Holiday at Lake Balaton – Zamárdi among the top destinations

Sunsets, beaches and everlasting memories - this is our Lake Balaton!

Lake Balaton holds a special place in the hearts of many of us. When we went on holiday at Lake Balaton as children, we learned to paddle boat, swim, build sandcastles, and fish. It was here that we tasted our first lángos with sour cream and cheese and discovered our favourite ice cream. As teenagers and young adults, it was the place where we had our first independent holidays with friends, where we had those memorable conversations on the pier until dawn and where some of us had our first great love. Lake Balaton is a safe place to return to, to relax, recharge, reminisce and experience new things.

The different regions of the lake offer different qualities: elegant wine regions and rugged mountain slopes on the northern shore, and unique panoramas, bustling holiday towns and hidden treasures of nature on the southern shore.

Because Lake Balaton is so versatile, it's not easy to choose where to spend your next holiday at Lake Balaton. What to choose when a northern wine tour sounds tempting, but you're also in the mood for a southern sunset? How to choose if you want to combine active programmes with a comfortable holiday?

There is a town that could be called the essence of Lake Balaton, where you can get everything you want. Below, we show you what Zamárdi has done to deserve to be mentioned among the best holiday destinations.

Why Zamárdi?

1. Perfect location

Whether you are coming from the north or the south, Zamárdi is easily and quickly accessible. From Budapest, it can be reached in an hour on the M7 motorway, and if you are coming from the north-western region, Győr or Sopron, you should take the ferry to Tihany and cross Lake Balaton in style.

The neighbouring Szántód Ferry is a great option, even if you're staying in Zamárdi but fancy a little adventure on the north coast. Getting on the water is always the highlight of a holiday. The iconic Tihany peninsula is a pleasant 15-minute ferry ride away, where visitors are greeted by a picturesque village, the Benedictine Abbey of Tihany and, in June, fragrant lavender fields.

Zamárdi and the surrounding area are also home to a range of quality venues where you're sure to find your favourites. The Kőröshegy Lavender Field is one of the largest flower gardens on the south coast, within half an hour's bike ride. And the Zamárdi Adventure Park is located in a vast wooded area just 100 metres from the Zamárdi-Felső train station. One of the most popular destinations in recent times, the Szántódpuszta Majorság, is only a 13-minute bike ride away.

2. Excellent open beach

If you're on holiday at Lake Balaton, then beach experiences are the way to go! There's a huge free open beach on the shores of Zamárdi. While unfortunately in many towns you have to pay for properly maintained bathing areas, here you get the beauty of Lake Balaton and the extensive infrastructure for free.

The well-kept beach area offers catering facilities, changing rooms, showers and clean toilets. On the beach paddle boats, windsurfing, SUP rental and a modern playground provide fun for children and adults alike.

Alongside the busier beach life, the three-kilometre-long stretch of coastline also offers quieter, calmer spots for those who want to avoid the crowds.

The south shore is always the perfect choice for families, as the gradually deepening water makes it safe for younger children to swim. At the end of the open beach on Kilátó Street in Zamárdi, you'll also find a sandy beach, where you can build a sandcastle with the little ones or sunbathe while the fun continues.

3. Dog-friendly beach

Want to enjoy a holiday at Lake Balaton with your dog? Sounds good, doesn't it? Mirabella Camping in Zamárdi has a unique enclosed dog-friendly beach where our four-legged friends can also enjoy a fun swim.

If you want to bring your pet with you, choose Platán Hotel! Not only do we offer you comfortable, air-conditioned rooms and a shady garden, but we also provide our guests with free access to the Mirabella Camping dog-friendly beach!

4. A paradise for water sports

The Windsurfcenter awaits wave lovers on the Zamárdi beach! You can also rent a surfboard, SUP and e-catamaran and take a surfing course. Thanks to the enthusiastic instructors, you could also get an international surfing certificate during your holiday at Lake Balaton.

Surf lessons - photo source windsurfcenter.hu

Zamárdi also attracts water sports enthusiasts, as the town is home to the Balaton Boat Race, which is a great success every year.

The "Row it crosswise!" event will take place on 12 July 2025. You can enter the competition in kayak, canoe, dragon boat and SUP categories.

5. Festival & holiday at Lake Balaton in Zamárdi

Zamárdi is the perfect host for large-scale events. The town hosts prestigious music events such as the STRAND Festival and ZamJam. If you're looking to add a real festival feel to your holiday, take your pick. The programme promises to be exciting again this year.

• Pentecost Season Opener & Cooking Competition - 7 June A summer cavalcade with delicious food and music.
• XI Rosé Festival - 17-20 July Four days when the wines of Balaton and Villány dominate the scene!
  Concerts, gastronomic experiences and a great atmosphere in the Event Space!
• Balatoni Játszadalom - 7-10 August Traditional family activities, games and fun for young and old.
• STRAND Festival 2025 – 20-23 August Huge parties, top performers and the biggest fireworks show on Lake Balaton!

6. Dazzling views

The panoramic view of the south coast is simply unbeatable. Once you've seen it, you'll never forget the distinctive lines of the mountains opposite and the beauty of the sunsets. Zamárdi has special qualities also in relation to the southern coast, as here you can admire the evening lights just opposite the Tihany peninsula. And that's not all!

Climb the stairs of the Kőhegy Lookout and enjoy a stunning panorama: From Siófok to Tihany, from Badacsony to Szántód you can enjoy the beautiful waters of Lake Balaton - photography is a must here!

7. Active recreation, diverse programmes

A holiday at Lake Balaton may be all about waking up in the morning and relaxing, but active leisure and new experiences are just as important. At Platán Hotel, we'll make sure you're perfectly comfortable, so you can set off on your adventures recharged. Step outside for a walk, and you’ll find the area is a true goldmine.

• Kőröshegy Lavender Field - Tulip season and lavender harvest
  Pick a huge bouquet of fresh tulips, take fabulous photos and enjoy the atmosphere of the sea of flowers! The tulip season runs until 21 April. And in June, it's all about the fragrant lavender!
• Szántódpuszta Majorság - History and experiences in one place!
  Interactive exhibitions, a themed playground, horse and pony stables, a tea garden and a trip back in time to 19th century farm life. Check out the programme, there are some great events on site from time to time!
• Zamárdi Adventure Park - Adrenaline and challenge!
  Rope courses, slides and obstacles await you from June in the huge green grove! An all-day programme where time is guaranteed to fly. The entrance is 100 metres from Zamárdi-Felső train station. Spring dates are also available for groups by prior registration.
• Trip to Tihany by ferry – Explore the other shore!
  Starting from Szántód, you'll find yourself on the iconic peninsula in no time. The Benedictine Abbey of Tihany, the charming village, the natural beauty of the inner lake and in June the Lavender Festival of Tihany can be the highlight of the trip.

8. Roaming in nature: panoramic tour of Zamárdi

An easy family excursion in the forests of Zamárdi or a leisurely ride on the bikes of Lake Balaton? The area is also a perfect destination for hiking and cycling exploration.

The winding hiking trail on the loess hills passes two panoramic viewpoints and also touches upon Zamárdi's main attractions: the local history house, open-air museum, Red Cross, Szamárkő, Kőhegy Lookout, and the Vaskereszt Reserve. The hike leads through the Iron Cross Forest Reserve to Szántód, where the railway station, bus stop or the Szántód Railway Station can be the end point.

The panoramic hike is easy, even with children.

Tip: You can extend the trip by a circular tour, so you can also visit Szántódpuszta and the church of Szent Kristóf.

9. Cycling adventures and races

If you're looking for a cycling experience, download the BalatonBike365 app and explore the routes around the lake. You can also rent a bicycle at Platán Hotel.

Zamárdi is not only an ideal destination for holidays, but also a popular base for passionate cyclists and enthusiastic supporters. Nothing proves this better than the fact that two popular events are linked to this exceptional settlement. If you like a challenge, join the spring or autumn bike race.

• Balaton Circle Cycling Tour – 9-11 May 2025, Zamárdi
  One of Hungary's biggest guided bike tours, where more and more people cycle around Lake Balaton every year!
• dm Balaton Run Kellys Bike Tour – 20 September, Zamárdi
  The second edition of this great cycling event will be held in the autumn, with a 500-person limit making it a comfortable race.

10. A charming little hotel: Platán Hotel Zamárdi

Zamárdi is full of experiences in all seasons - panoramic hikes, cycling adventures, water sports events and of course the endless tranquillity of Lake Balaton. But a really good holiday not only needs a variety of activities, but also the perfect accommodation! If you are looking for a comfortable place with a family atmosphere, where relaxation is really relaxation, then Platán Hotel Zamárdi is your base.

In the welcoming atmosphere of our friendly little hotel, it's nice to sit back and relax. Plus, this little paradise is just a few minutes' walk from the shores of Lake Balaton!

Why is Platán Hotel the best choice for a holiday at Lake Balaton?

• Comfortable rooms for a relaxing stay

  Our air-conditioned, spacious rooms come with private terraces and extra-comfy soft beds to give you a fresh start every morning.

• Generous breakfast buffet included in the room rate

  Here, fragrant pastries, fruit and vegetables, steaming coffee and a well-stocked table tempt you out of bed. We can also cater for special diets - just let us know when you book and we'll take care of your needs.

• Family-friendly environment, free baby-kit

  We also provide the crib, high chair, and baby bath to spare you from the hassle of carrying them. Spacious family rooms and a secure garden ensure a carefree holiday, and there's a fun playground for the kids.

• Green oasis for relaxation and games

  Platán Hotel is a little hidden gem. Our cosy little garden really completes the relaxation. In the shade of the plane trees, on the poolside or stretching out on a sun lounger, you'll find the perfect peace.

• Recharge in the Finnish sauna

  After a long day full of experiences, you can pamper yourself in our Finnish sauna. The hot air will blow away your troubles and you'll feel like you've been replaced. Wellness experiences such as a sauna or a refreshing splash in the outdoor pool make your holiday really extra special.

• Pet-friendly holidays

  A holiday at Lake Balaton wouldn’t be complete without your four-legged friend! Your dog, cat, or even your bunny can join you on holiday in our comfortable rooms. Don't forget the special offer: we'll give you free access to the dog-friendly beach at Mirabella Camping.

• Lake Balaton shore and gastronomy - just minutes from the accommodation

  The open beach is just a stone's throw from the hotel. And the restaurants in the area also offer gastronomic adventures. In the vicinity of Platán Hotel, you can enjoy fish dishes like zander fish and catfish, as well as homemade menus at the Főzelék Faloda. You can also explore the offerings of local wineries, but don't miss the world-famous Zamárdi pastry shop and its handcrafted ice cream!

Zamárdi is a place with a thousand faces, where you can find everything from modern forms of entertainment to programmes reminiscent of classic holiday atmosphere and is the perfect place for a holiday at Lake Balaton.

Book a comfortable room and discover what surprises the area has in store for you!

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