Belá (Béla)

The village of Béla, with a population of 400, is located in the picturesque hills of southern Slovakia. Despite its small size, it has become increasingly popular with tourists in recent years: its restored Baroque castle, which offers a high standard of relaxation, is a worthy attraction. Few people know, but thanks to the latest wine-making technology, the cellars of the castle hotel are home to some of the finest wines in southern Slovakia. The Hotel Château Belá currently boasts 45 stylishly furnished rooms, public areas, a well-maintained park and golf and tennis courts. Built in the French provincial baroque style, the chateau was developed by its Italian-born owner, Baron Baldácsy, into one of the most sumptuous country residences in the region as early as the 19th century. After the Second World War, its condition deteriorated until it became uninhabitable in the 2000s. The descendants of its last occupant, György Ullmann – Countess Ilona von Krockow and Count Matthias – bought back the land and restored it to its present splendour.