Located on the Hungarian spa road, the spa town of Bad Heviz is a very special destination. The city is located on the largest natural thermal lake in the world. Characterized by historic spa facilities and embedded in a particularly picturesque landscape, the small town offers the opportunity to experience Hungary from its most beautiful side.
Cures not far from Lake Balaton
The history of the town is closely linked to the importance of the thermal lake. Even the Romans appreciated the healing effects of the world’s largest thermal lake. Haviz became one of the most famous seaside resorts in the country towards the end of the 18th century. In 1795, the first bathhouses and spa facilities were built by Count György Festeticx, after the therapeutic effect of the thermal water was scientifically proven.
With increasing demand, more spa facilities were built in the 1960s and the number of spa guests rose steadily. Today, the Hévíz is an attraction for nature lovers, wellness seekers and people with chronic and degenerative joint diseases.
The healing lake invites you to swim all year round, because the approximately 4.4-hectare lake is fed by a thermal spring from a crater. In summer, the lake offers bathers a water temperature of 33 to 36 °C and in winter around 25 °C. Rich in sulfur, carbon dioxide, calcium, magnesium and hydrogen carbonate, the lake is perfect for achieving physical relaxation. Accordingly, bathing in the lake is particularly indicated for rheumatic and motor complaints. The sea mud is also used in the field of physiotherapeutic measures, which are offered in the town’s spa houses. The water can also be used as part of a drinking cure to counteract stomach problems and digestive problems.
Relaxation and activity according to personal preferences
Even though the wide range of spa and wellness facilities in Bad Heviz invites you to relax, there are numerous opportunities for varied leisure activities in and around the town. A balloon ride is a special experience. This allows you to explore Lake Balaton from a new perspective, with its rolling hills, lush vineyards and authentic villages. In addition, Lake Balaton is considered a paradise for anglers and birdwatchers. In addition, Lake Balaton is ideal for a variety of water sports activities. Particularly attractive is a promenade boat trip starting from the port of Keszthely with the nostalgic ship Csobánc.
The charming region also invites you to take long walks, hikes and bike tours. In addition to Bad Heviz, there are wonderful Hungarian towns such as Keszthely, Gyenesdiás, Zalakaros, Balatongyörök and Vonyarcvashegy, each with its own unique charm. Such excursions can also be combined very well with a wine tasting in one of the numerous wineries.
If you want to get active during your stay in Hévíz, you can visit the Imperial Golf Club on the north-western shore of Lake Balaton, work out with squash, clay pigeon shooting, water sports, play tennies and much more.
Sights and excursion destinations in and around Hévíz
A stroll through Hévíz is an experience in itself due to the numerous historical buildings. A very special eye-catcher is the Holy Spirit Church in the city center. The church building, which was built between 1998 and 1999, impresses with its unusual architecture. Due to the very good acoustics, chamber music concerts are regularly held in the church. Directly next to the church is the “Nymph” fountain, which is considered the landmark of the city. If you are interested in the history of the city, a visit to the Heviz Museum Collection should not be missed. In addition to the interesting permanent exhibitions about the history, the well-known inhabitants and the traditions of the city, this museum also offers small art exhibitions.
A visit to the town of Kestzthely, only 8 km from Hévíz, is also highly recommended, as it is home to the palace of the Festetics family, built in the 18th century on the shores of Lake Balaton. The historic building is characterized by its French architecture. An extensive weapons exhibition, a large library and the unique architecture are extremely worth seeing. Readings, exhibitions and concerts are regularly held in the rooms, so it is worth taking a look at the region’s calendar of events. The palace visit can be combined with a detour to the Balaton Museum in Keszthely, which sheds light on the nature, history and traditions of the region.
One of the important sights of the region is Sümeg Castle, which is located in the small town of the same name. The castle from the 11th century is the oldest castle in the country. In the rooms of the lavishly restored castle, not only old knight’s armour and an extensive collection of weapons can be admired, but archaeological finds are also exhibited here. A special highlight are the knights’ tournaments that take place annually in August.
