Balaton or: the largest bath in the world! With the surface of its water measuring 596 km², Lake Balaton is the largest inland lake in Central and West Europe.

From the Southwest to the Northeast, the lake is over 75 km long, its narrowest point being only 1.5 km at the Tihany peninsula and its broadest being approx. 14km. The average depth is three metres, which also explains the secret of the high water temperatures in the summer months (in August it can even reach 27°C). The greatest depth is again found near the Tihany peninsula (approx. 11 m) where a car ferry also crosses over the Lake. Lake Balaton is one of the cleanest lakes of its size in Europe and the region is a real paradise for flora and fauna. Alongside centuries-old cultural landscapes, which are characterised by viticulture, there are also many rare species of animals in the region. The Balaton Oberland nature protection area and Kis-Balaton, or "small Lake Balaton", are to be especially mentioned at this point. The towns and villages along the lake are, however, also fantastic. The northern bank is especially great for exploring due to its unique landscape characterised by former volcanoes. Here you can also find many old, sleepy hamlets as well as small, hidden-away wine cellars which are perfect for whiling away the hours!

The northern bank of the Balaton Lake

There are sandy and grassy beaches on the northern bank of the lake, however the water there is relatively deep. The "Balaton Riviera", as the area between Balatonalmadi and Badacsonyyörs is called, is most beautiful in the springtime. this is when the fruit and almond trees blossom in the most amazing hues and you simply feel as if you have been transported into another world.

The hinterland of the northern bank was formed from active volcanoes and the mountains of the dolomite highlands are visible from afar. You have the most beautiful view from the southern bank, and in the evening you´ll experience one of the most beautiful sunsets in the whole of Europe.