Winter landscape of Lake Balaton

There are great hiking trails in the Balaton highlands – no coincidence, as the fairytale-like environment and distinctive natural features are easy to take to heart. If you don’t enjoy the march, or are looking for a different kind of challenge, you can quickly find your calling in truffle or pinecone picking – both of which have a long tradition in the region. “On a truffle hunt with dogs” in the forests of the Pécselyi basin, within the framework of an organised tour. In this unique programme, you will learn about the world of ‘triflas’ in the forest and beyond – in the kitchen.

Whether it’s sweltering heat or biting cold, a market experience is a great choice for all seasons! One of the well-known farmers’ markets of the Lake Balaton Highlands does not hibernate with the onset of the cold weather. The Liliomkert (‘Lily Garden’) Market is open every Sunday, whatever the season.

With the advent season coming up, there are several seasonal winter fairs on the shores of Lake Balaton that can add a cosy and idyllic atmosphere to the Christmas preparations. Such as the Advent in Paloznak, the Christmas Waiting Days in Tihany or the Farmers’ market in Hévíz.

If you want a truly unique winter view, the Tölgyes Kúria (‘Oak Mansion’) is an excellent choice. In a private igloo under the oak trees, you can also enjoy the beauty of the landscape in the snowfall. The heated igloo with 6 seats has its own waiter. It’s a really nice feeling to look at the picturesque winter view from the warmth!

Hévíz, the spring of life – so the saying goes. Life on the thermal lake, with its special features, is similar also in winter. Like the lake, the water of the Hévíz outlet river reaches a pleasant temperature of 20 degrees Celsius in winter, which makes it possible to indulge in river water sports even in the colder months. To coincide with the bird breeding season, the national park only allows hiking on the stream in autumn and winter, so you can paddle in harmony with nature. The surroundings are also a sight to behold, with water lilies replacing the ice slabs and the billowing steam adding to the special experience. From kayaking to SUP, the Hévíz outlet river offers a wide range of trekking opportunities, which will be open to adventurous hikers from October.

There is no need to travel to neighbouring countries if you fancy a little slip and slide! Put on your boots and skis, because on the ski slopes of Eplény everyone from beginners to professional snowboarders can find their place. The Vibe Park ski arena has grown to become the longest ski slope in the country, with a length of almost 8,000 metres. The lack of a thick layer of snow, increasingly rare in Hungary, is not a problem either, as snow cannons provide a landscape similar to the Alps.

If you are looking for something more extreme than skiing, we heartily recommend the now traditional New Year’s splash in Szigliget. For those who want to start the year with a clean slate and are brave enough to do so, all you have to do is visit the beach on the first day of the year and dive into the few degrees of Balaton. It is important to note that only those with a valid medical licence are allowed to take part in the splash. After the dip, the locals welcome the adventurous guests with warm tea, mulled wine and fresh bean goulash.

 Even though the water of Lake Balaton rarely freezes over enough to skate on, there are luckily a few places where you can slide. These include the “old school” artificial ice rink in Balatonlelle, the beautiful panoramic rink in Balatonboglár, which is also suitable for hockey matches, or the highly successful Várudvar (‘Castle Yard’) ice rink in Szigliget.