On bikes with little ones: tours around Lake Tisza for families

The special feature of the cycling route network around Lake Tisza, and what has made it a real favourite with families in recent years, is the protected nature of the roads: there is hardly any motor traffic on the entire circuit. This is a big plus not only in terms of safety, but also in terms of the quality of active recreation, with nowhere to breathe in exhaust fumes and the focus on undisturbed nature, ourselves and the family. However, the circuit is on flat terrain throughout, so even the smallest riders will find it challenging. The 68 km route can be covered comfortably with children in one or two days, with an exciting programme of activities.

It is one of the shortest hiking trails, but it offers more excitement for all members of the family.  Poroszló is the ecotourism centre of Lake Tisza and a frequent starting point for cycling and water tours. Here you can visit the Lake Tisza Ecocentre, where Europe’s largest freshwater aquarium showcases the rich biodiversity of the area. The next stop is Újlőrincfalva, the smallest village in the region, which is a paradise for those seeking tranquillity: here you can even go for a pedal boat ride on Lake Jóléti.  In Sarud, it’s worth wandering around the famous adobe and thatched-roof buildings of folk architecture, before returning to Poroszló.

The Tiszafüred – Egyek bike tour is a little longer, but still easy to complete. Tiszafüred is the real capital of Lake Tisza, with many attractions for cyclists. Since we are talking about a circular tour, it is worth exploring the settlement at the end of the tour, especially because of the Thermal Beach and Spa in Tiszafüred, which is an excellent place to regenerate after the tour. The other settlement on the tour, Egyek, is a real nature-friendly tourist attraction: for example, you can see the rare and protected bird species of the Pusztakócsi marshes.

The 46 km hike also starts from Poroszló, where it would be a pity to miss the previously mentioned Eco Centre, but the real speciality of the route is the section connecting Poroszló with Tiszafüred. For a distance of 7 kms, you will cross bridges and a dam built into the standing water, where you can admire the scenery as you wind through reeds and floodplain forests.  During the tour, it is worth making a stop at the Fehér Amúr (‘White Amur’) Fish Tavern, where delicious fish dishes (also) await hungry hikers.

We should also mention the most common full lake circuit, which can be completed in a day, but with children, it is recommended to take 2-3 days to suit everyone’s pace.  Our start-up municipality, Kisköre, is one of the largest in the region and also serves as a kind of tourist centre. Swimming in the well-developed beach is a pleasure in pleasant weather. However, if you would like to schedule the beach for later in the tour, Abádszalók is an excellent option, as it has a well-equipped beach for families, with three giant slides and a variety of water sports.

Campsites and family-friendly accommodation are available in many places around Lake Tisza, where you can spend 1-2 nights at a leisurely pace exploring the natural treasures of the lake. Whichever tour route you choose, it is almost certain to be an unforgettable experience as the family recharges together from the adventure.  Get on your bike!