It would be a lie to claim that the image of the post-20 August, abandoned Balaton was but a popular error, like Balaton hake. Fortunately, more and more people are starting to view the autumn Balaton differently. The word about the growing number restaurants, hotels and wellness-specific spots, and wineries that are open all-year-round--so you can pop in for a few days or a few glass of wine even in the cold and wet month of November--is starting to spread
And whereas summer is about uptempo living--having the most fun possible in three month, with daytime beach-going and riding and nighttime parties--, autumn is about slowing down. To pick up the pace of hobby fishers, to wonder at the view, to run along the shore, to stare blank into your wine glass, and to dine out at your favourite summer spot when the waiter doesn't have to rush to re-lay the table.
There are two pre-requisites: your fave summer spot has to be open and you have to visit the Balaton in the autumn. The first is guaranteed, at least between 22 October and 2 November, thanks to the autumn sequel of the springtime Nyitott Balaton event series, named 'Ősszel is Balaton.
In May, many of you came and joined bike tours, got to know the sexy secrets of Balatonfüred, attended a picnics or enjoyed the spring sun, lounging in sunbeds. In the autumn, you are invited to wine tours, to taste restaurants' specials, to carve a jack-o'-lantern, and to watch classic Balaton movies.Don't worry, there are also indoor events in the cards, so weather won't be a problem.
We'd recommend the Zander Festival in Szigliget, or the Chocolate Festival in Balatonszárszó. The Becehegy of Balatongyörök belongs to the lesser known Balaton wine regions, which might just change now thanks to guided tours that you can also join. The Hegyestű, an exciting geological phenomenon near Zánka is perhaps better known, nevertheless, you can (re-)discover that as well with guides. Siófok will pay tribute to one of its great sons, the king of operetta, Emmerich Kálmán, which means that for example you can taste his favourite dishes at local restaurants and confectioneries. Jump aboard the Wine Boat in Keszthely to taste various local wines. and enjoy the screenings of classic Balaton-related movies (mostly Hungarian, like Liliomfi, Zimmer Feri, and Balaton retro) at multiple locations around the Lake. For the detailed schedule of events, check out the Nyitott Balaton site, or the dedicated We Love Balaton page.
Share your autumn moments with everyone on Facebook or on Instagram! Use the #osszelisbalaton hashtag! You might also bump into the giant version of your best shots around the Balaton: all you have to do is mail your favourite pic to this e-mail address by 28 September. If your photo is among the three that receives the most votes, it will be exhibited at multiple locations around Lake Balaton. See the rules and regulations here.
