PHOTOS: 7 fabulous winter lake destinations in Hungary

Hungary is home to some of the most picturesque lakes in Europe. With snow-capped mountains and frozen surfaces, these lakes offer a unique and magical experience for visitors even in winter. In this article, we will explore some of the most fabulous winter lake destinations in Hungary, highlighting the activities and attractions that make them worth visiting.

1. Old Lake of Tata

The town of Tata has a rich cultural heritage, and is best known for its medieval castle, which is one of the most well-preserved in Hungary. The castle is now open to visitors and it is a popular tourist attraction. The castle is located by the Old Lake (Öreg-tó).

The lake is one of the oldest artificial lakes in Hungary. It is surrounded by forests, and it is a popular spot for fishing and bird-watching. The lake is also a protected area, as it is home to several endangered species of fish and amphibians. During the winter, if the weather is cold enough, you can even skate on the lake.

Photo: facebook.com/szeretlektatahungary

Photo: facebook.com/szeretlektatahungary

2. Lake Hévíz

The lake is located in the town called Hévíz, located in the western part of Hungary, near the city of Keszthely. It is the largest thermal lake in the world, and is known for its medical properties. The lake’s warm water, rich in minerals and microorganisms, is believed to have healing properties for a variety of ailments, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and skin conditions. Hévíz is a must-visit destination for those who are interested in health and wellness, even in the winter season.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons / Ivanhoe

Photo: facebook.com/heviz.info

3. Sástó (Sás Lake)

The name Sás refers to sedges in the lake. The lake is located in Mátra, the highest mountain range in the country. This makes Sástó the highest-located lake in Hungary. It is situated near Mátrafüred, and the area offers plenty of outdoor activities even in winter. For example, you can admire the beautiful scenery from the lookout tower by the lake or go hiking in the nearby forest.

Photo: facebook.com/Sastoturisztikaikozpont

Photo: facebook.com/Sastoturisztikaikozpont

4. Lake of Rudabánya

Rudabánya is a small town located in northeastern Hungary, near the border with Slovakia. The town was an important centre for mining in the past. Its lake was formed as a result of mining activities in the area. The deepest point of the mine lake is 60 metres, which makes it the deepest standing water in the country.

Photo: facebook.com/DroneAirphoto

Read alsoPHOTOS: Historic towns and cities in Hungary worth to visit

5. Lake Balaton

Probably one of the best-known destinations among the lakes in Hungary is Lake Balaton. A lot of people visit the country’s largest lake for their summer holidays. However, the lake can also be a great destination in winter. Even if it’s not cold enough for ice skating (which unfortunately has not been possible in recent years), there are still plenty of outdoor activities for tourists. There are numerous hiking opportunities in the nearby forests and mountains. But if you do want to skate, some lakeside towns have ice rinks.

Lake Balaton in winter sunset. Source: pixabay.com

Ice rink in Balatonlelle. Photo: FB/BL YachtClub & Apartments

6. Lake Velence

Similar to Lake Balaton, Lake Velence is usually visited in the summer. But the lake offers tourists wonderful scenery in winter, too.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons/Christo

7. Lake Tisza

Lake Tisza, the second largest lake in Hungary, offers several outdoor activities for tourists even in winter. One interesting program is the so-called ice tour, which is usually held on weekends every January. During the tour, you can walk on the frozen lake and explore the reed beds. It is important to note, however, that the tours are dependent on weather and ice thickness.