The cold front reached Lake Balaton on Friday and caused a serious shift in the lake’s water level. The difference measured between the two parts of the ‘Hungarian Sea’ reached 51 centimetres.
According to Infóstart, the average water level of Lake Balaton was 98 centimetres on Friday. However, the extreme values of that average were astonishingly high: 80 centimetres in Balatonfűzfő and 132 centimetres in Balatonmáriafürdő.
Ákos Horváth, leader of the Siófok observatory, told HírBalaton that the strongest wind blew at 90 km/h on 10 January. In a historical comparison, that is not regarded as very high. Mr Horváth said wind speed, wind direction and durability determine whether the lake gets shifted. He added that, regularly, southwestern winds cause higher shifts in the Balaton’s water level, but this cold front arrived from the North.
The meteorologist added that the cold would last until Wednesday, but since the Balaton’s water temperature reached 5 degrees, it is not expected to freeze.
We wrote before that Cyclone Boris in September 2024 also shifted the Hungarian Sea. Experts measured significantly different water levels on the two shores of the lake then, as well, with the southern side 33 centimetres higher than the northern side. While the water level at Siófok was 109 centimetres, on the other side, at Badacsony, it was only 76 centimetres.
Read also:
10 interesting facts about Lake Balaton you need to know – read more HERE
Hungary’s MOL and the University of Pannonia have successfully completed a research and development project and signed a cooperation agreement extending their partnership for another three years, the oil and gas company said on Monday.
MOL and University of Pannonia project completed
The R+D project, launched in March 2020, focused on renewable energy, waste management, water technologies, sustainable tourism and sustainable urban development. It produced a sustainable reactor system for thermal waste management processes and equipment for the treatment of oily waste water.
The renewed partnership between MOL and the University of Pannonia will target chemical recycling technologies for selective waste, plastics and tyres and the development of sustainable fuels, including sustainable aviation fuel.
Hungary’s natural waters have been warming six times faster since the mid-1980s than in the preceding period dating from 1870, the HUN-REN Hungarian Research Network said on Thursday.
A study by the Balaton Limnological Research Institute (BLKI) on the temperature changes in the Pannonian Ecoregion’s natural waters between 1870 and 2021 found that the lakes and rivers examined had been warming throughout the 150-year period, with the more significant temperature changes beginning in the second half of the 1980s.
The average per-decade temperature increase came to 0.32 degrees Celsius over the last 40 years compared with just 0.05 C over the whole period, HUN-REN said.
The study found that Lake Balaton, Lake Fertő and Lake Velence warmed by 0.46 C per decade, while rivers registered a slower average temperature rise of 0.27 C per decade. Over the last 40 years, Lake Balaton’s temperature has risen by 0.46 C per decade. The fastest temperature rise was registered in Lake Velence, with a rate of 0.7 C per decade.
Hungary has adopted a declaration committing to further protecting and empowering consumers in the digital and green transitions at a meeting of the OECD’s Committee on Consumer Policy, the National Economy Ministry said on Thursday.
Bence Gerlaki, a deputy state secretary at the ministry, highlighted the need for consumer protection authorities to take steps against online marketplaces outside of the European Union that fail to comply with basic rules on product safety.
Hungary also joined an OECD awareness campaign on the safe and responsible use of lithium-ion batteries, the ministry said.
Hungary ‘making strides’ in green transition – minister
Minister of Finance Mihály Varga speaks at the presentation of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) country report on Hungary in March 2024. Photo: MTI/Koszticsák Szilárd
Energy Minister Csaba Lantos said Hungary was “making strides” in the green transition, addressing the Portfolio Energy Investment Forum on Thursday.
Lantos said Hungary aimed to boost the share of renewables in gross final energy consumption to 30pc by 2030. He added that 85pc of state-owned energy group MVM’s electricity output was carbon-neutral, but the rate of zero-carbon electricity in consumption sometimes reached 100pc.
Last year, Hungary’s solar power capacity was the third-biggest in the world and now stands at 7,200 MW, he said. That capacity is set to reach 12,000 MW by 2030, but will require infrastructure upgrades, he added.
Around 280,000 homes in Hungary have solar panels.
Lantos said energy investment subsidy programmes with a combined value of HUF 1,200bn were underway. He added that without nuclear energy there could be no sustainable climate policy.
He said Hungary was among the top five countries in Europe in terms of tapping geothermal energy, and he saw potential for making biogas. He added that energy storage was a “big task” and noted that a feasibility study for a pumped storage facility would be completed by year-end.
Acknowledging Hungary’s dependence on energy imports, Lantos said gas was part of the green transition as Hungary couldn’t give it up “from one day to the other”. He added that Hungary’s gas stores were at 93pc of capacity.
He said that Hungary was no longer dependent on transit deliveries of gas via Ukraine, which were likely to cease at year-end, while MVM had recently acquired a 5pc stake in one of the world’s biggest offshore gas fields, in Azerbaijan.
Hungarian-Serb integrated water management project launched on Tisza river
A Hungarian-Serbian cross-border cooperation project has been launched with EU funding to tackle challenges posed to water management by weather extremes and related floods and droughts on the Tisza River in the border region, the communications department of the Szeged University, a project partner, said on Thursday.
Weather extremes resulting from climate change and related events have become a significant threat to communities, infrastructure and ecosystems in the Tisza river’s basin and its catchment area, the department said in a statement.
These challenges have prompted the launch of a cooperation project involving water and disaster management experts and researchers in the Hungarian-Serbian border region with the aim to mitigate hydrological risks and increase the region’s resilience to weather extremes, it said.
Dubbed ADAPTisa, the project’s participants include Szeged University’s research team and Hungary’s Lower-Tisza District Water Directorate, and Serbia’s European Affairs Fund of Autonomous Province of Vojvodina and Public Water Management Company “Vode Vojvodine”.
The EU is providing EUR 1.2 million to the total project cost of EUR 1.4 million, according to the statement.
Soon enough, Lake Balaton will live up to its “Hungarian sea” nickname. A recent study reveals that rising salinity in Lake Balaton, driven by climate change and frequent negative water balances, is altering the lake’s ecosystem. Salinity levels have steadily increased since the mid-20th century. Urbanisation has also contributed to the trend, and if it continues, salinity could reach 1000 mg/l within 50 years, posing further risks to the lake’s biota.
Increasing salinity in Lake Balaton
As Blikk notes, a recent study has revealed increasing salinity in Lake Balaton, attributed to climate change and the lake’s frequent negative annual water balances, which have occurred nine times since the year 2000. This rise in salinity is having a significant impact on the lake’s ecosystem. The research, a collaboration between the HUN-REN Balaton Limnological Research Institute, the Western Transdanubia Water Directorate, and the General Directorate of Water Management, was published in the Hidrológiai Közlöny. It highlights a 130-year trend, showing stable salinity levels until the mid-20th century, followed by a continuous rise over the past 50 years.
Siófok, Lake Balaton. Photo: depositphotos.com
No longer a freshwater lake?
Recent research highlights that Lake Balaton’s total ion concentrations have risen from 450 mg/l in the past to around 620-690 mg/l today, transforming it from a freshwater lake until the early 1980s to a fresh-saline transitional lake. This shift places it between lakes with low salinity, such as Lake St. Anne in Transylvania (10 mg/l), and high-salinity bodies like Lake Fertő (1500-2000 mg/l) and seas (around 35,000 mg/l). The study revealed that the main contributors to Lake Balaton’s salinisation are the increases in hydrogen carbonate, sulphate, and magnesium ions, rather than chloride ions, which is unlike typical salinisation trends in the Northern Hemisphere. Meanwhile, calcium levels remain stable due to limestone weathering and biogenic processes.
Urbanisation’s effect
Urbanisation is also playing a key role in the increasing chloride levels in Lake Balaton. Despite a decrease in frosty days and road salting, the rising concentration of chloride ions is largely attributed to urban development and treated wastewater. The built-up area around Lake Balaton has grown significantly, from 1.6% in 1927 to 6.0% today, contributing to the overall rise in salinity.
Climate change’s role
The rising salinity of Lake Balaton is closely linked to climate change, as the lake has experienced negative annual water balances nine times since the turn of the millennium. This means that evaporation has exceeded inflow and precipitation, increasing the water’s residence time and concentrating dissolved salts. While the impact of this salinity increase on the lake’s ecosystem has not been extensively studied, early research suggests that if this trend continues, the salinity could reach 1000 mg/l within 50 years, potentially causing significant changes to Lake Balaton’s biota.
As the cool breeze of autumn arrives, there’s nothing more tempting than sinking into a warm, rejuvenating thermal bath surrounded by nature’s beauty. Whether you’re craving a moment of pure relaxation or seeking the healing properties of thermal waters, the world offers a range of luxurious spas perfect for soothing both body and mind.
Travelo has gathered some of the best thermal baths around the world for this occasion, including one right here in Hungary.
A six-hour drive from Istanbul, Pamukkale is a stunning natural wonder in southern Türkiye, close to the city of Denizli. This area, along with the nearby ancient bathing town of Hierapolis, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hydrotherapy methods have been used here since ancient times. The snow-white limestone terraces were formed by calcium bicarbonate and carbon dioxide-rich spring water, which rises from beneath the ground and cascades down at around 35°C. Visitors have enjoyed Pamukkale’s thermal waters for centuries, and today, several hot springs in the area feed newly built spas and hotels.
Nestled in the rolling hills of southern Tuscany, the Terme di Saturnia spa is carved into limestone and fed by a natural thermal spring. The water, a toasty 37°C, is rumored to cure ailments ranging from acne to tonsillitis. According to legend, the spring was formed by a crack in the earth caused by a fight between Jupiter and his father, Saturn. In ancient Roman times, it was a popular bathing destination, and it remains just as beloved today.
In Iceland, the power of nature and human ingenuity come together at the Blue Lagoon. The water originates from a nearby geothermal power plant, which heats the surrounding black lava rock and fills natural depressions with mineral-rich 38°C water. Despite its industrial origins, the Blue Lagoon has become a highly sought-after destination. Visitors, both locals and tourists alike, are advised to book day passes in advance to enjoy the spa’s healing waters and famous mud baths. Since the area is prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity, it’s wise to check for the latest updates before visiting.
In the late 1960s, an attempt to drill for oil and gas in Egerszalók, a town in Heves County, uncovered a 65-68°C thermal spring. Over time, the water from the spring has created a unique natural formation, a 120-square-meter limestone deposit. The spring’s water, rich in calcium, sodium, magnesium, and sulfur, is classified as bicarbonate thermal water, with a high concentration of meta carboxylic acid, in 1992, the Ministry of Health recognised it as medicinal water.
As the minerals deposit over time, the area has formed a striking “salt dome” with terraced pools of sulfuric medicinal water. Visitors to Egerszalók can enjoy the warm, healing waters at the Saliris Resort Spa & Thermal Baths or Nostalgia Beach. The spa is open throughout the December holidays, except on 24 December, and the beach welcomes guests every day except for Christmas Eve.
Read also:
Post-season offer: Enjoy a 50 percent discount at this Hungarian bath – Read here
Discover unique stays around Lake Balaton – Read here
Summer is officially coming to an end soon, thus some Hungarian baths are already coming up with hot post-season deals to attract bathers.
Hungarian bath introduces post-season offer
Lelépő reports that the Tölgyes Strandfürdő in Jászapáti, renowned for its certified thermal water, features six pools and a slide park during the high season. From 21 August to 30 September, this Hungarian bath is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, offering three pools, including two thermal and one teaching pool. Adult day tickets are priced at HUF 1500 (EUR 3.81), while tickets for children, students, and pensioners cost HUF 1200 (EUR 3.05). Reduced rates are available after 3 PM when tickets are HUF 1000 (EUR 2.54) and HUF 800 (EUR 2.03).
The Somosi public beach in Tihany at Lake Balaton has been closed due to deteriorating water quality. The government office is continuously monitoring the situation.
“Based on the decision of the Veszprém County Government Office (VE/NEF/0656-9/2024), the Somosi public beach is temporarily closed as of 16 August 2024, due to worsening water quality in Lake Balaton,” Tihany’s mayor, Imre Tósoki, announced on his Facebook page.
He added, “The government office is closely monitoring the water quality at the beach, and if it is deemed safe for swimming, a new decision will be issued.”
The mayor also urged everyone to avoid using the beach for the time being to protect their health.
The Hungarian K-4 women’s team, which secured a bronze medal on Thursday, competed in the 500-metre K-2 canoe sprint with two canoes. Tamara Csipes and Alida Gazsó won silver, while the Noémi Pupp-Sára Fojt duo received bronze. Additionally, Bence Nádas and Sándor Tótka earned silver in the K-2 500 metres. Congratulations!
According to 444.hu, Noémi Pupp and Sára Fojt’s canoe finished the race alongside the German duo Paulina Paszek and Jule Hake. There was no distinguishing between Germany and the second Hungarian boat (1:39:46), resulting in both teams being awarded bronze medals.
Photo: MTI
Photo: MTI
The two Hungarian canoes next to each other after crossing the finish line. Photo: MTI
Bence Nádas and Sándor Tótka also claimed silver in the K-2 canoe sprint over 500 metres. This event has returned to the Olympic programme for the first time since Beijing 2008.
Photo: MTI
“The world champions led from the start but were challenged by the Hungarian pair throughout the race. Ultimately, though, the Germans had enough left in the tank, and the pair added another gold to the one they won in the men’s four competition earlier this week”, olympics.com wrote.
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Hungary in the world’s top in Olympic gold medals per capita – read more HERE
Lake Balaton, a beloved destination for vacationers, is facing an unprecedented ecological crisis. Invasive species, fueled by human interference and climate change, are rapidly altering the lake’s delicate ecosystem.
More and more invasive species are taking over and transforming Lake Balaton to suit their needs. Péter Takács, senior research fellow at the HUN-REN Balaton Limnological Research Institute, says we contribute to these invasions by squeezing the Balaton, building up the shore, and accelerating climate change, Telexreports.
According to the expert, our task should be to maintain a level of environmental fitness suitable for us. We are used to the water of Lake Balaton being clean and enjoyable. However, if we are not careful, invasive species may cause changes in the biota of Lake Balaton, making it unsuitable for recreational purposes. He says that if you step on a clump of mussels while leaving Lake Balaton and they cut your leg, you have experienced an ecological invasion.
For a long time, Lake Balaton was a dynamic, changing natural system with minimal human intervention, says Takács. The water level of the lake could fluctuate by up to one and a half to two meters in a short time, and people lived with that for thousands of years. The parts of the lake that are free of floodwater, where ancient settlements were built, especially on the southern side, lie several kilometres from the present shoreline. The construction of the Sió Canal has succeeded in keeping the water level lower, minimising the previous significant fluctuations.
Human activity has occupied and shaped the now flood-free coastline. This region was crucial for the biota of Lake Balaton as it had the most diverse fauna. Unfortunately, human conquest of this region has been very successful, with almost two-thirds of the current shoreline of Lake Balaton now completely converted and protected by shore protection plants.
Invasive and non-native species in Lake Balaton
View from Tihany, photo: Pixabay
Invasive species can significantly transform their environment. One example is the freshwater mussel, which arrived in the mid-1930s by clinging to barges towed up from the Danube via the Sió Canal. It was the first invasive species to fundamentally change the lake’s biota. The mussel spread rapidly and within a few years had colonised the entire paved shoreline and every solid surface in the water, including boat bottoms, piers, and even solid aquatic life.
But the mussel wasn’t the only species to enter the lake through this route. The monkey goby, the river nerite, and the quagga mussel likely also entered via the Sió Canal, with the latter appearing in the early 2000s. The quagga mussel doesn’t need a solid surface to attach to; it can form aggregates on sandy sediments, which can then cut bathers’ feet.
The release of non-native species has also negatively impacted the lake’s biota, such as the spotted and white bream introduced in the 1960s. Their mass introduction was expected to increase fishing yields and reduce algal blooms, however, these species promote aquatic blooms and feed on zooplankton, the basic food for larvae of all other fish species.
Moreover, these species have few natural enemies. They grow large and quickly, reaching 30-40 kilos and 1-1.2 meters in length within a few years, making them too big for native predators.
According to Takács, new species are often not problematic initially. However, due to the law of large numbers, sooner or later, a species will appear that can cause significant damage. Unfortunately, experience has shown that the arrival of a new species will inevitably have some unforeseen, harsh effects.
Read also:
Lake Balaton polluted with cocaine, hormones and sunscreen – Read here
Hungarian presidency working for competitive aquaculture – Read here
In Hungary, there are numerous alternatives to Lake Balaton, including locally known and beloved lakes with sandy shores, which are often free of crowds.
For many, a weekend or even a day trip to the Hungarian Sea is a luxury, but there are still many beautiful lakes to visit in the country. Hungary boasts over 50 natural lakes with designated beaches suitable for swimming. Pénzcentrumhas listed these, including some well-known and some less well-known bathing sites in both the eastern and western parts of the country.
Explore the beauty and tranquillity of Hungarian lakes
Photo: Facebook, Hévízi Tófürdő
Lake Hévíz is situated along the western slope of the Keszthely plateau, in the Hévíz valley, near the town of Hévíz. Covering 4.44 hectares and surrounded by 50 hectares of forest, it is Europe’s largest warm-water lake with healing properties. Unlike other hot springs typically found in clay or rocky soils of volcanic origin, Lake Hévíz is a peat-bed spring fed by water at 38°C.
In summer, the temperature ranges from 33-35°C, occasionally reaching 36-38°C on very hot days. In autumn and winter, the temperature is around 24-26°C. The water temperature has a soothing and relaxing effect on bathers and patients, as it is considered neutral to the human body’s thermoregulatory system.
Lake Tisza is another of Hungary’s best-known lakes. Excluding the part of Lake Fertő outside the border, it is Hungary’s second-largest artificial lake. Located on the Tisza in the northern part of the Great Plain, it was formerly known as Kiskörei reservoir and was initially created for river regulation. Over time, it has developed its own ecology and tourism, becoming a popular destination for hikers, fishermen, and bathers. Although originally artificial, its beach is now classified as a natural bathing site.
Lake Fertő. Photo: FB/Fertő-Hanság Nemzeti Park
The Fertő, or Lake Fertő, is one of Hungary’s most famous lakes, located along the north-western border near Sopron. About 20,000 years old, it is the third-largest lake in Central Europe and the westernmost steppe lake and rocky outcrop in Europe. Most of it lies in Austria, with only a small part in Hungary. The Fertő Valley, including the lake, is a World Heritage Site. It is the second warmest lake in Central Europe after Lake Balaton, with summer temperatures often reaching 30°C. According to Fertő-tó.hu, there are 11 well-developed beaches offering sandy, grassy, or pebbly shorelines.
The Orfűi lakes are an artificial lake system about 10 km northwest of Pécs, at the northern foot of the Mecsek. The system, approximately 5 km long, consists of four lakes: Lake Orfűi, Lake Pécsi, Lake Herman Ottó, and Lake Kovácsszénájai. The lakes cover a total area of 113 hectares and are fed by the Vízfő spring.
Tourism in Orfű began in the 1960s with the development of the lake system. Initially, small holiday camps and fishing lodges were built alongside Lake Orfűi and Lake Pécsi, while farms and institutions established corporate holiday homes on the western side of Lake Pécsi. The Kis Lake beach is a natural beach with controlled water quality, a sandy bottom, and natural water.
Photo: FB / Visit Nyíregyháza
The Sóstói-forest, located between Nyíregyháza and Sóstógyógyfürdő, surrounds the 9.5-hectare Sóstói-lakes. The natural beach, Tófürdő, is complemented by other nearby beach facilities like the Aquarius Adventure and Park Baths. The shores of Tófürdő are covered with sand from the Tisza, and a wooden building reminiscent of the Balatonfüred bathhouse, built in 1930, serves as the emblematic entrance to the baths.
Photo: FB / Vadása.hu
Although many people have never heard of Lake Vadása, those who have often haven’t visited it. Lake Vadása is an artificial lake complex consisting of two lakes in southern Vas County, created by damming the Vadása stream. The lakes and the surrounding resort-like municipality can be reached from the centre of Hegyhátszentjakab.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons by Civertan
Szelidi Lake is the fifth largest natural lake in Hungary. It is 5 km long, 150-200 meters wide, 3-4 meters deep, and has a surface area of approximately 80 hectares. Despite being only about 120 kilometres from Budapest, it is relatively unknown. The quiet sandy areas on the southern shore host well-developed and tidy beaches. Visitors can rent water bikes, and there are many small playgrounds and a giant slide for both adults and children.
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5 great summer day trip destinations in Hungary for families with children – Read here
4 places to visit that are only 1 hour away from Budapest – Read here
Looking for a refreshing swim or a whole day of splashing around and lounging with family or friends? Here are the top free beaches in Hungary offering clean, comfortable environments, changing rooms, restrooms, snack bars, and plenty of sports and entertainment options.
Budapest – Roman Shore Beach (Római-parti Plázs)
Photo: FB/Gergely Karácsony
At Budapest’s only free beach along the Danube, you’ll find a genuine Roman shore summer vibe! The natural, well-maintained area offers a refreshing retreat with free drinking water, access to restrooms, baby-changing facilities, showers, colourful sun loungers, and a designated swimming area marked by buoys for safety, Travelo writes.
Address: 15-17 Kossuth Lajos Üdülőpart
Lake Balaton – Zamárdi Great Free Beach
On this ten-kilometre stretch, you can do more than just swim and sunbathe; there are also facilities for volleyball and basketball. Parents with young children will appreciate the playgrounds and diaper-changing facilities, and the beach is accessible for people with disabilities. With plenty of shady trees, you can easily find a cool spot, and there are various nearby snack bars and restaurants to choose from. Along with these conveniences, the area offers stunning panoramic views.
Address: Zamárdi, 14 Margó Ede Promenade
Komárom – Koppánymonostor Free Beach
Located along the Danube, this free beach is open during the season from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Spanning around 4000 square meters of green space, the area includes benches and street furniture for visitors. The beach offers accessible facilities, including changing rooms, a baby-mother room, rest areas, and drinking water stations, as well as a small playground.
Address: Komárom-Koppánymonostor, Hajóvontató part
Lake Tisza – Tiszafüred Free Beach
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/ilovetiszato/
This 500-meter beach area features changing rooms, restrooms, and numerous active recreation opportunities. You can try foot tennis, streetball, beach soccer, or volleyball, and there are water sports equipment rentals available. Families can enjoy child-friendly services, a playground, and a variety of snack bars.
The Blue Ribbon Regatta, Europe’s largest lake race, will be held again on Lake Balaton for the 56th time this year, on the weekend closest to the July full moon, as tradition dictates.
Photo: FB/ Kékszalag
It is exactly 90 years since the first Blue Ribbon race started at Lake Balaton. The regatta, organised under the banner of the Hungarian Sailing Federation, starts and finishes in Balatonfüred, after circumnavigating the Hungarian Sea, covering more than 155 kilometres. Today, the regatta has become Europe’s most prestigious and oldest round-the-lake competition. The Blue Ribbon’s course is the longest among the main European round-the-lake events and now boasts the largest competing fleet. This year’s competition will take place from 18 to 20 July for the 56th time.
Although the Blue Ribbon has been constantly renewed over the years, it has maintained its traditions, with traditional sailing boats still competing alongside those powered by modern technology. Kékszalag holds the current entry record of 681, making the Balaton regatta one of the biggest celebrations of sailing in Europe.
The early years of the Blue Ribbon Regatta
The first sailing race was held on 27 July 1934, writes Hamu és Gyémánt in a summary article. A year after its foundation, the Hungária Yacht Club announced a historic race to bring together the boats of the Hungarian Sailing Yacht Association for a Balaton-round speed race open to all.
Photo: FB/ Kékszalag
In the past, the fastest ships crossing the Atlantic Ocean were allowed to wear a blue ribbon on their masts, a tradition adopted by sailors in Hungary, hence the name of the race. Initially, the race was held every two years in even-numbered years until 1942, when the Second World War interrupted the tradition. The competition resumed in 1947 after a five-year hiatus, and since 2001, the race has taken place annually.
The original itinerary of the sailing competition was the Balatonfüred-Keszthely-Balatonfüred route, later extended to include Balatonkenese and Siófok. The 155-kilometre round trip was initially not subject to time limits.
56th Blue Ribbon in the middle of the heatwave
Photo: FB/ Kékszalag
The extreme heat is not interfering with the preparations for the Blue Ribbon Festival in 2024, Origo reports. On the contrary, the heat is just another reason for more people to spend the most special week of the summer at Lake Balaton. This year, the Blue Ribbon Festival will start on Saturday 13 July in Balatonfüred. Competitors in the White Ribbon sailing race, which takes place before the main competition, will have to sail around the eastern part of the lake. Many see this race as a prelude to the Blue Ribbon.
The actual Blue Ribbon Regatta starts on Thursday, 18 July at 9 am. After departing from Balatonfüred, sailors will follow the usual route around the lake, passing Balatonkenese, Siófok and Keszthely, and returning to the finish in Balatonfüred within the 48-hour limit. Of course, the fastest boats will not only be competing against each other but will also attempt to beat the previous record of 5 hours 3 minutes and 56 seconds set by Márton Józsa and the crew of MLS Raiffeisen Fifty-Fifty.
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The EU member states’ officials responsible for fishery met in Balatonfüred, in western Hungary, at an informal meeting focusing on an economically and environmentally sustainable freshwater aquaculture and innovative and sustainable solutions in the sector, the agriculture ministry said on Friday.
The Hungarian presidency convened the meeting of the sector’s directors general and attaches between July 8 and 10 with a view to drafting an “integrated and holistic approach to develop freshwater and maritime aquaculture”, the statement said.
Fish caught within the EU are falling short of satisfying growing demand, so increasing the sector’s competitiveness is “crucial”, the statement said.
One of the Hungarian presidency’s aims is a paradigm shift towards the consumption of freshwater as well as sea fish, the ministry said. Its aims are in line with the Aquaculture Strategy issued by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, which also aims to increase the industry’s role, they said.
In this extreme heat, many people are looking for refreshment on beaches and waterfronts. Fortunately, in Hungary, there are plenty of opportunities to do this besides natural lakes, as there are 25 water parks in Hungary with pools and slides offering exciting water experiences.
During the weeks of heat, many people head to beaches and waterfronts for a refreshing break, but for those looking for something a little more special, this year they’ll have to reach deeper into their pockets, as we reported. Fun elements are now a standard feature of developed spas, but these days most beaches alongside natural waters have slides too. In terms of the number of slides, Aquarena Mogyoród, which closed last year but has reopened, leads the way with 26 slides, followed by the Zalakaros and Sárvár spas with 23.
Pénzcentrum has collected six water parks in the countryside that may not be familiar to everyone, but all of them offer families special shaped, sized or themed waterslides.
Spa and Wellness Centre in Sárvár
Photo: Facebook Sárvári Gyógy- és Wellnessfürdő
In Sárvár, you will find colourful water slides and 18 pools, including thermal and adventure pools, wave pools, children’s pools and jacuzzi for those who seek extreme water experiences. The 23 slides include giant slides, a rainbow slide, racing slides and two new thrills: a 106-metre super tube slide and a U-shaped slide.
Annagora Water Park in Balatonfüred
The Annagora Aquapark in Balatonfüred offers 12 adventure slides, 3 children’s slides, and a large and a small wave pool. The slides include a “whirlwind”, a “river” and a “turbo” slide, all of which offer unforgettable experiences. In addition to the pools and slides, saunas, steam rooms, a scent chamber and an ice cave are also available, so that everyone can find the relaxation experience that best suits their liking.
Cascade Cave Baths in Demjén
Next to the Cascade Cave Baths in the Demjén Thermal Valley, there is also an aquapark. The adventure pool features a 24-metre-wide, 25-metre-deep slide tower sunk into a mountain, with 550 metres of sliding surface. Visitors can also try the 133-metre drifting waterfall, as well as the split-track and kamikaze versions in the water park.
Aqua Centrum Slide Park in Cegléd
The Aqua Centrum in Cegléd offers 18 giant slides, reminiscent of medieval castles, with fun and playful elements. On the “children’s island”, there is a dragon slide and children’s slides, while adults can enjoy tube slides, closed, open and wave slides. It also features a four-lane family slide and one called “slow river” which is a great family activity. For the more adventurous, the kamikaze and onion slides are a real test of courage.
Aquacinema in Kisvárda
The Aquacinema in Kisvárda offers new pools, adventure elements and a slide park. It features a 5-storey slide tower which has been added to the park’s 14 slides. For the brave ones, there is a giant twist slide, a black hole, and semi-open, tunnel-like, four-speed slides. Aquacinema is a great choice for families, as the little ones from the age of 2 can use 3 slides too which start from the first floor.
Napfényfürdő Aquapolis in Szeged
Photo: www.facebook.com/napfenyfurdo.aquapolis
The Sunshine Baths Aquapolis in Szeged has 13 slides, out of which 9 are indoor and 4 are outdoor, with a total length of 1 km. The main attractions of the park include a 272-metre-long enclosed giant slide with a 30-metre tower, accessible by an elevator, and a 223-metre-long enclosed giant slide with a kamikaze section. You can visit Napfényfürdő Aquapolis in the winter too, as of the 23 pools, 16 are open all year round.
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The extended school year has delayed the start of the high season by a week. However, the warming weather and record-breaking heat suggest that it will last longer this year, with busy weekends potentially extending into September at Lake Balaton.
The average price of admission tickets to bathing facilities in Hungary has increased by 15 percent. The timing of these price hikes varies, with some facilities implementing them at the start of the peak season, while others have not yet done so, reports Világgazdaság.
Hungary boasts over 400 aquatic facilities, including swimming pools and temporary, locally managed beaches with just one or two pools. Of these, approximately 200-220 are considered tourist attractions and are open year-round, featuring both indoor and outdoor units.
No new bathing facilities have opened this year at Lake Balaton or countrywide. However, the renovated bath in Csorna, situated between Kapuvár and Győr, has been unveiled, and a significant reconstruction and extension have taken place in Makó, as reported by the general secretary of the bathing association.
Photo: depositphotos.com
Hotels with spa facilities, including several spa complexes, have also been inaugurated this year in various parts of the country. These hotel developments are typically located near attractions that significantly influence travel decisions and are close to bathing spots.
Price changes for beach tickets and restaurants during the high season
One positive aspect of this high season is the decrease in inflation, the stabilisation of energy prices and the absence of COVID-19 or other pandemics, making planning more predictable. “Ticket prices have increased differentially, by an average of 15 percent compared to last year, but not all at once. Some sooner, some later, but everyone has now started to raise prices,” said Zoltán Balogh, secretary general of the Hungarian Bathing Association.
Last year’s drastic food inflation had a noticeable impact, especially at Lake Balaton, with many people bringing food and drinks from home to the beaches. Buffet prices have not decreased this year either, but as Balogh pointed out, guests’ behaviour has also changed. Some bring food from home, while others indulge in a pancake or beer at the buffet. The inflation of the popular beach food, the lángos, has stabilised, with plain lángos available for as low as HUF 500 (EUR 1.27) and more elaborate versions costing up to HUF 1800 (EUR 4.6).
Discounts and gradual opening of beaches at Lake Balaton and countrywide
Source: Facebook/Csornai Termálfürdő
SZÉP cards can still be used to purchase tickets and pay for meals at most beach bars, which operators are counting on this year as well, according to the secretary general.
Although school holidays started later, many thermal baths participated in an initiative by the Hungarian Bathing Association, aimed at establishing a tradition. This campaign, named the Teacher-Student Beaching, included various special offers and discounts for the last three days of the school year.
On 1st May, the classic opening day of the beach season, outdoor units were operational almost exclusively in Hajdúszoboszló. However, outdoor pools and adventure elements were gradually introduced at beaches across the country, reaching full capacity by the end of the school year, as reported by the portal.
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Due to the increase in the price of admission tickets for thermal baths, it is possible that a family of four has to pay about HUF 13,000 (EUR 33) per day on average for tickets, even while taking advantage of the discounts. This amount is often paid five or six times over the course of a week’s holiday, so families can expect to spend up to HUF 70,000 (EUR 177), although this is only one component of a summer holiday, along with accommodation and meals.
Last year, the typical increase in the price of thermal bath admission tickets was 18-20 percent, followed by a smaller increase this year, as we previously reported. Andor Albel, president of the Dél-Alföld Termálklaszter, told Népszavathat in the case of the Szentes spa, ticket prices have increased by 38 percent in two years, which is an extreme example.
The sharp rise in energy prices and last year’s extremely high annual inflation made the price increase in 2023 inevitable, although this did not cover the increased costs of operating a thermal bath.
The majority of rural spas are likely to operate at a loss if only their annual turnover is taken into account. Losses are covered by the municipalities exercising ownership rights, which provide subsidies to the baths.
Thermal baths are the most expensive in Budapest
Budapest Széchenyi Thermal Bath Source: Pixabay / javirue
The highest ticket prices for adults are in Budapest, where for example you have to pay 10,500 HUF (EUR 26.5) for a full-day ticket in Széchenyi Bath and 16,200 HUF (EUR 40.9) in Gellért. In the two baths mentioned, there isn’t a cheaper ticket option than the ones indicated, and neither is the pensioner or student ticket an option, Népszavareports.
Expensive tickets in the capital do not mean that tickets are cheap in the countryside, although they do vary relatively widely. Among the most expensive is the RQ spa in Győr, where a full-day adult ticket costs HUF 8,900 (EUR 22.5), not far behind is Napfényfürdő in Szeged, where the prices are slightly higher. Egerszalók is in a similar category, where a daily ticket costs HUF 9,000 (EUR 22.7).
Among the more expensive spas in the countryside is Sárvár, and Zalakaros is only slightly cheaper. Miskolctapolca’s Barlangfürdő and the Ellipsum, the baths in Harkány and Bükfürdő are similarly priced at around HUF 7000 (EUR 17.7).
Most thermal baths offer discounts
Source: Facebook/Csornai Termálfürdő
There is a varying system of discounts at the entrances to spas, which can often seem complicated. In addition to adult, student/child and pensioner tickets, there are group tickets and family tickets, which vary based on the number of adults and children, but in some places, there are 2-3 hour swimming tickets, afternoon tickets after 4 PM-5 PM and night swimming tickets as well.
Passes are also available for those who spend a week or two at a spa. You can buy passes for 5 and 10 occasions, not just monthly, quarterly, half-yearly or yearly passes. Tickets can be combined with the services available, as a basic ticket does not normally include the use of the adventure baths and saunas, which are charged separately.
Complex tickets, i.e. tickets for all services, can also be purchased. Many places offer a discount for locals, which must be proven by showing your address card. In most cases, this is only possible with prior registration.
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While Lake Balaton is undoubtedly a tourist favourite in Hungary, and Lake Velence is a close second, our country has many more amazing lakes situated in breathtaking environments that you will leave with lifelong memories. This summer, explore five stunning lakes in Hungary that are worth visiting for hiking, swimming, and fishing.
Orfű Lake
Lake Orfű. Photo: FB/Orfű
Just a few kilometres from Pécs, the Orfű lake system takes advantage of a rich karst water system. The area includes five lakes, with Orfű Lake being the first to be established. This picturesque lake is ideal for swimming and is also popular among anglers, with carp, grass carp, catfish, and pike abundant in its waters, Lelépő writes. The surrounding area is perfect for hiking and cycling, offering well-marked trails through scenic landscapes. Additionally, visitors can enjoy water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Jósvafői Tengerszem
Jósvafői tengerszem (Jósvafő tarn). PrtSc: YouTube/Zsolt i (Jósvafői Tengerszem-tó)
Jósvafői Tengerszem, an artificial lake, was formed in 1942 by damming the Jósva spring from the Baradla Cave, feeding the Jósva stream. Despite its stunning emerald green water in summer, the lake remains icy cold, rarely exceeding 10 degrees Celsius, making it unsuitable for swimming. However, it is surrounded by beautiful hiking trails, making it a must-visit for hikers. The area is also rich in geological and ecological features, offering educational opportunities about karst formations and local flora and fauna.
Szelid Lake
Photo: Wikimedia Commons by Civertan
Located near Kalocsa in the Kiskunság region, Szelid Lake is the fifth largest natural lake in Hungary, stretching five kilometres long and up to two hundred meters wide. What makes it unique is its serpentine shape, best appreciated from the air. The lake’s meandering form, reminiscent of a snake, makes it a picturesque and intriguing destination. Besides its unique shape, the lake is surrounded by lush landscapes, making it a perfect spot for nature walks and bird watching.
Vekeri Lake
Vekeri Lake. PrtSc: YouTube/Szabó Viktor (Debrecen: Vekeri-tó (Drón videó))
Situated about ten kilometres east of Debrecen, the Erdőspuszták area, which includes Vekeri Lake, offers various recreational activities such as hiking, cycling, picnicking, and fishing. Last year, the lake dried up due to severe drought, but the recent rainy weather has restored its beauty, making it an attractive spot for visitors again. The lake is also a great place for bird watching, as it attracts various species of waterfowl. Additionally, the surrounding forested areas provide a cool retreat during hot summer days, with plenty of shaded paths and rest areas.
Vadása Lake
Photo: facebook.com/vadasato
A highlight of Őrség and Hegyhátszentjakab, Vadása Lake was created in 1968 using water from the Vadása stream. The name “Vadása” refers to the numerous foxes (vadak) that dug holes along the stream. This lake, fed by twelve streams, is divided into two parts: a larger and a smaller, more secluded one surrounded by dense forest, making it a favourite for fishing enthusiasts with species like carp, grass carp, bream, pike-perch, asp, and crucian carp. The serene environment also makes it an excellent spot for camping, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.
