Those who want to admire the beauty of the Balaton region should take a camera, a video recorder or even an easel when they go to the lookout points. Don't miss the sunset over the lake, often referred to as the Golden Bridge.

A special world unfolds itself before us in the valley encircled by long-extinct volcanos. The lava solidified into columns in the side of basalt cliffs look like church organs, while stone idols of various shapes greet the traveller at the foot of the hills. The winding passages carved into the limestone leading to caverns with underground lakes will tempt the whole family on an unforgettable excursion. The castles and palaces nestling on the summits of the northern shore have witnessed stirring times over the years. Their current occupants put the clock back, and organise castle festivals to demonstrate the daily lives of the medieval lords to visitors. The churches standing on the shore are of interest not only to the faithful but also to lovers of architectural masterworks.

The region of Badacsony represents the harmony of man and nature. Vineyards now occupy the slopes of the once fearsome hills. Tradition has it, that the fire of dead volcanos survives in the wines made from these grapes.

The lake cave of Tapolca, a small town hiding behind the St. George Mountain, is worth visiting by rowing boat, after which visitors can relax on the shore of the mill lake, which is fed by the waters of the cave. The basalt "organs" of the St. George Mountain are not far from the lake.

The Badacsony Hill, the best-known grape-producing hill of the region, can be seen from afar, thanks to its individual shape. At the regularly held autumn Vintage Days, everyone can try the famous Szürkebarát (Grey Monk) of Badacsony, or Kéknyelű.

 ^TOP