Wildlife

The Balaton region reveals nature in all its glory. The lake itself is home to a range of fish, including pike-perch, bream, carp, eel and razor fish, while its reed beds harbour various species of waterfowl. The 60,000-hectare Balaton Uplands National Park stretches from the lake’s western tip and covers much of the area above the northern shore. Kis (or ‘Small’) Balaton is a vast reed bed and an exceptional birdwatching site. Up to 20,000 bean geese alight here during their migration, and the lake also holds all species of European heron, the great white egret and large numbers of nesting greylag geese. Kis Balaton is strictly protected, and you’ll need a guide to visit the bulk of it; you can arrange one by contacting the national park directorate (see below for website details).
Elsewhere, the dolomite slopes of the Keszthely Hills feature steppeland and dry scrub forest of Hungarian oak. Keep a look out for the rare leopard’s bane, and for the 1km-long ‘basalt road’ – an ancient lava formation. There are orchids to be found among the volcanic hills of Badacsony, Csobánc and Szent György, while near by you can view native Hungarian animal breeds at the Salföld Nature Conservation Site (www.kali.hu/salfoldmajor). The Tihany peninsula falls within the country’s mildest micro-climate, and there are significant populations of sub-Mediterranean plant species and typically Mediterranean fauna like the scops owl.
Balaton’s network of marked trails leads you to the very choicest natural cuts, whether you’re a hiker, cyclist or horse-rider. The Balaton Uplands National Park Directorate (www.bfnpi.hu) can organise guides and provide a map detailing the walking trails and viewing points. Several companies run wildlife tours to the region, including Ecotours (www.ecotours.hu).