A Relaxed Weekend by Lake Balaton

How to plan a calm weekend by Lake Balaton with a swim, a fish lunch, a shore walk and a boat trip.

Lake Balaton is the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe, and it is surprisingly easy to reach from Budapest by train or car in under two hours. Pick a base in a small town rather than a busy resort, because guesthouses there are often cheaper and the evenings are quieter. Arriving on Friday afternoon gives you time to settle in before the weekend crowds arrive.

Saturday works well for a swim and a walk along the shore. The water warms up quickly in summer, and the shallow entry at many beaches suits families. Afterwards, look for a lunch of fried fish, such as fogas or carp, served with bread and a glass of local white wine from the nearby hills. Bring sunscreen and water shoes, since some shore paths are stony.

Sunday is ideal for a slow boat trip or a bike ride on the flat lakeside path. Morning light on the water is especially pretty, and the trains back to the city run regularly. Before you leave, check the timetable, since Sunday services can be less frequent than on weekdays. A small cooler bag with leftovers makes the return journey much more pleasant.