HÉVÍZ

LAKE HÉVÍZ
The Healing Thermal Wonder

The centerpiece of the town, Lake Hévíz, is a natural thermal lake renowned for its healing properties. Fed by a combination of hot and cold springs, the lake maintains a pleasant temperature year-round (33–38°C in summer and around 23–25°C in winter), allowing for open-air bathing in every season.

The lake is surrounded by lush nature, with floating water lilies and mineral-rich mud that has been used in natural therapies for centuries. Spa and wellness centers offer a wide range of treatments including hydrotherapy, mud packs, and massages, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The St. Andrew Hospital for Rheumatology and Medicinal Spa Hévíz is one of the major health care service providers in Hungary, which provides a wide range of services belonging to medical tourism. Hévíz Medicinal Bath and St. Andrew’s Hospital for Rheumatology consists of three units, which include the following: Lake Hévíz, St. Andrew’s Hospital for Rheumatology, and Hotel Spa Hévíz****. These units provide health care services, recreation and rehabilitation.

WHAT TO SEE
In the city of Hévíz

While Lake Hévíz is the town’s centerpiece, there’s much more to explore in and around this charming spa town, from peaceful nature walks to Roman history and adventurous outdoor activities.

• Dr. Schulhof Promenade – Beautifully landscaped with sculptures and fountains

• The Church of the Holy Spirit – Modern, striking architecture with symbolic seven towers

• Hévíz Farmers’ Market – Local produce, handmade goods, and artisan products

• Pallóösvény – The Forest Boardwalk. Tucked into the woods behind the lake is the Pallóösvény, a tranquil wooden boardwalk trail weaving through forest and marshland. This easy, scenic walk allows you to experience the unique wetland ecosystem surrounding Lake Hévíz, with interpretive signs about the flora, fauna, and geology of the area.

• The Zsilip Stream – Just a short walk from the main spa area, you'll find the Zsilip, a small, warm-water stream that flows from the thermal lake into the surrounding wetlands. This natural outflow creates a unique spot where locals and travelers swim for free in the gently steaming water, surrounded by trees and nature.

ROMAN RUINS
in Egregy

Hévíz isn’t just about water — it’s about history too. In the Egregy district, you’ll find the remains of a 2,000-year-old Roman villa and cemetery, showcasing the area’s ancient past as a Roman settlement.

Highlights include:

• Preserved Roman tombstones

• Foundations of ancient structures

• A small 13th-century Romanesque chapel nearby

• It’s a peaceful, open-air historical site surrounded by vineyards and walking trail, history meets nature in the best way.

• Stroll the wine street lined with rustic cellars and family-run taverns

• Taste local wines such as Olaszrizling, Kékfrankos, and Muscat Ottonel

Egregy is especially lively in the evenings during the summer season, when live folk music and warm hospitality fill the hill with a festive mood.

WHAT TO DO
In the city of Hévíz

Looking to add a bit of adventure to your stay? Hévíz and the surrounding region offer a range of exciting activities beyond the spa:

• Balaton Ballooning: Enjoy a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Lake Balaton, Hévíz, and the surrounding vineyards. A bucket-list experience with stunning panoramic views and photo opportunities.

• Canoeing on the Hévíz Stream: Paddle down the warm Hévíz-Brook toward Lake Balaton. Guided tours are available and suitable for all skill levels. Great for spotting wildlife and enjoying the peaceful natural surroundings.

• Cycling Trails: The area is bike-friendly, with marked trails leading through forests, vineyards, and to nearby towns like Keszthely. Rent bikes locally or join guided cycling tours.

• Nature & Wine Walks: Take an easy hike through the Egregy vineyards, stopping at wine cellars along the way. Enjoy picnic spots, sunset views, and the flavors of Zala county wines.

GASTRONOMY
Local Flavors & Regional Wines

Hungarian cuisine is rich, comforting, and full of character and Hévíz delivers it with heart. From market-to-table restaurants to hilltop wine gardens, you’ll find plenty to savor.

Local Must-Try Dishes:

• Goulash soup with paprika and dumplings

• Stuffed cabbage with sour cream

• Zander (pike-perch) grilled or in fish soup

• Somlói galuska – a traditional Hungarian dessert with sponge cake and chocolate sauce

Downtown Restaurant Recommendations:

• Macchiato Caffé & Lounge – A modern bistro perfect for breakfast, coffee, or a glass of wine.

• Teri Mama Vendéglője – Homestyle flavors in a cozy, old-house ambiance near the Roman ruins.

• Kocsi Csárda – Cozy, rustic, and loved by locals for hearty portions.

• La Montanara – Italian-Hungarian fusion with great pizza and wines.

For lighter bites and drinks:

• Café Relax – A quiet spot near the lake for cakes and coffee.

• Kocsi Bar – Known for cocktails and live music evenings.

• Wine & Shop Hévíz – Tasting bar with regional wines, cheese boards, and local delicacies.

  
  

Wine & Gastro Spots

• Öreg Harang Borozó (Egregy) – A cellar-style wine tavern offering game meats, local wines, and unique dining experiences.

• Egregy Wine Cellars & Rózsakert Wine Restaurant – One of the most charming hillsides for wine and regional tapas alike

• Vinoteka & Wine Bar – Wine bar and jazz club atmosphere, known for its regional wines, pizza, and lively ambiance