Visited Tihany and stayed in the Kastely at end of Sept - visiting on work/pleasure. As we had been in Budapest in very smart hotel for few days previously, arriving in pitch black Tihany late in the evening was a real experience. First impressions of hotel were good, check in staff (and all throughout the stay were very helpful and friendly - like everywhere in Hungary a few words of the lingo (try even Hello and Thank you) will repay dividends. Now its true that there wasn't much in the way of lively attentive service - but we thought that was definately part of the charm of the place. Awaking to find that our room led out onto a thirty foot balcony, with excellent views over the lake (having a glass of wine watching the sunset and later the Milky Way out there was fabulous.) Decor wise and hotel overall think faded grandeur rather than luxury - but honestly - its a pearl. And if you want a balcony ask when booking - think rooms 15-17 have the best views. For where and what it is - (the Habsburgs summer residence no less) it's worth giving it a go. The traveller that likes all his luxury all the way will hate it - the one who likes an authentic, and still relatively grand setting and stay will love it. Try it!