Little Balaton, Protected wetland in Zala County, Hungary
Little Balaton is a wetland in the southwest comprising reed beds, water surfaces, and open shoreline areas stretching alongside the larger lake. The terrain includes various habitats, with islands and marshy zones creating a complex ecological landscape.
The area was originally part of Lake Balaton itself, but underwent radical change in the 19th century due to agricultural drainage projects. Those interventions reduced water coverage substantially and created the marshy landscape visible today.
The reed beds and open waters shape how people experience and connect with the natural world here. This place has become central to how local communities understand their relationship with wetland ecosystems and wildlife conservation.
Some areas are easy to visit, such as Kányavári Island and the reserve in Kápolnapuszta, while other sections require guided tours. Visitors should bring comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear, as paths can wind through marshy terrain and grasslands.
The visitor center features a living grass roof and displays modern exhibitions about the ecosystem. The facility also offers electric vehicle and boat rentals for exploring the area in an environmentally responsible way.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
