When you think of a holiday with your dog, Hungary probably doesn't immediately spring to mind. You're more likely to think of France, Germany, or Austria. Which is logical, as those are the well-known destinations.

Yet that's actually a shame. Because Hungary is precisely a place where you can truly relax with your dog.

What immediately struck us when we moved here was the peace and space. Outside the cities, it's quiet and green here. No crowded walking paths or busy spots, but nature, silence, and freedom. You can walk straight into nature and regularly encounter no one during a walk. No crowds around you, but all the time to walk together and discover the surroundings.

We also enjoy going out with our dogs, Fred (Dachshund, small but stubborn) and Teun (Rhodesian Ridgeback, always ready for adventure). It's precisely here that we notice how relaxed they are. No stress, no hustle and bustle, just being outside together.

Perhaps you're wondering if taking your dog to Hungary is complicated. Fortunately, it's not difficult at all. Because Hungary is in the EU, the rules are clear and simple. You'll need an EU pet passport, your dog must be microchipped and have a valid rabies vaccination. That's essentially it. No quarantine and no complicated procedures. More (and the latest) information on this can be found here: EU rules for travelling with pets

Once here, there is a leash law in many places, especially in villages and public areas. This may take some getting used to, but it's perfectly manageable in practice. And because there are so many quiet areas, you still have plenty of opportunities for lovely walks.

Hungary may be slightly less “set up” for dogs than some Western European countries, but that doesn't make it any less suitable. The difference lies mainly in the balance. Fewer special facilities, but much more space. No overcrowded dog beaches or busy off-leash areas, but vast nature where you can enjoy yourselves peacefully together.

What we've noticed ourselves too, as our Ridgeback Teun is a reactive dog, is that this environment is actually very pleasant for dogs that are a bit more sensitive or reactive. Because it's so quiet here and you don't constantly encounter other dogs or people, a lot more relaxation occurs. You can more easily keep your distance, set your own pace, and avoid situations that would normally cause stress. For some dogs, this really makes a holiday here a world of difference.

Your dog is often welcome on terraces, especially if you ask first. There's usually water available for them too, and they can increasingly enjoy a proper puppuccino. Inside restaurants, it varies a bit. This is mainly related to whether the kitchen is open or closed, but in general, people are quite relaxed about it.

When travelling with your dog, camping is actually the ideal way to holiday. You live outdoors, have space around you, and are right in nature. No small hotel rooms, but just freedom.

At our campsite, Camping Kugundua, we see this reflected too. We have two dogs ourselves, so we know how important it is for a place to feel pleasant for them as well. Our campsite is small and quiet, and situated in the heart of nature in Northeast Hungary.

We do ask a few simple things, such as keeping your dog on a lead on the premises and cleaning up after them. Not complicated, but important so that everyone can continue to enjoy their visit.

The surroundings are perfect for exploring together. You'll find forests, hills, and small villages here. The Bükk Mountains are nearby and are beautiful to explore. What you particularly notice when walking is how peaceful it is. We regularly walk a whole route with Fred and Teun without encountering anyone.

A few things we always pack ourselves: plenty of water, especially in the summer, and protection against ticks and sun. In the warmer months, it's wise to set off early and seek shade during the day. Small things, but they make your holiday a lot more relaxed.

Hungary might not be the first destination you think of when you want to go on holiday with your dog. But that's precisely what makes it such a lovely place. No mass tourism, no rush, but everything you need to enjoy yourselves together.

If you'd like to experience this for yourself, you're more than welcome to join us at our campsite. There's a good chance you'll bump into Fred and Teun there too, probably somewhere in the shade or already on their way to their next adventure. Mark can also help you out excellently with a pawfect walking route, for more information see: Kugundua.eu > Active > Walking