Home to the world's largest natural thermal lake, this Hungarian spa town draws visitors year-round to its warm, mineral-rich waters known for healing properties.
Hévíz, a small town in western Hungary, centers around the world's largest swimmable thermal lake. You can float among water lilies in the 47,500-square-meter lake, where water temperatures stay between 24°C and 37°C throughout the year. Walk through medieval wine cellars carved into hillsides, swim in thermal waters while snow falls around you, or cycle along marked trails connecting to nearby Lake Balaton.
Swimming in the Thermal Lake
Natural springs 38 meters below the surface completely renew the lake's water every 72 hours. The water contains calcium, magnesium, and hydrogen carbonate, which help with rheumatic diseases and joint problems. Enter the lake through the central spa building, where you'll find indoor and outdoor pools, changing rooms, and medical facilities.
Medical Treatments at Hévíz Spa
The spa complex uses traditional Hévíz Therapy, a treatment method developed since 1795. You can choose from thermal mud applications, underwater massage, and specialized exercise programs. Doctors at the medical center use modern diagnostic equipment, including X-ray machines and laboratories, to create personalized treatment plans.
Getting to Hévíz
Take a direct Volánbusz coach from Budapest to Hévíz (2-3 hours). By train, travel to Keszthely station and connect to Hévíz by local bus (4-5 hours total). Sármellék International Airport (Hévíz-Balaton Airport) connects to several European cities.
Wine and Food in Egregy
Walk up the hill to Egregy district, where wine cellars built into the hillside serve local wines like Cserszegi fűszeres. Many cellars prepare traditional Hungarian dishes. The district's farmers' market runs on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, selling local honey, cheese, sausages, and seasonal produce.
Roman Sites
The Egregy district contains ruins from the 1st to 5th centuries. Visit Villa Rustica to see preserved Roman buildings, and explore the ruin garden with its collection of ancient stones and building fragments. The local museum displays Roman coins, pottery, and everyday items found during excavations.
Year-Round Activities
Swim in the 24°C lake waters while snow falls during winter months. In summer, arrive early to watch water lilies bloom as the water warms to 37°C. Follow marked trails through the surrounding countryside by foot or bicycle. Lake Balaton lies 20 minutes away by car for sailing and swimming.
