Lake Héviz can be found in the middle of Héviz, Hungary, just adjacent to the northern slope of Mount Keszthely. This body of water is the world’s largest swimmable thermal lake that forms naturally and has animal and plant life living in it.
This geothermal body of water is a beautiful place where people can enjoy soaking, swimming, and spending time with others. Admission is sold in three-hour sessions, day passes, and multi-hour passes that can be used over several days. Visitors can also purchase add-ons, time extensions, and other services offered at the facilities.
History
Legend has it that a Christian nurse raised a Roman child named Flavius at Pannonia. The boy’s health was terrible, but his father was a war hero, so the nurse prayed to the Virgin Mary for a miracle.
After she prayed to the Holy Mother, she saw a spring of healing water emerge, and the kid washed in it daily. The hot spring water and the steaming clay strengthened the child’s physique immensely.
The young man grew up to be Flavius Theodosius, who, in 391 AD, established Christianity as the official religion of the Eastern Roman Empire. The therapeutic waters of the spring have been nourishing Lake Hévz visitors ever since.
Mineral Hot Springs
The lake formed with its primary source bubbling up since 20,000 to 22,000 years ago. Because the springs constantly flow, the water stays at a comfortable temperature, so there is never a bad season for soaking. The entire lake is replenished roughly every three days with its continuous movement.
From a low of 23-25°C/73-77°F in the winter to a high of 36-38°C/97-100.4°F in the summer, the water temperature is rather varied. As one sits in it, they get a massaging effect from the water as it runs from left to right and up from the bottom.
With a max depth of 38 meters/125 feet, this 4.4-hectare/2.8 acre-lake also has a few shallow areas that are great for wading. Visitors can rent flotation devices and foam noodles for lounging in the water.
Many parts of the lake are home to diverse plants, small animals, and fish. Water lilies are very common and dotted all the way up the shores.
Other Activities
Even if soaking in hot springs isn’t your priority, Lake Hévz is an excellent pick for a vacation thanks to its many Western European spas and other wellness offerings. Indulge yourself with an underwater jet massage, the salt cave, the therapeutic mud pool, or a steam bath, to name a few options.
In addition to being a great place to relax, the area has a lot of fun things to do, like horseback riding, biking, hiking, and dining at some of the best restaurants in the region.
At the bathhouse, several health-related experiences are provided and tailored to athletes, dental wellness, diets, and people who need a closer look at their physical capabilities. These health programs can range from one day to several days.
Details
Address: Hévíz, 8380 Hungary
Phone: +36 83 540 131
Season: Year-round
Website: heviz.hu/hu
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