The region stays active in May in Veszprém and the Bakony-Balaton region

Let’s talk about the unique, immersive movement, the rugged cliffs of the Bakony Hills, or the sparkling waters of Lake Balaton—everything is in place for us to find new energy. Here are the programs and locations where you should get moving this spring.

In Veszprém, sports aren't just for the pros; the goal is to make exercise a part of everyday life, whether it’s a spontaneous jog or an organized community workout. The city’s energy is at its peak during this time: squares and parks come alive, and on every corner you’ll find another reason to lace up your sneakers. 

At CODE, we are proud that Veszprém, together with the Bakony-Balaton area, is European Region of Sport in 2026. We believe in the power of community—and in the fact that movement is not just about performance, but about connection. To yourself and to one another. This isn’t a traditional gym class: it’s the perfect choice for those who want to break away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, slow down, and find their inner balance.

The area in the Veszprém Valley is at its most beautiful in May, when everything is in bloom between Betekints Valley and the castle walls. The running route along the stream is ideal for beginner joggers, while one of the country’s most beautiful playgrounds awaits kids near the castle. The fitness park and well-maintained walking paths in the area ensure that everyone, from grandmothers to the youngest kids, can get some exercise. When you’re tired, you can recharge your vitamin D levels by relaxing on a deck chair by the nearby lakes.

Did you know that in Veszprém, your wallet can take a break while you work out? The modern sports facilities behind Pannon University (Hóvirág Street) are open to everyone during the day, making them the perfect spot for a friendly game of streetball or volleyball, and you can even run a few laps on the track. In addition, in the spirit of the European Region of Sport 2026 program, it’s worth paying attention to the city’s public spaces: the Jutasi Road running track and the nearby fitness parks are open 24/7 for those looking to get active. As part of the European Region of Sport 2026 program series, free “neighborhood” exercise sessions and guided walks are held regularly.

Just a short drive from Veszprém, the rugged landscapes of the Bakony Hills immediately awaken one’s sense of adventure. Amid the hills, you can challenge not only the elevation changes but also yourselves, while every member of the family finds the challenge that suits them. This month, the Bakony-Balaton region becomes a true giant’s playground, where nature provides the backdrop for the most memorable experiences. If nature has always appealed to you more than man-made sports facilities, choose from the Bakony’s countless hiking trails and free-to-visit lookout points, such as Gulya Hill Lookout, which offer a perfect (and free!) weekend outing.

The adventure park located at the gateway to the Bakony Hills is already in full swing this May, and it’s putting our courage to the test once again this year. Be sure to visit us on the weekend of May 16–17: in the spring sunshine, you can already try out the water adventures (such as rafting or the water obstacle course)! In addition to the zipline, water slides and the bobsled track, the snow slide and the huge playground offer an unforgettable experience for the little ones. Sobri Jóska Adventure Park is proof that physical activity is much more than just sports: it’s real fun, and you don’t even notice how many calories you’re burning while laughing. 

One of the most popular family destinations in the Balaton Uplands, the park located at the Nosztori rest area is an excellent spot for family sports activities in May. In addition to the treetop adventure trails, the little ones can enjoy safe, ground-level obstacles and huge slides. The park is just a short drive from Veszprém, so you can easily stop by on a spring afternoon, but it’s worth setting aside a full day for the pre-Children’s Day events on May 24. The scent of the pine forests and the clean Bakony air are just the icing on the cake, which in themselves are worth a health retreat.

Balatonfüred will host SportoljFüred festival on May 30–31, where you can try out dozens of sports for free. More than 20 sports, 2 days, 2 locations— on water and on land: family challenges and group activities await young and old alike. This weekend is the perfect opportunity to discover your new favorite summer hobby, while the scent of the lake and the atmosphere of the lakeside promenade are sure to lift your spirits.

Kékszalag PORT is a modern building that serves not only as a sailing center but also as a community space, where water sports take center stage at this time of year: from spring through fall, you can try your hand at everything from SUP to sailing tours and kayaking adventure programs.  

As the weather warms up, we find ourselves drawn more and more to the waterfront, where bike paths and marinas come alive. This is the most pleasant time to cycle along the shores of Lake Balaton: it’s already warm, but not yet hot, and the lake reveals its many faces to athletes. If you’re not looking to compete, any section of the Balaton Bike Route offers panoramic views for free, and at most beaches, you can still use the outdoor fitness equipment for free before the season starts for a little lakeside workout. 

For cycling enthusiasts, May marks the start of the peak season, which is being highlighted this year by several organized tours. Tour de Hongrie kicked off on May 13 in Gyula and will reach its final stage around Lake Balaton on May 17. In connection with the race, on Saturday, May 16, Almádi Bike Park will host bike park demonstrations, an obstacle course, a tour, and a parade of decorated bicycles will kick off the Sunday start. For the stage on May 17, amateurs can also hop on their bikes for the “Cheer and Ride!” community races. Don’t forget to check the late-May tour calendars of local cycling clubs, where you’ll find options for everything from family-friendly rides to highway whizzing.

Don’t miss the spring team challenge at Erzsébet Park in Veszprém, organized by the Hungarian Bicycle Club. If you love competition and team spirit, be sure to join us, because now you can finally rack up the kilometers together. 

The 11th Balaton Mountain Bike Tour also kicks off on May 16, during which you can explore the region’s rugged landscapes up close on an exciting MTB tour! The 62-kilometer route runs almost entirely through nature, on true mountain bike terrain. However, the tour is not a race, but a fun, community-oriented day of biking, where good company, spring energy, and the wonderful panoramic view of Lake Balaton are guaranteed.

Between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. on May 16, , join the guided e-bike tour organized by ArtValley Mansion, which starts in Kapolcs, and covers the most beautiful hiking trails in the area: whether you pedal up to Nagyvázsoly, Tapolca, or Taliándörögd, ever more beautiful landscapes await you everywhere. The e-bike helps you conquer the hills, but the sporting experience and good vibes are guaranteed anyway. Advance registration is required for the program.

Organized by Balaton Bike Tour, the tour will start on May 16 from BalatonBike365 Port in Balatonfüred, proceeding into the interior of the Tihany Peninsula: Akasztódomb Market, Belső-tó, Őrtorony Lookout and Őslevendulás, Sajkod, and Apáti Church. The tour reaches its peak on magnificent Visszhang Hill at the Abbey, then ends at the starting point in Füred.  

On May 16, nighttime bobsledding between 7:00 PM and 11:00 p.m. at BalatoniBob Leisure Park in Balatonfűzfő. BRÉDA BIA will provide the great music and atmosphere, while you can race down two illuminated tracks in the dark.  

Sport is more than just physical performance; it also helps us clear our minds while we move. The more secluded corners of the Bakony-Balaton region are perfect for “slow sport” , which focuses on presence and observation. The silence of the forests and the fresh air offer free therapy for everyone: a slow walk among the trees or a quiet meditation on the shore of Inner Lake in Tihany works wonders for mental well-being.