Today’s article is by regular contributor Graham.
In this post:
Movenpick Balaland, Lake Balaton, Hungary
Opened just over twelve months ago, the 5 star Movenpick Balaland is situated on the southern shores of Lake Balaton which is situated eighty miles from Budapest. There is a frequent and relatively inexpensive train service from Budapest to Szántód which is near to this exciting new hotel. From Budapest airport the hotel can be reached in just over an hour via the motorway.
The hotel is themed around the Jules Verne book Around The World in Eighty Days, as you might expect the hotel is designed for families though the idyllic location and spa facilities at the hotel lead itself to couples who might be looking for rest and relaxation.
Lake Balaton is the largest lake in Central Europe, with many sights on its shores, including the historic village of Tihany, the spa resort of Balatonfüred, and Festetics Palace at Keszthely.
Arrival at the hotel
I arrived at the hotel just before midnight and was greeted with a warm welcome. The gated complex has a free underground car park with a lift to reception and the accommodation. The Caribbean-Colonial designed hotel looked impressive and inviting, even at dusk. As I had missed my evening meal a copious platter of fresh meats, cheese and salad was sent to my room.
The Rooms
The 109 rooms range from Superior Rooms with either a park or lake view to Junior Suites and Deluxe Suites.
My Superior Room with a lake view came with a mini kitchen with a microwave, which could be handy for young families. I was impressed with the wardrobe, which had good hanging space, a point that many new hotels fail to think about. The television has all the usual European channels, the fast Wi-Fi was excellent, brilliant air conditioning, the fridge a bonus considering that temperatures can exceed 30c in the summer whilst the Nespresso coffee machine was ideal for a late-night coffee.
Waking up in the morning to stunning views over Lake Balaton from my room was the perfect start to the day as the early morning sun shone brightly over the lake.
The Bathroom
The well-equipped modern bathroom has a powerful walk-in rain shower, plenty of big, fluffy towels, and toiletries. It was pleasing to find that the vanity mirror was placed at the right level.
The Spa
The hotel features three saunas, a well-equipped gym, and treatment rooms. The spa’s top floor provides spectacular views over Lake Balaton. Having a sauna while looking out over the lake was a memorable moment that felt wonderful and almost unique.
The restaurant
The buffet-style restaurant takes guests on a culinary journey around the world, offering cuisine from different countries. During my stay, I sampled food from Asia, Italy, France, and England on different themed evenings. The chef provided live cooking with meat and fish options. The fresh salmon he cooked for me was some of the best I have tasted.
There is also a separate section in the restaurant for younger members of the family presented on low level shelving.
Family Park
Alongside the hotel is the Family Park, which has indoor and outdoor pools and whirlpools. There is also a pizza restaurant and miniature train, as well as a quieter area with sunbeds on the lawn overlooking the lake.
Conclusion
A first class resort set in a beautiful location that has all the facilities you would expect from a 5 star property that is a haven not just for families but couples and individuals too. There are plenty of areas to relax and find peace and quiet whilst taking in the view of Lake Balaton. It mind sound a cliche but Movenpick Balaland really is an undiscovered gem.
