March 22 is World Water Day! – Learn more about the water sources that feed Lake Balaton and its surrounding area

Lake Balaton is the largest lake in Central Europe and a defining feature of Hungary’s landscape, and is also home to numerous wonders. To mark World Water Day, we set out in search of watermills, springs, and mineral waters—natural treasures that tell stories of the distant past. Lake Balaton and its surroundings are not just about summer and the beach. If you stray a little from the beaten path, you can discover places where you can get a closer look at a whole new side of the water— in the wheels of old mills, in quiet springs, or in the depths of healing lakes.

According to historical records, several hundred mills operated in the area around Lake Balaton during the Middle Ages, many of which began to decline by the mid-20th century, and today only a few operational mills remain. In recent years, however, they have been coming back to life: here and there, we can find more and more places where these structures function as monuments or museums or even operational mills that are open to visitors. 

In this small village with a population of barely two thousand, in Örvényes, a mill was already in operation as early as 1055, owned by the Benedictines of Tihany. The building visible today, one of the most beautiful industrial heritage gems of the Balaton Uplands, was built in 1758 on the banks of the Pécsely Stream.

Veszprém’s youngest watermill and the only one that has survived intact and is still in operation. It began operating in the 1800s and has since undergone numerous renovations and changes in ownership. The mill is still open to visitors: you can not only gain insight into the history of mills and traditional crafts, but also participate in a live milling demonstration.

The springs once served not only as sources of drinking water but also held sacred significance, and it was believed that with their help, we could refresh not only your body but also your soul. 

In Vászoly, located between Pécsely and Dörgicse, you’ll find St. James' Spring, where pilgrimages are organized every year. Next to the Spring Lake, you’ll find a drinking fountain and a small water stage. The spring was named after Vászoly’s patron saint, Saint James, and according to village legends, it has healing properties. 

Almás Spring, located right next to the ruins of the church in Kövesd, is one of the most visited attractions in Aszófő. This is no coincidence, as not only can you enjoy the wonderful panoramic views of Lake Balaton and the Tihany Peninsula here, but you can also fill your bottles with spring water. 

Over the decades, the spring—which was used for medicinal purposes in the 20th century—has become one of Hungary’s most popular mineral water sources— the spring and the drinking fountain built nearby are worth a brief stop during an outing, as they are easily accessible by car or bicycle from Kékút’s main street. 

When we think of mineral waters and the Lake Balaton region, the name Hévíz is the first thing that comes to mind. The spa is the world’s largest biologically active natural spring, which heals both your body and our soul. Its effectiveness results from the combined effects of various healing factors, such as the thermal effect of water, its mass, constant flow, and gas content. 

Less well-known than Hévíz is the hidden gem of the southern shore, Csiszta Spa, where locals have long since discovered the beneficial effects of the water. The healing waters of Csiszta are rich in minerals, and is particularly effective in treating rheumatic, musculoskeletal, and gynecological conditions. 

The sour water of Füred has long been one of the town’s landmarks, though it’s considered a rarity on the list, since not all springs currently have official medicinal water certification, and unlimited consumption is not recommended. Regardless, the water is extremely popular among locals, and many people still visit the area today for its refreshing and unique taste.