Balaton Uplands National Park Authority
Information:
Our visitor attractions are easily and quickly accessible from Zalakaros; they offer a rewarding and exciting way to spend your time, as well as opportunities for relaxation and entertainment for guests staying at hotels and spas in Zalakaros, all set in an unrivalled natural environment.
Guests wishing to explore the strictly protected area of Kis-Balaton and its well-deservedly famous world, which evokes the atmosphere of Tüskevár, can take part in a guided tour.
At nearly 1,000 m2 The primary aim of this large-scale exhibition space is to showcase the natural treasures of the Kis-Balaton area, which is subject to enhanced protection.
Kis-Balaton – which is a wetland of outstanding value even by European standards – is known to the public in many different ways: as a bird sanctuary, a national park, a Ramsar site, and the birthplace of the first nature conservation warden – the former „heron warden” – the birthplace of institutionalised nature conservation in Hungary, the romantic setting of István Fekete’s novels, the ‘fish nursery’ of Lake Balaton, a water protection system, and an ecotourism destination.
The main features of the visitor centre: an interactive exhibition, a cinema, a nature trail on the roof, a playground, a restaurant seating 100 people and a gift shop.
The Kis-Balaton Visitor Centre It is situated in Fenékpuszta, Keszthely, on the site next to the Kis-Balaton Research Centre, which serves as the starting point for our land-based and water-based tours showcasing the area’s wildlife: István Fekete Memorial Site, Kis-Balaton / Fenékpuszta / Diás Island.
Further information:
Kis-Balaton Visitor Centre
The reserve plays an important role in the survival of the buffalo, which is native to our country, and in the conservation of its gene pool; it is also a popular centre for showcasing the species.
This is home to Hungary’s largest herd of buffalo open to visitors. Binoculars are provided to help visitors observe the animals; with these, the lucky ones may spot not only the buffalo wallowing and grazing, but also the ground squirrels darting about. During the winter months, the buffalo are kept in and around the barn and in the enclosure, where they can be observed at close quarters. A signposted walking trail runs through the reserve, which is open all year round, whilst a playground and petting zoo await younger visitors. Inside the barn, visitors can view old photographs and the tools used in traditional buffalo husbandry. An exhibition in the reception building showcases the rich wildlife of Kis-Balaton.
In the reception building, you can buy publications, souvenirs and buffalo salami, as well as enjoy a coffee or refreshments.
The reserve, which is open all year round, features an 800-metre signposted walking trail, whilst a playground and petting zoo await the little ones. In the barn, visitors can view old photographs and tools used in traditional buffalo farming. The exhibition in the reception building showcases the rich wildlife of Kis-Balaton.
Further information:
Kápolnapuszta Buffalo Reserve, Kis-Balaton
In the village of Vörs stands a log cabin converted into a local history museum, which is an exceptionally well-preserved example of folk architecture from the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Visitors can learn about the traditional, everyday tools used by the people living around Kis-Balaton – such as reed cutters and rush gatherers – as well as fishing equipment and the way of life of the marsh dwellers who make their living from the marshes.
The first – and also the most beautiful – room in the house, the ‘clean room’, was not lived in; it was used only at times of birth, illness or death, or to accommodate guests. In the smoke kitchen, the smoke escaped through an opening cut into the ceiling and into the loft. Alongside the fire poker and the spinning wheel, the pantry displays countless household implements that have now fallen into oblivion. The living room, which opens off the end of the hallway, houses an exhibition on the aquatic life of Kis-Balaton.
Further information:
Vörsi Country House
Visits are only permitted with a guide!
The first 3 km section of the excursion can be completed as a passenger in an electric golf buggy, rather than in your own vehicle, or, from 15 July 2020, by canoe. Ticket prices for those travelling by private car, golf trolley or canoe can be found under ‘Ticket Prices’ and in the downloadable Director’s Instructions. Please note that the introductory section cannot be covered by bicycle; if you are arriving at the meeting point by bicycle, please book a seat on the golf cart in advance. As the golf trolley can carry a maximum of 13 passengers, we cannot guarantee that you will be able to book a seat in advance. Please wait for a confirmation email from our staff to confirm whether your booking has been successful.
Further information:
István Fekete Memorial Site, Kis-Balaton / Fenékpuszta / Diás Island
The starting point and meeting point for our tours: Kis-Balaton Visitor Centre
During our guided tours of Kis-Balaton, we explore the wetlands of this strictly protected area and their wildlife. Transport within the area is by the guests’ own vehicles (cars or coaches used by the group to arrive). Travelling slowly along the embankment system, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the area’s most spectacular sections and observe the birds without disturbing the wildlife.
Advance booking is required for guided tours!
Further information:
Guided tours at Kis-Balaton
The reed beds lining the shores of Lake Balaton provide an excellent nesting and foraging ground for numerous bird species, and the camp, which has been operating since 1985, makes the most of this, engaging not only in bird ringing but also in bird rescue and environmental education. The station makes an excellent stop for school trips, cycling tours, groups of friends seeking active recreation, and families. Visitors can learn about the birdlife of the reedbeds through detailed presentations, view injured birds and examine the egg collection on display in the exhibition rooms. Truly enthusiastic nature lovers can take to the water in a canoe to explore the wildlife of the Zala estuary and the reed beds, or get involved in camp life through voluntary work.
For larger groups, advance booking is required!
Information: Szabolcs Benke: +36 20 519 27 21
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