In the final stretch of the exam period, perhaps one of the most tempting fantasies is to leave behind the library’s towering shelves groaning with books, the pages of notes scattered across the desk waiting to be studied, and the still-untitled assignments waiting to be written on our laptops, and to plunge into Hungary’s lakes, which remain cool even in the summer heat. We can almost already smell the lángos and sunscreen, the loud music rings in our ears, along with the hustle and bustle of the crowd, punctuated now and then by a loud shout or burst of laughter. Another picture emerges as well: birds chirping, a gentle breeze rustling the leaves of trees and bushes, the petrichor and the scent of soaked earth after a thunderstorm, where the summer break is quietly, yet not monotonously, relaxing. If the latter image is a must-have summer weekend for you too, we have brought you some potential destinations from the country’s less frequented, quieter vacation spots.

Megyer Hill Tarn

Nestled in the Zemplén Mountains near Sárospatak, Megyer Hill Tarn is one of the country’s most extraordinary natural wonders. The mountain of volcanic origin was used for mining for a long time; stone was quarried for millstones, and after the mining ceased, the lake formed in the quarry pit. The tarn can be visited free of charge and can be reached via nature trails starting from the Ciróka Rest Park, making it perfect for a hiking and exploring programme that also leaves room for a visit to the lookout tower erected on the mountain and the Milling Workshop.

Lake regions other than Lake Balaton

The dominance of Lake Balaton cannot be ignored in Hungarian tourism; surely many Hungarians have more or less fond, nostalgic memories of the time spent there. However, if you would gladly try something else while still preferring to be close to the water, there are several other natural lakes in the country suitable for bathing and vacationing.

Lake Arló

A crystal-clear little lake hidden in the depths of the Óbükk region, around which a cheerful, colorful holiday village and a green-belt forest campsite have been developed. It is perfect as a venue for a little low-budget weekend getaway.

Lake Szelid

As lovely as its name suggests, this relatively shallow little lake in the Kiskunság region is just as gentle, which can even be considered warm at 28 ℃, and is also believed to possess mild therapeutic effects.

Lake Hársas

The “Lake Balaton of the Őrség,” the region of Western Hungary could deserve a separate section in this article. It is full of romantic, hilly hiking trails and diverse flora and fauna, which can be excellently experienced on the shores of Lake Hársas. Although it is primarily known as a fishing lake, taking a dip is also possible.

Lake Nagytevel

If you are around the Bakony region, the cool water of this reservoir is unmissable during the summer heatwaves, where you are guaranteed not to have your feet stepped on along the shore.

Of course, the Orfű Lakes in the vicinity of Pécs also deserve a mandatory place on the list, so that if you long for a pleasant, cooling swim after an exhausting exam period, you know exactly where to go.

Wine and grape-growing regions

Perhaps summer is not the first season that comes to mind when thinking about visiting wine regions; however, these areas have plenty of programmes in store during the summer as well. Even if you just desire tasting a good, refreshing dry white wine, you have the opportunity to do so. There are six wine regions in the country, with twenty-two wine districts, so at first it might seem a bit difficult to navigate or decide exactly where to go. This is exactly why the Bortúra mobile application and the Országos Bortúra (National Wine Tour) were created, both of which we recommend to everyone. Their constantly updated platforms provide information about current wine programmes and festivals, complete with ticket purchasing options. But if you would specifically like to visit a wine cellar or attend an early harvest event, you can also sign up for those.

This short, idea-sparking guide might help you refine your accommodation bookings if you don’t have any plans for the summer months yet. Still, we would suggest keeping your eyes peeled, as there are still many great activities, festivals, and buzz being prepared in Hungary, even if you are more drawn to the hustle and bustle.