Hidden among the green hills of the Balaton Uplands, between the tiny villages of Barnag and Pécsely, lie the impressive ruins of the Gothic Zádorvár castle, also known as Himfy Castle. This site carries traces of history stretching back to the Neolithic era, alongside the medieval land disputes that shaped its walls.

The castle sits atop Derék Hill (also called Zádor Hill) at 363 metres, surrounded by the forests and ancient juniper groves of the Balaton Uplands National Park. From the southern wall, a striking view opens toward Lake Balaton, while nearby the Séd Spring (also known as Zádor Well) offers clear, abundant water reached via a steep forest staircase. In summer, scouts and long-distance hikers often pitch camp on the small clearing beside the ruins.

How to get there

• From Pécsely — marked trail, about one hour climb, moderate difficulty
• From Barnag — accessible even by car, through the scenic forests and old juniper stands of the national park

Practical information

• Listed as a protected monument since 1958
• Inner courtyard measures roughly 55 x 60 metres
• Remains include a chapel with an apse, a gate tower, and a strong corner tower

Legend has it that after King Matthias's death, Hussite mercenaries led by a former monk from Tihany briefly occupied the castle before being defeated by the captain of nearby Nagyvázsony Castle.