Lake Balaton is the largest lake in Hungary and the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe.
Located in western Hungary, Lake Balaton is a shallow, elongated lake with a surface area of about 600 square kilometres. Its average depth is only a few metres, so the water can warm substantially during summer. The lake’s shallow character also makes it vulnerable to changes in rainfall, river inflow, and evaporation.
Balaton is Hungary’s best-known inland holiday destination. Resorts, beaches, sailing facilities, and vineyards line much of its shore, while the northern side includes the volcanic hills of the Balaton Uplands. The lake’s western end contains extensive reed beds and wetland habitats.
Lake Balaton should not be confused with Lake Neusiedl, which lies partly in Hungary but is shared with Austria and is much shallower. Balaton is also different from the much larger European lakes farther north, such as Lake Ladoga and Lake Vänern.