A weekend on the southern shore of Lake Balaton, according to Gabi Szikra
Chef Gabi Szikra recommends Fonyód and Badacsony, with lakeside walks, kéknyelű cellars, local markets and ice cream parlors, on the southern shore of Lake Balaton.
In Fonyód, Gabi Szikra recommends the Szaplonczay Promenade, which offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the lake: the opposite shore, with the volcanic hills of Badacsony and the western basin. "It's a must-do for locals, but surprisingly, many tourists still miss it," he says. According to the chef, a sunset stroll alone justifies the detour.
From Fonyód, the next stop is Badacsony. The boat trip between the two banks is both transportation and an experience. Many guests combine a stay in Fonyód with a full day visiting wineries on the opposite bank. In Badacsony, it's best to let the mountains guide you: the Rózsakő mountain, the vineyard-lined roads, and the wineries themselves define the character of the region.
Every visit should begin with a tasting of kéknyelű, an iconic variety rarely found in this form elsewhere. For breakfast, the chef mentions La Téné and recommends Ádám Mede's restaurant, highly regarded in the area. For a leisurely glass of wine, Németh Pince, which offers mini-tastings and is located off the beaten path, is a great option.
One of the biggest advantages of the south coast is its extensive network of cycle paths. More and more people are cycling around the lake, on multi-day tours that stop in villages to discover their small beaches, markets, and restaurants. This pace allows you to discover much more than a car trip.
The Fonyód market is a must-see for a local souvenir. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, local producers, cheesemakers, bakers, and sausage makers fill their stalls, and among them you'll find antiques, books, porcelain, and curiosities. For ice cream, Florida Fagyizó, in nearby Balatonmáriafürdő, is almost always recommended, and many visitors frequent it during the warmer months.
On the south coast, the Kistücsök restaurant in Balatonszemes is one of the best known, and according to the chef, it offers a more sophisticated culinary experience. In Balatonlelle and the Kishegy region, events organized by local winemakers and restaurateurs, such as the Kishegyi Kortyok és Falatok programs, showcase the convergence of wine, landscape, and gastronomy.