A slow, boozy bus tour of Hungary’s secret vineyards

A new hop-on, hop-off bus service, the 46° Balaton Borbusz, is making it easier for tourists to explore the numerous wineries near Balatonfüred, a popular spa town in Hungary. The bus, inspired by a vintage wine tram in South Africa, offers day trips to local vineyards, providing access to previously hard-to-reach, often family-run, wineries. This initiative aims to draw visitors beyond Budapest and offer a unique insight into Hungary’s wine culture and local life.

• The 46° Balaton Borbusz is a new hop-on, hop-off bus service offering tours to wineries near Balatonfüred, Hungary.
• The service utilizes a 1984 DAF bus and aims to provide access to local vineyards, many of which are family-owned and previously difficult to visit without a car.
• The idea for the bus was inspired by a vintage wine tram in South Africa, and the ‘46°’ refers to the latitude shared with famous wine regions like Bordeaux and Burgundy.
• The bus connects visitors to 22 wineries along two routes, with criteria for selection including wine quality, scenic views, and hospitality.
• The service aims to boost tourism in the region outside of the capital, Budapest, and has proven popular, extending its operational season.
• Wineries like Mórocz Pince, Gazdag Pince, and Madaras Pince are highlighted, showcasing different approaches to winemaking and the personal stories of the vintners.