Hévíz is a small town 6 kilometres from Keszthely at the western end of Lake Balaton, built around an extraordinary natural feature: a thermal lake fed by a thermal spring that renews the lake’s water very quickly, at 36 to 38 degrees Celsius at the source. The lake maintains a surface temperature of 24 to 26 degrees Celsius even in winter, making outdoor thermal bathing possible year-round, which makes it unusual among natural thermal lakes in Europe.
The Lake and Its Properties
The Hévíz thermal lake is often described as the largest natural thermal lake in the world that is open for bathing. The water is sulfurous, mildly radioactive (within safe bathing limits), and rich in calcium, magnesium, hydrogen carbonate, and sulfate. The therapeutic properties attributed to the water, relief from joint pain, rheumatic conditions, and musculoskeletal problems, have been the basis of Hévíz’s reputation as a spa destination since the late 18th century.
Visitors enter via a wooden bathing platform extending from the shore over the water. Water lilies (the pink lotus native to Asia but naturalised at Hévíz) cover sections of the surface in summer.
Water temperature: 24 to 26 degrees Celsius in winter, 28 to 30 degrees in summer. The spring source is 36 to 38 degrees; the water cools as it spreads across the lake.
Visiting
Entry tickets have been sold for timed sessions or full-day visits. Check the current options and prices on the lake’s official website.
Facilities: bathing platform, changing rooms, lockers, cafe and restaurant. The traditional bathing gown specific to Hévíz is available for rent and is appropriate attire on the platform.
Best time: any season produces a rewarding visit; winter bathing in the steam-covered lake has a specific atmospheric quality. Summer brings water lilies; autumn has warm water and reduced crowds.
Getting There from Budapest
By train to Keszthely (approximately 2.5 to 3 hours from Budapest Déli), then bus or taxi 6 kilometres to the lake. Combine with Keszthely’s Festetics Palace and Tihany for a 2-day western Balaton itinerary.
Related: Lake Balaton Hub | Thermal Baths Hub | Day Trips Hub