Programs in the area

Colorful programs from the Zalakaros area

Kányavári Island

Kányavári Island is one of the most visited, freely accessible attractions of the Kis-Balaton, ideal for families, nature lovers and anyone looking for a short, pleasant walk.
A spectacular wooden bridge leads to the island, where the 1.5 km long „Great Crested Grebe Study Trail” begins. Created by the Balaton Uplands National Park, this educational route has 15 stops and can be comfortably completed in about an hour.
Visitors can spot herons, ducks and other wetland bhe northern part of the island offers the most sights, including a beautifully renovated wooden birdwatching tower. With a bit of lucird species along the route.
A small playground awaits children on the southern side, while seasonal stalls near the parking area offer local products, snacks and refreshments on busy days.

Kápolnapuszta Buffalo Reserve

The Buffalo Reserve plays a key role in protecting and preserving Hungary’s native buffalo population. It is the country’s most popular visitor site dedicated to this remarkable species and home to Hungary’s largest publicly accessible buffalo herd. Visitors can follow a marked walking trail and observe the animals with the help of an on-site telescope. Ground squirrels often dart across the fields, offering additional wildlife-watching opportunities.
In winter, the buffalo stay around the stable and paddocks, allowing much closer encounters.
For families, the reserve offers a playground, a petting area and exhibitions showcasing traditional buffalo keeping and the wildlife of the Kis-Balaton. The visitor centre has a small shop selling local souvenirs, publications and the famous buffalo salami, along with coffee and refreshments.
Contacts:

Kis-Balaton Visitor Centre

This modern and interactive visitor centre is a great starting point for exploring the area and a perfect choice even on rainy or cooler days.
Highlights:

    • Interactive exhibition on the wildlife of the Kis-Balaton
    • 27-minute nature film
    • Rooftop study trail with panoramic views
    • Outdoor playground for both children and adults
    • The Visitor Center is an ideal starting point for exploring Kis-Balaton, and a perfect program for rainy or cooler days.

Canoe tours on the warm waters of the Hévíz Canal

The Hévíz Canal – with its pleasantly warm water all year round – offers a unique canoeing experience for families, couples and groups of friends. Available until 15 March 2026, by prior booking (except 28 February).
Price:

  • 14 000 HUF / person
  • Discounts for children
  • Group discount: every 11th person free

Included in the tour:

  • Canoe trip on the Hévíz Canal
  • Buffalo-salami sandwich
  • A warm drink
  • A cup of hot tea
  • Required permits
  • Optional car transfer on request

Booking:
+36 70 645 7203 or +36 30 134 5202

Diás Island

The legendary landscape of the Tüskevár novel can be explored for real on Diás Island, located in the strictly protected heart of the Kis-Balaton. It is only accessible with a guide. Tours start from the Kis-Balaton Research House, and visitors reach the island with their own car.
Highlights include the memorial house of author István Fekete, his reconstructed study, and the memorial room of ornithologist Jakab Vönöczky Schenk. One of the island’s gems is „Matula’s Hut”, rebuilt based on descriptions in Tüskevár and a 1950 photograph, showing the traditional lifestyle of the former local fishermen.
The guided visit lasts about 1.5 hours, and school groups can request extra educational activities focusing on local fish and fishing traditions.

Vörs Folk House

The museum in the traditional „talpas house” presents tools and everyday objects once used around the Kis-Balaton, with a special focus on folk fishing methods and the lifestyle of the wetland’s former inhabitants, the „pákász” people.
Information:

Csillagvár

Named after its star-shaped layout, Csillagvár is a favourite destination for families. Built in 1823, the bright white building houses a wax exhibition of border-fort soldiers and a charming doll and plush toy display in the cellar. A 40-metre-deep well can also be seen in the entrance hall.
The courtyard features a petting area, a traditional-style tavern and numerous old rural tools and household items. A small archery range and a playground are also available for children.

Pálos Mill

The Pálos Mill in Zalamerenye dates back to the 15th century and originally belonged to the Pauline Order. Restored following the 1903 plans, it once again demonstrates the inner workings of traditional watermills.
Located along the Gátvíz Stream between Garabonc and Zalamerenye, it offers an up-close look at grain milling, millstones, roller mills, and the history of the Pauline monks and the last millers.
The walls display historic tools and documents, while the two overshot waterwheels provide an impressive mechanical demonstration.