These Campsites and Glampsites in Hungary Are Better Than Any Hotel

In the 1820s, a well-digger discovered the sulphur-rich thermal springs in what is now Harkány town in southwestern Hungary near the Drava River. His discovery was a catalyst for the evolution of the area into a major spa destination, and Termál (or Thermal) Camping stands just a few minutes’ walk from the spa complex. Nudging the edge of town, the simple campsite is one part of a 12-acre (5ha) holiday complex. Pitches occupy shady wooded groves dotted with fireplaces and barbecue pits, and campers can use the on-site restaurant and lounge.

On the edge of Bükfürdő village, in far western Hungary near Szombathely, the tree-dotted Romantik enclave is bordered on two sides by farmers’ fields and a quiet country road. It’s a straightforward, unassuming place with a small café-restaurant and good-sized swimming pool along with a solarium and a tiny children’s playground. There are plenty of shady pitches, plus space for a few caravans and motorhomes, while “lazy” campers can rent mobile homes, rooms and one bungalow, too.

You’d hardly know the Hungarian capital is just 5km (3mi) away in this pocket of forested countryside bordering the western suburbs. It’s a fairly large, almost back-to-nature, site with abundant shady trees and screening shrubbery. Popular with families and cycling groups, you’ll likely share it with a few motorhomes and caravans. The hilly hinterland is ideal for walks and cycling – several rocky bluffs poke above the greenery – and the chairlift terminus for the historic castle-like tower on János Hill is nearby.

Right next to the stunning Bükk National Park – a great place to go hiking in Hungary – this charming hotel and glampsite is the perfect relaxing getaway with a number of accommodation options to suit all tastes. Tastefully decorated yurts, tents, bungalows and more await, each with a unique and cosy style. The friendly staff, welcoming atmosphere and personal touches make this beautiful site a true home from home, while nearby attractions such as Eger and Palóc Country mean there’s plenty to see and do once you’ve tired of relaxing in the outdoor pool and enjoying the home-cooked meals.

Six simply furnished yurts with space for up to eight people each await at this “yurtotel” north of Budapest. Home comforts come in the form of heating, electricity and insulated flooring, but the natural surroundings and rustic vibe keep the spirit of camping alive. Fall asleep under the stars and wake up with the sun; glamping at Dobogókő takes you right back to nature.

Eger is one of Hungary’s most well-known wine regions – producing dry red blend Egri Bikavér – and the Tulipán campsite sits right in the middle of the action. The Valley of the Beautiful Women is the place to be for wine tastings and vineyard visits, and it’s here the campsite is found. Open in the warmer months, there’s space for tents and campervans, while amenities include solar-powered hot water, washing facilities and a communal kitchen.

In southern Hungary, not far from Szeged, this boutique accommodation offers a glamping classic: yurts, decked with mod cons. Luxury is the key word here – each yurt has a jacuzzi, rain shower, TV, underfloor heating and more. Stylish, natural decorations provide a welcoming interior, while a private terrace allows for views over the grounds. There’s plenty to do here, too: many come for the horse riding, but you can also book archery, bike rides or, if you can stomach it, a parachute jump.

This ecolodge in southern Hungary offers more than just a place to rest your head. Set in the middle of peaceful natural surroundings, next to a forest and close to a number of lakes and rivers, there’s a glamping space plus a treehouse and small camping area. Come for the beautiful accommodation, stay for the welcoming atmosphere: Hunza Ecolodge aims to work with nature, providing fresh organic food for guests and encouraging a community atmosphere thanks to a shared terrace – the perfect place for a sundowner during summer.

Camp on the banks of the largest lake in central Europe at this well-equipped campsite on the southern shores of Lake Balaton. Eateries, sports facilities, shops, a currency exchange point and more make up the on-site amenities, while the proximity to Siófok, one of the most popular towns in the region, means there’s plenty to enjoy off-site, too.

On the northern shores of Lake Balaton, this campsite offers more than just a place to pitch your tent – although it does a good job at providing that, too. Set in natural surroundings, there’s space for campervans, caravans and tents, and the area is popular with all age groups. A wellness space, including a jacuzzi, sauna and outdoor pool, make this campsite both a relaxing place to stay and excellent value for money.

Hungary is known for its thermal baths, so for the ultimate ease of access, why not camp on site? The Bogács Thermal Bath is home to nine pools (six thermal), and its sulphurous thermal water is said to be beneficial for a number of health issues. The campsite has 250 pitches, and the cost of camping includes entry to the baths.

Amar Grover contributed additional reporting to this article.