Balaton

Something Completely Different

A Lake Balaton holiday is speedily becoming one of the most eagerly-sort vacation destinations in Central Europe and certainly one of the most popular destinations in Hungary.  A holiday at Lake Balaton is a unique experience.

As Hungary is a land-locked country, Lake Balaton is sometimes affectionately known as the Hungarian Sea.  It stretches for 48 miles from west to east, and has a surface area of 229 square miles.

The northern bank of the lake is home to many resorts and vineyards, whilst to the south you’ll discover a number of potential holiday sites all perfect for your Lake Balaton vacation.  You’ll adore the location’s natural geography, nature reserves and folklore.

Two cities, Siófok and Balatonfüred, compete for the title of The Capital of Balaton, and both are very different.

Also worth consideration if you’re thinking about a Lake Balaton holiday are the city of Keszthely, and the spa towns of Marcali and Hévíz.

You can start your holiday at Balaton by flying into Flybalaton airport at Sármellék, although this airport is really small.  Perhaps a better option is a flight to the Hungarian capital, Budapest, then a train down to your chosen resort.

Siófok is a town that mixes charm with an energetic nightlife and is known as the partying capital of Hungary.  The town is extremely popular with Hungarian students who journey to Siófok at the end of June when their University term finishes.

Don’t concern yourself though; Siófok remains a perfect Lake Balaton holiday destination with its range of quiet and peaceful beaches that are suitable for all ages and tastes.  Siófok’s number one destination is the Coke Club, a beach resort with many amenities and activities, including live concerts.

For a more peaceful Lake Balaton holiday, Balatonfüred is situated on the northern shore of the lake.  It is a traditional old town where most of Hungary’s heritage has been carefully maintained.  A summer trip to Balatonfüred will see you appreciate its picturesque promenades, avenues lined with trees and breathtaking panoramas of the Tihany Peninsula.  There are also a few beaches and the town has become a hub for water sports.

For the complete relaxation option when it comes to your holiday in Balaton, the spa towns of  Marcali and Hévíz are ideal.  Marcali is home to the City Spa and Leisure Centre, which was opened as recently as 2003.  Now a complete water park, the Spa also has courts for tennis, handball and basketball.

Hévíz has a much richer history.  It is said the Holy Virgin created the spa there in answer to the prayers of a nurse charged with healing an invalid child, who would go on to be the East Roman emperor Flavius Theodosius.  Hévíz is fine-tuned to tourism, with many hotels and private accommodation options.

Keszthely is the most ancient town in the Balaton region, with a history going back nearly 800 years.  It’s an architectural gem with many ancient buildings, so if you’d like your Balaton holiday to including sight-seeing, Keszthely is the place for you.

A holiday in Balaton and around the lake really does give a tourist the chance to experience something different, from the party town of Siófok to the impressive heritage of Keszthely.  Your Lake Balaton holiday will be a time in your life you will never, ever forget.