Hungary makes you want to go on an active vacation

There are countless exciting ways to actively discover Hungary's diverse landscapes and the country's cultural and historical sights: hiking and cycling, golfing, on horseback or from the water. No matter which sport you prefer, this small country in the heart of Europe has unforgettable experiences in store for every active vacationer.

Ten national parks, nine nature parks, 22 forest areas, hundreds of nature trails and thousands of kilometers of hiking and cycling paths are just waiting to be explored. The varied long-distance hiking trails, for example, promise extensive hiking pleasure. The Mátra, Bükk and Zemplén mountains line up in the far north-east of Hungary. In this area, a total of 1,000 kilometers of marked hiking trails make the hearts of active holidaymakers beat faster. The Balaton Uplands National Park and the Bakony Mountains to the north, with their tranquil valleys, not only promise magical and relaxing hikes, but have also been offering ambitious climbers challenging, well-equipped routes for several years.



Biking fun throughout the country

Where, if not in Hungary, can you cycle so comfortably and impressively over hills and through valleys, in wide lowlands, along the shores of lakes and rivers and through UNESCO World Heritage and protected landscape areas? Spectacular views and unique experiences are the reliable companions on the tours. Around Lake Balaton, for example, there are 70 routes to choose from, which are tailored to the needs of different target groups such as families, amateur athletes or occasional cyclists. Along the more than 1,000 kilometers of marked cycle paths, there are more than 20 rest areas where you can take a well-deserved break, as well as three service centers in case you have a problem with your bike. Detailed information on the routes, cycle-friendly restaurants and accommodation can be found at www.balatonbike365.hu/de.

Hungary - an insider tip for golfers

Hungary is known for many things, but the country's golf courses don't immediately spring to mind. Quite wrongly! Because the country has developed into an up-and-coming golf destination over the last decade. With affordable green fees and attractive, varied courses, Hungary turns out to be a secret golfer's paradise on closer inspection. Less than ten kilometers from Hévíz is the small village of Zalacsány, home to Hungary's latest jewel of a green, designed by none other than the famous golf course architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. The championship golf course, which borders the Etyek wine region, also promises culinary delights combined with tee shots on manicured greens. Precise shots are required on the 18-hole course in Hencse, south of Balaton. The gently sloping, hilly terrain is dotted with impressive, huge trees, which can distract the occasional golf ball from its intended target.



Lake Balaton - much more than just a lake

With a water surface area of around 600 square kilometers and a length of 77 kilometers, Lake Balaton is the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe and spoils its visitors with around 2,000 hours of sunshine a year. Especially in the summer months, the lake guarantees glorious vacation weather and the turquoise-blue water with temperatures of up to 27 degrees invites you to enjoy a carefree swim. The lake is surrounded by volcanic mountains, on whose slopes lush green vines thrive. Whether sailing, surfing or kitesurfing - there are almost no limits to the water sports available on the huge lake. Sailing has a particularly long tradition on Lake Balaton, with Balatonfüred, Siófok, Balatonföldvar and Fonyód being the preferred meeting places for sailors. If you don't have your own boat, you can easily charter one - with or without a skipper.

Exceptional overnight stays

The global trend towards glamping, i.e. camping with a touch of luxury, has not stopped at Hungary. As a result, more and more extraordinary accommodations are springing up all over the country, promising a spectacular break with a good dose of romance. In Csóromföld near Kapolcs, for example, six wooden cabins have been built, which are modeled on the shapes of rocks and whose highlight is a large whirlpool on the covered terrace.

The eco-camp in Bodolybér offers traditional glamping tents with terraces, and in Bükkösd you can spend the night in a real covered wagon. If you want to try out the atmosphere of a cave dwelling, you have the opportunity to do so in Sirok. Fans of the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy can immerse themselves in the legendary saga world for at least one night in the hobbit dwellings in Üröm.



The elite of the sporting world meets in Hungary
■ "Blue Ribbon" (Kékszalag) sailing regatta
July 6-8, 2023, BalatonfüredEurope's oldest and longest sailing regatta celebrates its 55th edition this year. From Balatonfüred, hundreds of sailing boats will sail to Siófok, Tihanyi, Keszthely Bay and back in a maximum of 48 hours.
■ World Championships in Athletics
August 19 to 27, 2023, Budapest
More than 2,000 athletes from over 200 countries compete at the
third largest sporting event in the world. The venue will be the brand new, state-of-the-art National Athletics Center.
■ UEFA Europa League Final in Budapest
May 31, 2023, Budapest
The Hungarian capital and thus the Puskás Aréna, which was newly opened in 2019 and has a capacity of more than 65,000 spectators, will host the final of the
European Football Cup competition for club teams.

www.visithungary.com