PHOTOS: Iconic bath complex reopens after months-long closure and civil cooperation
After being closed for several months, the Gyopárosfürdő Thermal, Park and Adventure Bath has partially reopened. In recent years, the facility has grown into one of Hungary’s most popular rural bath complexes. For the first time since its closure in January, visitors can once again enjoy several pools, thanks to an extraordinary community effort.
Four pools open as season restarts
Starting 5 July, four pools are available to the public in Orosháza at Gyopárosfürdő: a training pool, a thermal pool, a children’s pool, and a so-called tower pool, Turizmus.com reported. The 50-meter competition pool is expected to reopen next week, according to Mayor János Raffai.
Since mid-January, only the thermal bath section remained in operation, making the full reopening a highly anticipated event. According to Pénzcentrum, more than 230,000 people visited the facility in 2019 alone.
Community effort saves the spa
The reopening of the bath complex was made possible by an unprecedented show of community support. Coordinated by the Gyopárosért Foundation, established in March, hundreds of volunteers took part in the renovation. Local small businesses, large companies, hotels, and individuals all pitched in—some donated money, others provided materials, components, or labour.
Over the past few months, around 40 companies completed the necessary work to reopen the facility, contributing an estimated HUF 100 million (EUR 250,000) in total. Twelve engineers and several technical inspectors also volunteered their time, meticulously documenting all work in official technical logs.
Comprehensive maintenance and generous donations
The bath complex underwent extensive maintenance: its pool machinery was inspected and repaired, tiles were replaced, new pumps were installed, and the electrical system was checked—workers even refurbished the reinjection well.
One company donated enough chemicals to operate the pools for three months. Another purchased a pump worth 2 million (EUR 5,000). A third provided sun sails to enhance guest comfort. Additional improvements include a new pier along the lakeshore and landscaped grounds. Organisers also plan to revive the model boat races that were once regularly held at the site.
Energy upgrades underway
Gyopárosfürdő has secured HUF 727 million (EUR 1.8 million) in EU funding for energy modernisation efforts, so the renovation doesn’t end with this reopening. Upgrades will continue over the coming months, aiming to ensure the bath complex’s long-term sustainability.
To read or share this article in Hungarian, click here: Helló Magyar
Read also: