Location Scout: The Palace Hotel in Lillafüred, Hungary
zita kisgergely
With its fairy-tale-like romantic architecture and forest location, The Lillafüred Palace Hotel is a strong contender for the title of most Wes Anderson film location in Hungary. Let’s find out why.
Hotel Palota Lillafüred. Photo via Tripadvisor
Count István Bethlen, Prime Minister of Hungary in the 1920s, was the one who came up with the bright idea of building a luxury hotel and resort in Lillafüred, a small town north-east of Budapest. He was keen to have a spot for government ‘recreation’ outside the capital, where politicians could let their hair down, make deals and cultivate international relationships in a more relaxed setting. However, as construction took place at the end of the 1920s (coinciding with a major global financial crisis) the project met with a lot of criticism and was considered fiscally irresponsible–not surprisingly.
Designed by renowned architect of the time Kálmán Lux, the hotel was inspired by the style of the fifteen-century, evoking the grand hunting lodges of the ultimate Renaissance man of Hungary, King Matthias. From its opening in 1930 until 1945, the hotel was a favoured haunt of high society guests, hosting many conferences and congresses. It was the venue for the 1933 congress of writers and said to be the inspiration for the poem Ode by revered Hungarian poet, Attila József. The Palace Hotel was no stranger to the world of film either; the classic Hungarian romantic comedy Dream Car of 1934 was partially filmed here.
Nestled among the rolling hills and lush forests of the outrageously picturesque Bükk National Park, the hotel offers a unique filming location. From its spires and stone-work to its majestic wooden staircase, carved ceiling tiles and stained-glass windows, this is clearly the place Hogwarts would be located if there was ever a need for a sister school in Hungary. Adding to its attractions is the proximity of the thermal baths in nearby Miskolctapolca, located in a 150-metre-long cave complex that is hundreds of thousands of years old.
The Palace Hotel in Lillafüred is a location in Hungary that could be used by international film productions (not necessarily just Wes Anderson ones) while also taking advantage of the country’s generous tax rebate and professional crew.
Flatpack Films has years of experience servicing international brands, agencies and production companies. Filming in Hungary is easy when relying on their knowledge of the market and ability to solve complex needs. They bring the best that Hungary has to offer in terms of unique locations, exceptionally skilled crews, top-of-the-line equipment and technical solutions. Backed by an impeccable track record, Flatpack Films has worked with world-class clients including Samsung, Samsonite, Toyota, Braun, Chivas Regal and many more.
Get in touch and learn more about Budapest film locations, Hungarian film incentives, film tax credits in Hungary and how Flatpack Films can bring your project to life through a highly bespoke approach.