Group 3 of Nagybajom was recently able to spend a truly special and experience-filled Saturday in the stunning region of Kis-Balaton. Following an early departure, members of the team arrived excitedly and in high spirits during the morning hours at the Kis-Balaton Visitor Center. Scarcely had we arrived when a qualified and kind tour guide took charge of our group. After a brief orientation, we immediately set off along the special hiking trail leading directly to the highly protected Diás Island. As we entered this closed, mysterious area, we were instantly struck by the magical scent of untouched nature. During the walk, our guide shared versatile and detailed information regarding the unique bird life of Kis-Balaton. We learned how many rare bird species this marshy region provides a safe nesting and feeding ground for. Through the guided tour, the fascinating past of the landscape as well as its current nature conservation status were revealed to us.
One of the most exciting stops of the tour was clearly the memorial site of Diás Island’s most famous former resident, István Fekete. The writer’s former refuge—a hut evoking the atmosphere of Tüskevár—left a deep impression on us all. We were able to learn plenty of interesting and hitherto unheard background information about the author’s days spent here and his creative work. We also became acquainted with the mysterious and resourceful lifestyle of the former pákász marsh-dwellers, who sustained themselves from the natural conditions of the marshland. Children and adults alike listened in awe to the colorful accounts of traditional, clever fishing customs. The tour guide faithfully demonstrated how these people lived in perfect harmony with the aquatic world and the environment.
Upon returning to the Kis-Balaton Visitor Center, we took our seats in a comfortable screening room with the members of our group. Here, we watched a roughly half-hour, highly spectacular, and professionally crafted nature film. The moving image presented the full annual cycle of Kis-Balaton and its wilderness in a breathtaking manner. It was wonderful to see the spring awakening, the summer bustle, the autumn migration, and the tranquility of the frozen winter landscape. After the visual experiences and the extensive walking tour, we had all built up quite an appetite, so a little rest felt well deserved. At the visitor center, we enjoyed a truly magnificent and hearty lunch together amidst pleasant conversations.
After lunch, with renewed energy, we boarded the bus to continue with the next exciting stop on our daily itinerary. As our next destination, we explored the justly famous and popular Kányavári Island, located not far from there. We walked across the wonderful, distinctively shaped wooden arched bridge, which has become an iconic symbol of the island over the years. Looking down from the wooden bridge, the calming sight of slowly flowing water and lush aquatic vegetation opened up before us. A well-constructed educational trail awaited us on the island, and as our team set off along it, an exploration trip began immediately. While exploring the area, we closely visited and climbed two massive wooden lookout towers. From the top of the lookout towers, a breathtaking panorama opened up over the endless seas of reeds and the glistening water surface.
In addition to the birds, it was worth watching our step, as smaller inhabitants of the wetland habitats also ventured out. During the walk, we managed to catch a glimpse of and photograph a beautiful grass snake slithering through the grass. We had a great walk along the winding paths running alongside the island’s shady trees and reed beds. Sitting on the shore, we saw peaceful, patient anglers in several spots, waiting quietly for a bite. The presence of the anglers further enhanced the tranquility of the place and the atmosphere of a genuine waterfront idyll.
Leaving Kányavári Island behind, we finally began our journey back to Nagybajom in the late afternoon. On the bus ride home, everyone enthusiastically recounted their favorite moments and showed off their well-captured photos. This Saturday was the perfect occasion to get closer to one of Hungary’s most beautiful natural treasures. We are certain that the wonderful memories made at Kis-Balaton will stay with us for a very long time.
