Lake Balaton is the largest freshwater lake in Europe and the
premier vacation region in Hungary. Lining both shores of its
48-mile (77km) stretch are many towns and resorts, and the north
and south shores are distinctly different in character offering
something for everyone.
The south shore is thronged by a string of characterless resorts
and high-rise buildings where crowds of young people congregate for
a hedonistic holiday of sun and fun. Besides pretty beaches and
good swimming, there is numerous land and water based activities,
and at night the discos pulsate until the early hours. Siófok is
the largest and busiest resort that dominates the southern shore
during the summer months, but is completely dead in winter.
By contrast the northern shore has limited waterfront
development due to its deeper, colder waters and reed beds; its
attractions are of an historical and cultural nature rather than
activity-centred. Although there are resorts here, it is a
destination for those travellers looking for less ostentatious
showiness, rather more in the way of scenery, interesting towns and
sights, and mineral spas, complemented by the fine wines from the
nearby hills of Badacsony. The oldest and most popular spa resort
is Balantonfüred, with an easygoing sophistication and relaxed
atmosphere. Jutting out into the lake and almost joining the
northern and southern shores is the Tihany Peninsula, which has an
old Benedictine Abbey in the quaint town and is surrounded by a
nature reserve, which many consider to be the most beautiful place
on the lake. To the west and marking the end of the northern shore
is the interesting town of Keszthely.
Lake Balaton has been a popular recreation area since the Roman
times when the aristocracy built villas and set up health spas
here. It was also a famous winegrowing region and the graceful
rolling hills, cool water and warm sunshine still provide the
perfect setting and climate for both vacations and vineyards.
