A little history
The history of Zalaszentgrót stretches back many centuries, with its first known written record dating from 1247. Following the Hungarian conquest of the Carpathian Basin, the settlement and the surrounding area belonged to the Türje clan, and a castle was already standing here by the end of the 13th century.
A particularly remarkable chapter in the town’s history is connected to the Second World War. Between 1939 and 1945, Zalaszentgrót was home to a significant camp for Polish refugees. Local residents provided many of them with help, safety and, for a time, a new home.
Zalaszentgrót was granted town status in 1984. Over the past decades, its historic centre has been renewed, several heritage buildings have been restored, and the town’s thermal bath opened in 2001.
What to see in Zalaszentgrót
Szent Gróth Thermal Bath
One of the town’s most popular places to relax and unwind. Set among the gentle hills of Zala, the thermal bath is a lovely choice after an active day of exploring – or simply whenever you feel like slowing down and recharging. Its outdoor setting and the surrounding countryside create a particularly peaceful atmosphere.
Batthyány Castle
One of Zalaszentgrót’s most important historic buildings. The castle and its surroundings recall the town’s aristocratic past and are well worth including in a walk around Zalaszentgrót.
The historic stone bridge of Zalaszentgrót
The old stone bridge is one of the town’s best-known monuments and one of the distinctive historic bridges of Zala County. More than simply an architectural landmark, it has become one of the symbols of Zalaszentgrót.
Kisszentgrót Ruined Tower
Dating back to the 15th century, the ruined tower is one of the town’s most atmospheric historic landmarks. Its centuries-old walls create a striking contrast with the gentle landscape of the Zala countryside.
Saint Emeric Church
One of the defining buildings in the centre of Zalaszentgrót. Among its most important artistic treasures is the late-medieval Madonna of Szentgrót, one of the town’s most valuable historic works of art.
Historical Memorial Park and Polish memorials
The story of the Polish refugees who found shelter in Zalaszentgrót remains an important part of the town’s history. At several locations around the town, you can discover memorials recalling the shared Hungarian–Polish past.
Explore Zala by bike and on foot
If you enjoy an active holiday, the surrounding countryside is well worth exploring by bike or on foot. The valley of the Zala River, rolling vineyards, traditional wine cellars and small villages reveal a completely different side of the region from the one you would see from a car.
You do not always need a particular destination either. Around Zalaszentgrót, the journey itself can be part of the experience.
Local wines, cellars and flavours of Zala
Wine growing and winemaking have a long tradition on the hills surrounding the town. After a day of exploring, stop at a local wine cellar or restaurant, taste wines from the region and discover some of the traditional flavours of Zala.
Festivals and local events
From time to time, the peaceful atmosphere of Zalaszentgrót gives way to festivals, concerts, markets and cultural events. If your visit happens to coincide with one of them, it is well worth joining in. Local events are a wonderful way to experience the authentic character of Zala and get a little closer to the people who live here.
And at the end of the day…
…you don’t have far to go.
Bon Villa in Zalaszentgrót is a comfortable base for discovering the town and the surrounding countryside. Start your morning with a hike, a bike ride or a visit to the thermal bath, spend the afternoon exploring the hills and wine cellars of Zala, then return in the evening to the peaceful atmosphere of Bon Villa.
Discover Zalaszentgrót – slow down, explore the countryside and enjoy the quieter side of Zala!
