Szépkilátó and Roman Spring, Balatongyörök

Szépkilátó, a natural viewpoint on a small hill (140 m) at the northeastern end of Balatongyörök, right next to Road 71 is easily accessible even for those challenged by climbing to lookout towers typically at high vantage points.

On the left you can see the volcanic buttes of Tapolca Basin, such as Badacsony, Szent György Hill, Csobánc, Gulács, Tóti-hegy and Haláp surrounding the eastern part of the bay and the castle of Szigliget in the foreground. Just in front the vast surface of the lake dominates the view. There is an easy access from the parking lot, further facilities include benches, tables, diners as well as toilets.

Prince Tasziló Festetics' wife Lady Mary Victoria Douglas-Hamilton was also happy to take a leisurely carriage ride from their castle in Keszthely to this place. She contributed to the beauty of the viewpoint by planting black pines on the top of the hill. The hill was called Chapel Hill formerly referring to a chapel and a Dominican monastery that used to sit there. Its current name was given by statesman Károly Eötvös in 1855 inspired by the view from the hill. A quote by him on a wooden board commemorates his experience when arriving here.

The name of Roman Spring down the stairs at the bottom of the hill refers to its ancient Roman origin, as a villa and a bath used to stand here. Both the villa rustica and the bath was supplied with water by the spring. The ruins lie beneath the Youth Campsite of Györök, therefore they are not open to the public. The Roman Spring and its environment was renovated in 2001 and today shady benches and a fire pit help to lengthen your stay.  A chunk of rock in the pool at the spring with a handrail allows for a barefoot walk in the refreshing water and a massage by stones at the bottom.

Szépkilátó has been home to the Roman Fest for years commemorating ancient heritage including the culture of wine.

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