Castle Inn of Ó-Ebergény

This Baroque castle hotel is situated in a small and quiet village called Vasszécsény at a distance of 12 km from Szombathely. The name of the castle comes from the last owner, the Ebergényi family who lived here from the 1700`s until the Second World War. Already in the middle ages, making use of the natural protection offered by the Gyöngyös stream, an important fortress stood at the site of the castle. In the early part of the 16th century, the King gave this property to the Batthyány family and then later on it was the home of other high-class families (Török, Festetics, Schilson) well known from history books. After 1945, similarly to the other castles in Hungary, Ó-Ebergényi Castle had been utilised without the proper care of an appropriate owner, in a way unworthy of its name. This listed building representing a priceless theoretical value functioned as a warehouse, stable and barn until in 1983 the rehabilitation of the building could finally commence. After continuous renovation and an expansion of the services, today it is run as a full service hotel. Woodlands on nearly 3 hectares around the castle and the beautiful surroundings offer unique opportunities for our guests who come here for a relaxing getaway. Nearby river Rába has a lot to offer to fishing enthusiasts. For those intending to make excursions, the historical and spa towns in the vicinity (Kőszeg, Sárvár, Bük, Vasvár, Szombathely) have unforgettable sites to visit. The Austro-Hungarian border is close, and this provides a possibility to see Hungary`s western neighbour or to ski in the Alps in winter. The nine cosy rooms with bathroom and lavatory in the attic of the castle offer a family atmosphere and have 2 to 4 beds with the possibility of setting up extra beds if needed, in addition to providing furnishings that meet the requirements of this age. It is our objective to equip all rooms with TV, minibar and telephone within the shortest time possible. The whole castle, except for the rooms, radiates a Baroque flair. This impression is enhanced by the thick (at some places 140 cm) walls and by the lights fitted on the walls or concealed, which illuminate the original columns and barrel vaults. The impressive restaurant and the bar which meets all requirements fit this environment perfectly. From a wide assortment of soft drinks and beers through bottled quality wines to good brands of whiskies and other quality drinks, we have an ample stock of beverages for everyone. In the restaurant we use home made flavours or a spicing requested by the guest, and we also prepare meals not featuring on the menu if the guest so wishes. The greatest pride of the castle is the 13 meter high Banquet Hall listed as an ancient monument and the chapel which is also decorated with frescoes. Although the restoration of these premises has not been fully completed yet, we hope that the new year`s eve ceremony at the end of 1998 can already be held in the Banquet Hall and in a short while the chapel may also be used for its original purpose. Until then, in the reception areas and in our marble rooms we offer space or if required full arrangements for family celebrations, and for the meeting of friends or company employees. The smaller function rooms are offered for the smooth organising of corporate conferences and refresher courses, while the reception area is excellent for arranging weddings and banquets for up to 120 people. Weather permitting, very exclusive receptions and parties can be held on the terrace, by the pool or under the plane-trees, which are almost as old as the castle. Our open-air pool of close to 160 m3 size and the associated terrace offer a unique opportunity to sun lovers. The mysterious underwater lighting is popular with night-time swimmers and also makes a party held by the pool unforgettable. The barbecue or goulash dinners we prepare are also made extremely impressive through a night-time party by the pool. The stable is available to all horse lovers from the beginner to the professional. From the first tries of those who get acquainted with horse riding now through lunging-rein riding lessons to cross-country riding, we offer numerous programmes adjusted to the guest`s wishes. We have our own carriage to participate in various events, to go for a ride or to have a full day programme outdoors with a picnic. Our well-kept gardens allow almost limitless possibilities for outdoor sports and games. We can make available shuttlecocks and rackets for badminton, net, swing-ball skittles, Frisbee, softball tennis and rubber ball. For those bringing a bike, we can provide a shelter, and we also envisage launching a rent-a-bike service as of spring. By previous appointment, we can make arrangements for an archery demonstration with target practice or organise skeet shooting.