Directly above a seven-meter-thick layer of peat , large quantities of warm healing water bubble up continuously from the earth. With an impressive area of 4.4 hectares, Lake Hévíz is the largest biologically active thermal lake in the world.
It is located in Hungary and is easily accessible from Vienna in about 2.5 hours by car. Surface water temperatures reach a pleasant 34 to 36 degrees Celsius in the summer. In the summer, you can enjoy the benefits of the healing water, which is good for joints and bones, and in the winter, the water remains pleasantly warm even when temperatures drop below freezing.
Even in the depths of winter, the temperature here never drops below 24 degrees Celsius. So you can swim outdoors all year round, while white and pink water lilies float on the water right next to you.
Healing Springs and Indian Plants
The water, rich in calcium and magnesium, originates from a 38-meter-deep spring cave of volcanic origin. The enormous flow rate of 410 liters per second ensures that the entire lake’s water is completely replaced every three and a half days.
As a result, the water quality remains consistently high. Due to its low radon content, the lake is said to have a pain-relieving effect on joint ailments.
But it’s not just people who appreciate the warm environment; small guppies (a species of fish) and colorful sunfish often dart about near the surface. However, the colorful water lilies, which were planted as early as 1898, are the true symbol of the spa town.
Prices and Tips for the Trip
Since the spa town of Hévíz is located near the western tip of Lake Balaton, a visit here can be easily combined with a trip to Lake Balaton. Before you step into the warm water, buy a standard timed admission ticket at the entrance.
A standard 3-hour admission ticket costs 4,500 forint, which is equivalent to about 11 to 12 euros. For that price, you can enjoy the spacious grounds and swim directly in the natural lake.
There are also numerous discounts available; for example, seniors pay only 4,000 forints. You can either opt for a quick stop or purchase a day pass for 7,500 forints. Be sure to check the website beforehand, though, as there is some construction work taking place this summer, which means certain areas of the spa will remain closed.
This is medically recommended
You should also keep in mind that the warm healing water noticeably stimulates circulation. For this reason, it’s medically recommended to take a short break on the loungers after no more than 30 minutes of swimming. This makes a day trip to the lake a truly relaxing experience.
But there’s also plenty to eat, as there are several well-stocked buffets on the grounds. While you can bring your own food, grabbing a regional snack right on site is usually more convenient.
🌊 Hévíz Thermal Lake, Hungary
📍 Address: Dr. Schulhof Vilmos sétány 1, 8380 Hévíz
