Lake Balaton - the Hungarian See

The waters of Central Europe's largest lake quickly warm up with the sun's rays. Its southern shore is a favourite with families because, while the northern shore deepens rapidly, here the water deepens gradually, providing wide stretches of safe beaches perfect for wading in. As you might expect, marinas all around the lake are at the service of sailing devotees and there are water ski runs, as well as pedal boats and windsurfing boards for rent.

In an effort to safeguard the cleanliness of the water, private motor yachts, motorboats and jet skis are not allowed on Lake Balaton. Apart from these, visitors will find virtually limitless opportunities to pursue all kinds of water passions on this huge lake with its surface of 590 square kilometres. All around the lake you are sure to find beaches, promenades, piers and marinas.

The sun is at its best here shining an average of more than 2,000 hours a year and yielding exceedingly pleasant water temperatures of 25 to 27 degrees Centigrade. There is plenty of opportunity for sun bathing on grassy or sandy beaches as well as enjoying the warm water with its soft sandy bottom.