Lake Balaton Guide
Lake Balaton: The Hungarian Sea - Sun, Fun, and History! Guide
Welcome to Lake Balaton, Central Europe's largest lake, often affectionately called the "Hungarian Sea." This stunning destination offers a diverse range of experiences, from relaxing on sandy beaches and swimming in its shallow, warm waters to exploring charming towns and indulging in local wines. Whether you're a sunbather, a water sports enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, Lake Balaton has something to captivate you. Keszthely, located on the western shore, is a particularly attractive base for exploring the region, offering a blend of history, culture, and lakeside relaxation. Lake Balaton's history stretches back millennia, with evidence of human settlements dating back to prehistoric times. The Romans recognized its potential, establishing settlements and vineyards in the area. During the Middle Ages, the lake became a strategic location, with castles and fortresses built along its shores. The Habsburg era saw the development of Balaton as a popular resort destination for the aristocracy, a trend that continued into the 20th century. Keszthely, in particular, flourished under the Festetics family, who built the magnificent Festetics Palace, a testament to their wealth and influence. Lake Balaton offers a plethora of activities. In Keszthely, you can visit the Festetics Palace, explore the Balaton Museum, or stroll along the picturesque waterfront. Swimming, sunbathing, sailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding are popular water activities. Cycling is also a fantastic way to explore the lake's perimeter, with well-maintained bike paths offering stunning views. Don't miss the opportunity to sample local culinary delights, including "fogas" (pike-perch), a Balaton specialty, and traditional Hungarian dishes like goulash. The region is also renowned for its wines, particularly those from the Badacsony wine region on the northern shore. Be sure to try a glass of Olaszrizling or Szürkebarát.
Transportation
Getting to Keszthely and Lake Balaton is relatively easy. **By Train:** Keszthely has a train station with connections to major Hungarian cities, including Budapest. From Budapest, take a direct train to Keszthely. **By Bus:** Volánbusz operates bus services to Keszthely from various locations in Hungary. Check their website for schedules and routes. Once in Keszthely, local buses and taxis are available for getting around. Renting a car is also a good option for exploring the wider Lake Balaton region.