family, who combine generations of expertise in a single cellar. Their whites are fragrant with hints of volcanic soil, while their reds are boldly structured. Small bites paired with wines make for memorable tastings, or opt for a full private wine dinner prepared just for you and your group.
One winery is set in a 1,360-square-foot vaulted cellar built in the late 1800s, just minutes from the city center—above it, a stately 1920s house completes the historic charm.
Eat Like a Local: Diverse Culinary Options
Foodies rejoice! Gyöngyös serves up everything from classic Hungarian cuisine at Golden Cellar Inn (Aranypince Vendéglő), just a short stroll from the main square, to wellness- and vegetarian-friendly choices. Another standout, Bori Mami, centers its dining experience on intimacy and rich flavors—a celebration of homey, caring cuisine with a gourmet twist.
Kékes, the ever-popular dining spot, owes its charm to genuine hospitality and an unbeatable kitchen. Expect elegant, contemporary interiors and versatile spaces perfect for both small gatherings and grand occasions. The seasonal grill terrace is not to be missed.
The organizers reserve the right to adjust event dates or programs—so always double-check before you go!
Gyöngyös seamlessly blends literature, wine, gastronomy, and nature for an unforgettable cultural getaway. Whether you’re tasting Olaszrizling from Gloria Sublimis Wine Order (Gloria Sublimis Borrend) or relaxing lakeside after a scenic hike, you’ll find local hospitality at every turn—and a good reason to keep coming back.
