When planning a winter getaway, Hungary’s Békés County might not be the first destination that comes to mind. This often-overlooked region in the Southern Great Plain offers a rich mix of cozy activities, from steamy thermal baths to atmospheric castle tours. If you are wondering what to do in Békés in winter, this guide covers the best ways to experience the county’s unique charm when temperatures drop.
1. Soak in the Thermal Baths
One of the best things to do in Békés in winter is to escape the cold by diving into the region’s famous thermal waters. Békés County is home to numerous medicinal and leisure baths that welcome guests during the colder months, offering relaxation and health benefits.
In the county seat of Békéscsaba, the Árpád Thermal and Beach Bath is a historic complex open since 1922. Its indoor pools and medical bath section operate year-round, and some outdoor pools are partially covered for cold-weather use. The thermal water is certified as medicinal, and the on-site Jázmin Health Centre offers treatments such as salt therapy, mud packs, and underwater jet massage.
For a relaxed, local experience, the Borostyán Thermal Bath in the southern part of the county is a good option. It has been prepared for winter guests and is known for its laid-back atmosphere.
Other excellent winter-ready baths include the Liget Medical Bath in Gyomaendrőd, praised for its relaxing setting among century-old oak trees, and the Szent Klára Thermal Bath in Szarvas, which offers a range of pools and wellness services. Online thermal-bath portals list several baths in Békés County that welcome guests in winter.
2. Lace Up Your Skates
Winter in Békés brings outdoor fun as well. Ice skating is a beloved local pastime, and there are good facilities across the county.
In Békéscsaba, the Csaba Event Barn (Csabai Rendezvénypajta) hosts a covered real-ice rink during the winter season. It offers a friendly atmosphere, on-site skate rental, and sharpening services.
The city also hosts special winter events. The “Night of Ice Rinks” (Jégpályák éjszakája) is a nationwide celebration that brings thousands of people onto the ice. In Békéscsaba, the event features music, ice games, and a lively party atmosphere.
For a more scenic skate, head to Gyula. The boating lake next to the medieval castle is a popular spot that can transform into a natural ice rink during cold winters.
3. Explore Castles and Culture
Békés County boasts a rich history, and winter is a wonderful time to explore its castles and cultural sites without the summer crowds.
The crown jewel is the Gyula Castle, a remarkably well-preserved Gothic brick fortress built between 1403 and 1445. It is one of the few surviving plain-land castles of its kind in Central Europe. During the winter season, the town of Gyula also organizes Winter City Walks. These guided tours led by a local expert take you through the historic downtown, covering the castle, the Castle Spa, the Almásy Mansion, and other key landmarks.
For a truly atmospheric experience, book a Candlelit Tour of the Almásy Castle in Gyula. This guided tour explores the castle’s cellars, servants’ staircase, and stately rooms under the glow of candlelight. Rotating themes cover topics such as Empress Sisi’s visit and 19th-century fashion, and each tour concludes with a tasting of local delicacies. Advance registration is required, and spots are limited.
4. Discover Local Museums
When the weather outside is cold, Békés County’s museums offer a warm and fascinating refuge. In Békéscsaba, the Mihály Munkácsy Museum is the county’s premier museum, founded in 1899. It is dedicated to the famous painter Mihály Munkácsy and also houses local historical and archaeological exhibits.
In the town of Békés, the Jantyik Mátyás Museum welcomes visitors on a winter schedule and offers a glimpse into local history and culture.
For something a bit different, consider a visit to a local tájház (folk house) or a specialized workshop. The region has a strong tradition of crafts, and you may find workshops for traditional bread-making or other local skills, which make for a unique and hands-on winter activity.
5. Enjoy the Winter Nature
Békés County has its own quiet winter beauty. The Wenckheim Castle Park in Szabadkígyós is a stunning 25-hectare English-style park. The park remains accessible in winter, and a walk here, with trees coated in frost, is a peaceful and romantic experience.
The Körös-Maros National Park is another destination for nature lovers. Some activities may be limited in winter, but the landscape takes on a stark, serene beauty that is perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.
6. Join a Local Winter Event
Békés County has a lively calendar of winter events that offer a taste of local culture. During the winter season, look out for the Week of Hungarian Culture in Békéscsaba, which features a series of programs including concerts, literary evenings, and historical lectures.
The Békés County Library in Békéscsaba traditionally hosts a Farsang (Carnival) mask-making workshop, a fun and creative afternoon for both children and adults. If your visit coincides with the Gyula Honey and Gingerbread Festival, you can enjoy a sweet culinary event celebrating local beekeeping and gastronomy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Békés in Winter
Is Békés County worth visiting in winter?
Absolutely. Békés County offers a unique winter experience that combines relaxing thermal baths, cultural activities such as castle tours and museum visits, and seasonal fun including ice skating. It is a quieter, more authentic side of Hungary that works well for a cozy winter break.
What is the weather like in Békés in winter?
Winter in Békés is cold, with average temperatures ranging from about 3°C to 5°C. Occasional snowfall is common, which adds to the winter atmosphere. Pack a heavy coat, warm clothing, a hat, scarf, and gloves.
Are the thermal baths open in winter?
Many thermal baths in Békés County welcome guests during the winter season. The Árpád Bath in Békéscsaba and the Borostyán Thermal Bath are two examples of baths prepared for winter guests. Check current availability before you travel.
Can you go ice skating in Békés?
Yes. The Csaba Event Barn in Békéscsaba offers a covered real-ice rink during the winter season. Natural ice rinks, such as the one by the castle in Gyula, may also form during colder spells.
What are the best indoor activities in Békés in winter?
The best indoor activities include visiting the thermal baths, exploring museums such as the Munkácsy Museum in Békéscsaba, taking a candlelit tour of the Almásy Castle, and participating in local workshops and cultural events at the Békés County Library.
Conclusion
Békés County offers a magical winter through healing thermal waters, candlelit castles, local museums, and joyful ice skating. For travelers looking for an authentic and affordable winter escape in Hungary, this guide should help you plan what to do in Békés in winter. Check current details with local organizers before your trip, and enjoy the quiet charm of Hungary’s Southern Great Plain.
Photo: Mister No, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
