6th Winter swim across Lake Balaton

Icy water, hot experiences! Winter swimming in Lake Balaton: sports, community, and unforgettable moments in Tihany.

❄️ The Winter Balaton Swim Across will return in 2026, taking the challenge to a whole new level! The event, held at the Tihany Ferry station, is not only for lovers of cold-water swimming, but also for those looking for an experience of a lifetime.

🌊 New this year: ULTRA distance – Tihany–Szántód–Tihany round trip! In addition, there are several shorter distances for participants to choose from, so everyone can find their own challenge.

📍 Location: Club Tihany Resort

📅 Planned main date: 8:00 a.m., Saturday, February 21, 2026

📅 Alternative dates: February 21–22, February 27–28, March 1, March 7–8, March 13–15, March 20–22, March 27–29

🎯 Distances:

🟣 ULTRA – 2500 m – Tihany–Szántód–Tihany

🔵 Full – 1250 m – Szántód–Tihany

🟢 Half – 625 m – starting from a designated point

🟡 Third – 417 m – starting from a designated point

🟠 Mini – 200 m / 100 m / 50 m – with on-site registration, without qualification

✅ Swimming lane with buoy row

✅ Sauna row and hot water tubs

✅ Hot food, drinks, gift package, sweater

📌 Participation: subject to qualification

✔️ At least one qualifying swim for the chosen distance is required

✔️ Gradual system: Third distance → Half distance → Full distance (prerequisites must be met)

✔️ Dates and locations:

• Dec. 14 – Ice Swimming Championships, Budapest
• Dec. 21 – Kecskemét
• Jan. 10 – Balatonakarattya
• Feb. 7 – Lupa Lake

✔️ Distances for qualification:

• Full distance: 1000 m
• Half distance: 500 m
• Third distance: 250 m

⚠️ In case of unsuccessful completion, it is possible to start at a shorter distance, if you have the qualification for it.

🩺 Medical certificate (ECG mandatory)

🌊 Required equipment: buoy, swimsuit/pants

🚫 Neoprene accessories prohibited

📃 Fill out a liability statement

🤝 Your own helper is recommended for rewarming

Source of description: Facebook event.