Lake Balaton and its surroundings are not just a place for summer beach days – the region also boasts stunning natural treasures and excursion spots. It offers many wonderful hiking routes across different difficulty levels and landscapes, so everyone can find something to suit them, from easy walks to serious hikes. Below we summarise the most popular hiking routes in the Balaton region and share some useful links with more information about hiking in the Balaton Uplands.
Tihany peninsula
The walking route on the Tihany peninsula is especially popular, as it offers a magical panorama of Lake Balaton and showcases the area's geological and historical treasures. On the way you can visit the Inner Lake, Apáti Hill and the Benedictine Abbey of Tihany.
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Badacsony
Badacsony and its surroundings offer many hiking routes where you can discover traces of the area's volcanic past and its wineries, with beautiful panoramas over Lake Balaton. Szigliget Castle, Szent György Hill and the Kis- and Nagy-Somló hills are also great places for a hike.
Keszthely Hills
The Keszthely Hills are recommended for those who like hilly, wooded surroundings. Several hiking routes pass through the Balaton Uplands National Park, offering a close-to-nature experience. Along the way you can visit Festetics Palace, Helikon Park and several high points with stunning views.
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Káli Basin
The Káli Basin is one of the jewels of the Balaton Uplands, offering a unique experience thanks to its special geography. The hiking routes let you admire the basalt columns, visit the Hegyestű geological site and discover the basin's stunning natural beauty.
Balaton Uplands National Park
The park covers more than 56,000 hectares and offers visitors countless protected natural treasures. It includes the Kis-Balaton, an important bird sanctuary, and the ruins of Szigliget Castle, which offer a breathtaking view.
Balaton cycle path
Although not a hiking route in the traditional sense, cycling around Lake Balaton lets you discover many beautiful places. The full loop is a longer trip, but it can also be done in shorter sections.
So the Balaton region offers nature lovers not only lakeside relaxation but also active leisure. With its varied landscapes, diverse plants and wildlife, and cultural and historical sights, every hiker can find a route they love.