Lake Balaton
For Hungarians of all ages, Lake Balaton evokes vivid memories. Travel options were limited during the communist era, so this large lake in western Hungary was a popular annual vacation destination. German families and friends separated by the Berlin Wall vacationed here as well, giving the area a distinct German flavor that still exists today.
Travel habits have changed, but Balaton has not become stuck in time. It attracts a large number of water sports enthusiasts and sunbathers who come to wakeboard, kitesurf, or paddleboard. Beyond the water, Balaton is becoming an impressive destination for music and the arts, as well as possibly Hungary's most exciting gourmet region outside of Budapest.
The shimmering, nearly 50-mile-long lake offers aquatic delights for all comers. Shallow depths on Balaton’s southern end make it an ideal spot for family vacations, while the annual 3.2-mile swim across the lake, with a course from Révfülöp on the north side to Balatonboglár on the south, attracts Olympians. Others come to watch the Blue Ribbon Grand Prix sailing regatta, going strong since 1936. More than 500 boats compete in the 96-mile race as spectators enthusiastically cheer them on.
The hilly area surrounding Lake Balaton, which generates several different microclimates, holds some of Hungary’s prime vineyards. On the northern side, Badacsony and Somló are particularly distinct regions with volcanic soil that creates stony full-bodied white wines. Especially worth seeking out are the wines in Somló made with local grapes like Furmint, Hárslevelű, and Juhfark. Badacsony and Balatonfüred produce delicious Pinot Gris, Olaszrizling, and a unique hyper-local variety called Kéknyelű.
Rankings:
- #7 in Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe
Location: Hungary
