Szijártó Hajnalka · 14/06/2022

· Society

Discover Lake Velence this summer! – wine, beaches, restaurants and more

Korzó free beach, Velence. Photo: Szijártó Hajnalka @dailynewshungary

When thinking about a summer holiday in Hungary, Lake Balaton is the first thing that comes to everybody’s mind. However, Lake Velence is an equally good option for those who would like to discover a new place that is not so far from Budapest! Read our article to find out more about Hungary’s third largest natural lake and its surroundings.

How to get to Velence

One of the main advantages of Lake Velence is that it is easy and fast to reach. Travelling from Budapest, it only takes about 30 minutes, depending on the mode of transport.

Trains go twice every hour from Budapest Kelenföld Railway Station and it takes only 35 minutes to arrive at Velence station. By car, the estimated travel time is about 30 minutes.

Even in the summer heat, the trains are cool thanks to the air conditioners, so one does not have to worry about travelling in the hot weather.

Velence railway station. Photo: Szijártó Hajnalka @dailynewshungary

A park near the railway station. Photo: Szijártó Hajnalka @dailynewshungary

Best beaches at Lake Velence

Velence Korzó és szabadstrand

This free beach offers a Mediterranean vibe: sandy beach shore, sunshades and sunbeds await visitors.

The shallow water and jump castle make sure that children will have a good time here!

There are plenty of food opportunities, too. One can have a bite in the restaurants and cafés located on the shore and try out the famous Hungarian lángos, hekk or pancakes.

Read also3 staple Hungarian beach foods!

Korzó free beach, Velence. Photo: Szijártó Hajnalka @dailynewshungary

Velence Resort & Spa

The popular hotel in Velence offers a free beach, interesting summer programmes and fun playgrounds for the whole family.

Guests at Velence Resort & Spa can enjoy the lake and the 10 swimming pools of the spa complex at the same time.

Try out the thermal and experience baths, sauna and massages at this relaxing hotel.

Velence Resort & Spa beach. Photo: velencespa.com

Velence Resort & Spa. Photo: Facebook, Velence Resort & Spa

Északi strand, Velence (North Beach Velence)

Although the North beach is not free, it might be worth to pay for it. If you are looking for a grassy beach with trees, this large shore is the perfect place for you!

Beach volleyball courts, a sandy handball or soccer field and a grassy soccer field are awaiting sporty guests. What is more, the Crosswater watercraft rental is open for those who would like to choose a more demanding water sport.

Velence north beach. Photo: velence.hu

North beach, Velence. Photo: Facebook, Északi strand Velence

Holdfény Sétány free beach, Gárdony

Located in Gárdony, Holdfény Sétány (Moonlight Promenade) operates as a free beach. For those who would like to avoid the UV radiation, there are several trees on the beach providing shadow. Surfers are also welcome here, as this is a beloved beach for people who do that sport.

Holdfény sétány free beach, Velence. Photo: velenceito.info

Best restaurants near Lake Velence

Szúnyog-szigeti Halászcsárda

One of the most famous restaurants in Velence lies on a peninsula in a magical setting.

Guests can try out Hungarian specialties such as halászlé (fish soup) in this fisherman’s inn with a 150-year-old history and good reputation.

The island is not only known for this outstanding restaurant, but also for its scheduled boat ride just 100 metres from the fisherman’s inn. In addition, one might take a simple yet completely relaxing walk on the island.

Szúnyogszigeti Halászcsárda, Velence. Photo: Facebook, Szúnyogszigeti Halászcsárda

Mosquito island, Velence. Photo: Facebook, Szúnyogszigeti Halászcsárda

Gulyás Csárda, Gárdony

Opened in 1982 and renovated in 2013, the Gulyás Csárda is waiting for its old and new guests in the centre of Agárd near Lake Velence.

The restaurant perfectly combines the classic flavours and hospitality of bygone times with today’s modern gastronomy. The emphasis is on the home-made taste of traditional Hungarian dishes, but international food is served, too.

On Saturday evenings, gypsy music is played to ensure an excellent and lively athmosphere.

Gulyás csárda restaurant, Velence. Photo: Facebook, Csárda Gulyás

Gulyás csárda, Velence. Photo: Facebook, Csárda Gulyás

Gárdonyi Gyros

This restaurant falls rather into the fast-food category, however, it is the most popular place among locals. Every day, hungry people stand in a queue to order their favourite greek meal to take it home.

If someone is looking for good quality greek food, this place in Gárdony is the perfect choice.

Gárdonyi Gyros. Photo: Facebook, Gárdonyi Gyros Kft

Lookout tower of Bence-hegy

The lookout tower was completed in 2018 and offers a spectacular view of Lake Velence. The hill was named after István Bencze, the first successful grape grower of the area.

Hundreds of tourtists climb the Bence-hill to reach this modern building and take a look at the shining water of the lake from above.

The observation deck at the top of the 20-meter-high tower is accessible by 118 stairs.

Lookout tower of Bencehegy. Photo: Facebook, Bence-hegyi kilátó – Velence

View from the Lookout tower. Photo: Facebook, Bence-hegyi kilátó – Velence

Velence Wine

Velence is not only famous for its beaches and restaurants, but also for its wine. Due to the proximity of Lake Velence and its favourable ecological conditions, quality wines can be made here. The wine is also special beacuse as cooler winds flow from the Mór wine region, the essential ingredients of the wines do not burn.

The main grape varieties grown here are chardonnay, green Veltelini, Rhine Riesling, Italian Riesling, Muscat, and Cabernet Franc.

Velence wine. Photo: velencebor.hu

Halász Castle (Fisherman’s Castle)

Built around 1810, this charming castle could fit into a fairytale. Although the castle building became uninhabitable from the devastation of World War II, on 25 June 2016, the Dabasi Fisherman’s Castle and its 1.5-hectare park were renovated and opened for the public.