Surrounded by picturesque vineyards, the large Lake Balaton lies in the heart of Hungary. The mild, sun-drenched climate, summer water temperatures of over 30°C, interesting excursion destinations and attractive water sports offer excellent conditions for a relaxing holiday at Lake Balaton.
Attractive excursion ideas on the shores of Lake Balaton: Between Nature and Culture
Around Lake Balaton, numerous sights invite you to exciting experiences. Take part in an underground boat tour in the caves of Tapolca or visit the baroque castle Festetic in Keszthely. First documented in 1301, Sümeg Castle, perched on a hill above the town of the same name, is now the setting for exciting events such as a medieval feast or traditional equestrian games.
On the southern shore, almond trees and figs bloom and in the wide reed belt of the lake about 250 bird species and 800 butterfly species live. Don't forget your camera when visiting the small island of Kanyavar - storks and cormorants as well as rare dragonflies are at home in the midst of idyllic nature. In the local recreation area Kis-Balaton, the so-called "Little Balaton", lies the buffalo reserve of Balatonmagyaród. Here you can observe approximately 100 original domestic cattle in their natural habitat and learn more about their keeping in the associated exhibition centre.
Active Holidays at Lake Balaton: Hiking, Water Sports and Wellness
Sailing and diving, water skiing, volleyball, horse riding, fishing or pedalo: the sporting offers at Lake Balaton are varied. In addition, an attractive network of paths runs through the varied landscape of Lake Balaton. For example, follow the 200 km long cycle path around the lake or the 9 km long circular path on the picturesque Tihany peninsula. The golf course in Balatonygögok invites you to active recreation, while the various beaches with their cosy sunbathing lawns on the shallow shores of the lake and secluded bays hidden in the reeds tempt you to swim and sunbathe. Stroll along the lively beach promenade in Siófok to the spacious sandy beach - here you can expect play and sports attractions, entertainment and live music.
Numerous holiday guests travel to Lake Balaton every year for a health holiday. In the modern, well-equipped health resort of Hévíz, a healing spring feeds the largest thermal lake in the world with 4 hectares. Bathing in the healing water is a pleasure all year round - in summer the water temperature often reaches 36°C. Further thermal baths for your health programme in Hungary await you in Lenti or in Zalakaros.
Enjoy the culinary specialities at Lake Balaton: spicy spicy goulash or freshly caught pike-perch fillet with paprika vegetables. You will also be served the famous Balaton red wine - viticulture has a tradition of more than 2,000 years around the lake.
