Before the arrival of the festival crowds, the Kertem Camping Site in Zamárdi hosted kids who, under normal circumstances, could probably never have visited Lake Balaton. We wanted to see for ourselves what the camp organized by the Age of Hope foundation was like.

Everyone loves holidaying at Lake Balaton, and kids are especially fond of a summer camp experience. Yet, there are some who can only dream of such a luxury. Opened in 2013 in Zamárdi, the Kertem Camping Site exudes a cosy, ruin pub-like vibe. Last year it was mainly the haunt of those attending Balaton Sound and Strand Festival. Before this year’s Sound, disadvantaged children were given the chance to pitch their tents for a few days here. At the summer camp of the Age of Hope foundation 33 kids from villages in Northern Hungary, from Budapest children’s homes and from Ócsa could enjoy a bit of beach time under the supervision of high school volunteers. The Balaton became the Riviera for them, at least for a week.