Balaton

Balaton, commonly referred to as Lake Balaton, is the largest freshwater lake by surface area in Central Europe. It is located in western Hungary, largely in the Transdanubian region, with its northern shore bordered by the Balaton-felvidéki (Balaton Uplands) and its southern shore facing the Tihany Peninsula and the Sió Channel area.

The lake covers about 594 square kilometers, is roughly 77 kilometers long, and up to about 7–8 kilometers wide. It is relatively shallow, with an average depth around 3 meters and a maximum depth near 12 meters. Its shoreline is extensive, and the lake hosts a variety of habitats, islands, and peninsulas. Water flows into Balaton from several streams and groundwater sources, while the primary outflow is through the Sió Channel, which connects the lake to the Danube River.

Around Balaton, the landscape includes notable features such as the Tihany Peninsula, the Badacsony and other volcanic hills, and the northern Balaton-felvidéki National Park, established to protect the regional flora and landscapes. The area supports wine production, especially on the northern shore, and hosts several towns and resorts. Siófok, Balatonfüred, Keszthely, and Tihany are among the best-known settlements associated with tourism, boating, and leisure activities. The lake is a popular destination for swimming, sailing, and events such as summer cultural festivals and concerts.

Environmental management has focused on reducing nutrient inputs to combat eutrophication and to preserve water quality for recreation and ecosystems. Ongoing measures involve wastewater treatment improvements and watershed-level conservation efforts. Balaton remains a central feature of Hungary’s natural and cultural landscape, attracting visitors from Hungary and beyond.