Perched on a volcanic hill above the village of Szigliget, this ruined medieval castle offers one of the finest panoramic views over Lake Balaton. It's a rewarding short hike combining history, dramatic scenery and sweeping lake views.

The hill on which the castle stands was once an island in Lake Balaton, giving the site its unusual character and strategic past. Stone walls and the surviving towers stand against a backdrop of vineyard-covered slopes, and on clear days the views stretch far across the lake's turquoise waters. Summer evenings are especially popular for sunset watching, while spring and autumn bring quieter trails and softer light for photography.

How to get there

• Szigliget village — trail to the hilltop, approx. 30-40 minutes, easy to moderate difficulty
• Starting point possible from the village center or nearby vineyard parking areas

Practical information

• The castle is part of Hungary's National Castle Programme, with renovation planned from 2017/2018
• The oldest parts date from 1260-1262, built by Benedictine monks from Pannonhalma
• The castle was destroyed by fire after a lightning strike in 1697

A dramatic footnote to its history: a lightning strike ignited gunpowder stored in one of the towers, burning the castle down for good — it was never fully rebuilt afterward.