Many people think Lake Balaton is simply a spa region that is aimed at the more mature tourists, but it is so much more than that. Families will love holidays here as there are lots of activities for younger people to enjoy. Lake Balaton is one of the biggest lakes in Europe, being over 50-miles long and 8-miles wide. The surrounding area boasts some great cycle paths and walking routes, if you’re looking to get out and explore the nearby countryside. Even though Hungary is not a coastal country, staying at Lake Balaton makes a great alternative to a beach holiday as it is quite a special place. You will feel as though you’re actually at the seaside because during high season sand is taken to the lakeside, turning it into an artificial beach for a few months. So water sports, such as sailing and rowing, can be enjoyed before a nice relaxing sunbathing session on the sand, or building sandcastles with the children. In the winter, the lake freezes over spectacularly, giving you the chance to ice skate on it. And of course, when you’ve finished all that sunbathing (or ice skating), there’s one of Hungary’s most famous activities to enjoy: wine tasting. You really must try the wine in this region, because it’s some of the best you’ll taste. Visitors love a wine tour. All of the bigger wine cellars offer tours where they show you around cellars and vineyards, as well as talk about the history and the wine production. The best part is when they offer you a taste of several different types of wine to try, with some snacks to go with it. It is an intoxicating way to spend an afternoon or two. We can’t possibly talk about the local wine, without mentioning the delicious Hungarian
cuisine that you can’t leave without tasting. There are so many national dishes it’s hard to recommend just a few, but we’ll give it a go! You can find a lot of white meat in Hungary such as deer, wild boar or fresh-water fish. Another favourite is soup - fisherman soup (halászlé) and pea soup (borsóleves) are both traditional and very tasty. Pancakes are also a staple on the Hungarian menu and there are so many different toppings to choose from. Eating out is very reasonably priced, so it is worth making the most of it by having meals at lots of different restaurants and trying as much of the local food as possible! If you’re looking to indulge in a bit of spa time (which is an absolute must when you visit Hungary), we can recommend the perfect place. On the western end of Lake Balaton is the beautiful Lake Hévíz, which is the largest thermal lake in Europe. It is a famous spa region and people now bring their children to experience the thermal lake. Bathing in the healing waters is said to be medicinal for those who suffer from rheumatic illnesses, though, the warm water is relaxing for anyone who wants to let the soothing water do its job. There really isn’t anywhere else like it. After a long soak in Lake Hévíz, enjoy one of the several specialist luxurious massages that the spa has to offer - it will be a perfect end to a superb day. You’ll leave Hévíz feeling very relaxed, refreshed and ready for some more exploring. There are plenty of lively activities close by, with clubs, pubs and lots of restaurants to round the day off with. Whether you like an outdoors, active holiday or the slower, more leisurely pace of life, you’ll always find something fun to do in Hungary.
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