Zalakaros

Zalakaros, a resort town located in the Nagykanizsa region of Zala County, Hungary, with a population that underestimates its importance as a tourist destination. This compact yet lively city, located in the southeastern region of the county between Keszthely and Nagykanizsa, has become a notable thermal spa destination, drawing people from around Europe and beyond.

Zalakaros’s history originates in 1254, when it was first referenced in historical documents as “Korus.” The village, originally occupied by Hungarian-speaking castle staff who had property, experienced an influx of foreign residents introduced by the wife of King Béla IV. This initial phase initiated a profound and varied cultural legacy that will influence the town’s identity for generations.

The 15th century saw the establishment of the settlement’s church in 1430, reflecting the community’s increasing significance. Nevertheless, the Turkish occupation era imposed considerable difficulties on Zalakaros. The community saw significant hardship when Turkish forces and soldiers from Kanizsa castle devastated local crops, resulting in a drastic reduction in the population.

Notwithstanding these problems, Zalakaros shown endurance and started its recovery in the 18th century, when it was acknowledged as a market town. Nonetheless, significant expansion in the town did not occur until the late 19th century. The desiccation of adjacent wetlands and the establishment of the Southern Railway were instrumental in catalyzing growth. The 1920s witnessed advancements with the initiation of interstate bus lines and the development of a local post office, improving connection and communication.

The post-World War II period experienced first emigration, as several inhabitants relocated to the industrialized city of Nagykanizsa. Nevertheless, the circumstances of Zalakaros were poised for a significant transformation. In 1962, a discovery was made that would alter the town’s course — thermal water was located under the surface. This finding resulted in the establishment of a spa in 1965, initiating Zalakaros’ evolution into a prominent health and wellness destination.

The evolution of Zalakaros into a spa town was not incidental. During 1969-70, ZALATERV, under the direction of Tamás Kiss, methodically devised detailed plans for the development and management of the settlement and recreation area. The Zalakaros Resort Development Committee was instrumental in supervising the systematic and swift advancement of the town, ensuring it could accommodate the increasing needs of tourists while preserving its allure and identity.

The town’s infrastructure persisted in expanding to accommodate its growing tourism sector. In 1984, Zalakaros was designated as a major municipality, acknowledging its increasing significance. In the late 1980s, advancements included the building of a new kindergarten and gas pipeline network in 1987, succeeded by the installation of a new school in 1990. These advancements not only improved the people’s quality of life but also became Zalakaros a more appealing location for tourists.

The collapse of the communist dictatorship in Hungary did not reduce Zalakaros’ attractiveness as a tourist destination. The hamlet was granted city status in 1997 due to its importance. The introduction of new spas in the vicinity posed a challenge, compelling Zalakaros to always adapt and enhance its offers to sustain its competitive advantage.

Currently, Zalakaros exemplifies the synergy of natural resources and purposeful development. The town’s thermal spa, sourcing water from a depth of 2,000 meters at a temperature of 96°C, is globally acclaimed for its distinctive composition. The medical water containing alkaline chloride and hydrogen carbonate is infused with iodine, bromine, sulfur, and fluorine, resulting in a unique combination in Europe. This remarkable water furthermore has potassium, sodium, magnesium, iron, manganese, metaboric acid, metasilicic acid, and free carbonic acid, providing an extensive array of medicinal advantages.

The therapeutic qualities of Zalakaros’ thermal waters have become it a desirable location for individuals seeking alleviation from several diseases. The spa’s treatments are notably efficacious for chronic gynecological disorders, periodontal conditions, musculoskeletal ailments including chronic inflammatory joint illnesses, surgical musculoskeletal injuries, and dermatological concerns. The extensive array of health advantages has greatly enhanced the spa’s attractiveness and the town’s tourist sector.

The prosperity of Zalakaros as a tourist attraction is reflected in its remarkable visitor numbers. In 2016, it registered 500,000 visitor nights, making it the 7th most popular destination in Hungary for commercial lodging. Of these, 119,000 nights were ascribed to international visitors, with Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic representing the primary source markets, providing 66,000, 27,000, and 15,000 guest nights, respectively.

Accessibility has been essential in Zalakaros’ success. The town is efficiently linked by road, with the primary north-south route 7522 acting as the major conduit to Galambok and Zalaapáti. Supplementary roads connect Zalakaros to Zalakomár, facilitating convenient access to main route 7 and the M7 motorway. The city’s bus station provides connections to important cities like Budapest, Hévíz, Keszthely, Marcali, Nagykanizsa, Veszprém, and Zalaegerszeg for individuals favoring public transit.