Catherine’s story is one of heritage, adventure, and a deep love for creating beautiful spaces. Born in North Yorkshire, England, she carries a rich family legacy—her mother, Hungarian Countess Jeanne Marie Wenckheim, and her father, a direct descendant of the great Charles Dickens.

After a decade in the hospitality industry in the West Indies, Catherine followed her roots back to Hungary in 2001. She embraced the language, the culture, and soon met her late husband, Christopher Gore. Together, they built a successful residential real estate business in Budapest, which they later sold in 2013.

Longing for a countryside retreat, Catherine and Christopher purchased their first vineyard cottage in Csákberény in 2004. What started as a weekend escape soon blossomed into something much greater—a collection of charming guest houses welcoming friends, family, and visitors seeking peace and beauty. Over the years, they lovingly expanded, restoring neighboring properties and working closely with skilled local craftsmen and a dedicated team, many of whom are from the village.  Over time, two couples—close friends from the UK—fell in love with the area and purchased cottages of their own, which have since become part of Catherine’s Cottages.

Christopher, the true pioneer of what has been created here, passed away in 2015. After several years, Catherine found love again in Graham Massey, who seamlessly embraced life on the hillside. He moved to Hungary, immersed himself in the culture, and together they continue to nurture this special place.

Catherine’s daughter, Maritta, grew up among the vineyards and now studies in Barcelona, while Christopher’s children, Lucy and Johnny, and Graham’s daughters, Emma and Katy, remain frequent visitors.

Today, alongside her loyal team, Catherine and Graham continue to offer a haven of tranquility—a little slice of heaven on the sun-kissed slopes of Csákberény’s wine-growing hills.

“Graham and Catherine’s wedding day at the cottages“