Pákozd rolls into 2026 with a mix of remembrance, culture, and countryside charm. The village is ready with events, cozy rural stays, everyday essentials like grocery stores, cafés, and pastry shops, plus plenty of spots for a good meal and a workout. Whether you’re coming for history, hiking, or a glass of local wine, Pákozd and its neighbors around Lake Velence have a lot lined up.
Outdoor Walk and Exhibition: “Those Forever Expected Home”
On January 10, 2026, at 10:30, the Pákozd Military Memorial Park (Katonai Emlékpark Pákozd) hosts “Kiket örökké hazavárnak” (Those Forever Expected Home), an experience-led outdoor walk, exhibition, and talks. The program is a collective remembrance of the tragic events at the Don Bend 83 years ago, where nearly 130,000 Hungarian soldiers were killed or went missing. Participation is free. At the end of the walk, everyone is invited for hot tea at the café. Due to the sensitive nature and content, the program is not recommended for children under 10. Location: Pákozd.
Don Bend Memorial Evening
On January 12, 2026, at 18:00, a commemoration, wreath-laying, and memorial fire lighting will take place at the Don Bend Memorial Chapel to mark the 83rd anniversary of the Uriv breakthrough. The tribute honors soldiers who died heroically, suffered captivity, or survived the 1942–43 battles along the Don, as well as their families. Location: Pákozd.
January Picks at a Glance
– January 10, 2026, 10:30: “Kiket örökké hazavárnak” outdoor walk, exhibition, and talks, Pákozd.
– January 12, 2026, 18:00: Commemoration, wreath-laying, and memorial fire at the Don Bend Memorial Chapel, Pákozd.
Gánt: The Pearl of the Vértes
Hidden in a charming nook on the southern edge of the Vértes Mountains lies Gánt, a small German-heritage village known as the Pearl of the Vértes. Encircled by hills and blessed with pristine air, it’s a beloved destination within the Vértes Landscape Protection Area. The region’s rich, diverse wildlife, rare flora and fauna, striking geology, and cinematic scenery make it unforgettable for hikers and anyone seeking a peaceful escape. The local tourist house has been running forest schools and summer craft and environmental camps since 1995—ideal for those who want to soak in nature and pair the wonder with a bit of science.
Eat, Drink, and Settle In
Hearty home-style flavors, game specialties, a wide drinks list, and a friendly, family-run vibe await at a local restaurant that can seat up to 200 guests across its cozy rooms and covered beer garden. It’s open year-round with fair prices and a warm welcome.
AtriumAgárd: On the Shore of Lake Velence
Just a 30-minute drive from Budapest, AtriumAgárd sits right on the Lake Velence waterfront in a quiet garden quarter of Agárd. The Mediterranean-style building, serene garden, and lakeside vibe create an ideal spot for downtime, fun, or team sessions. From autumn to spring, it’s an exclusive venue for trainings, events, and celebrations with family or friends, with polished, exciting dining. In summer, individuals and families can come experience the AtriumAgárd mood for themselves.
Stylish Stays in Székesfehérvár
In the center of Székesfehérvár, a modern four-star hotel offers 86 sharp, soothing rooms in a lakeside setting. Clean lines, understated elegance, and carefully curated ambiance set the tone, while a generous breakfast concept aims to exceed expectations. With refined interiors and high-level services, comfort is covered from check-in to checkout.
Agárd Guesthouse Comforts
A few minutes by car or bike from Lake Velence and near the Agárd Thermal Bath and Spa, this guesthouse promises friendly rooms, attentive staff, clean air, and atmospheric surroundings—perfect for rest and recharge.
Historic Touch at Castrum Hotel, Székesfehérvár
Castrum Hotel**** Székesfehérvár sits at the edge of the historic old town, 300 yards from the baroque main street, putting top sights within an easy stroll. With a wide range of services, it’s a strong pick for business travelers, tourists, and big families alike.
Catherine’s Cottages in the Vineyards
On the south-facing slopes of the Vértes, about an hour’s drive from Budapest, Catherine’s Cottages offers a private hideaway among the vineyards. It’s a polished, popular spot with guesthouses for downtime, and a go-to for companies planning strategy, team-building, training, and networking.
Dreher Cellar Revival in Tordas
In Tordas, guests are welcomed into the old Dreher estate cellar, now a refurbished stone building imagined as a place to drink good wines, meet good friends, snack well, and, if a bottle wins you over, take it home.
Retreat House in Iszkaszentgyörgy
At the eastern foot of the Bakony, in Iszkaszentgyörgy, the Diocese of Székesfehérvár runs a retreat house. It hosts retreats, courses, trainings, catechism camps, class trips, and family camps in a homely setting.
Gánt–Kőhányás: Nature and History
At the foot of the Vértes, Gánt–Kőhányás blends natural calm with a sense of history. Dense forests and green meadows wrap the area, drawing nature lovers, hikers, and anyone seeking a quiet time-out from daily noise.
Wine Trails of Pákozd
At the foot of the Velence Hills, a family winery founded in 1994 welcomes wine lovers to spend a few hours in a homely cellar tasting handcrafted bottles. Another Pákozd estate spans 54 acres on the south slope of Meleg Hill (Meleg-hegy), on the lake’s north shore. The volcanic hill and Lake Velence shape a special microclimate that lifts Pákozd wines. Both offer cellar tours and tastings for individuals and groups alike.
Dining in the Village
Ingókő Restaurant in the center of Pákozd is open year-round with a renewing menu, top-notch ingredients, traditional dishes, and standout specials. Alongside an à la carte lineup, Monday to Friday brings a choice of two two-course set menus. The team hosts weddings, graduations, birthdays, wakes, and company or friends’ events. The atmospheric dining room, an 80-guest event hall, and a seasonal garden are ready when you are.
Note
Organizers reserve the right to change dates and programs.
