Deseda Lake
Somogy
Deseda Lake, located north of Kaposvár in Somogy County, Hungary, is the country's longest artificial lake, stretching approximately 8 kilometers. Created in 1974 by damming the Deseda stream and the Varga-bonyi ditch, it was initially built as a flood control reservoir. Today, it serves as a popular recreational area for locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of activities such as fishing, boating with an electric excursion boat, swimming during summer, and ice skating in winter. The lake's surroundings feature forests and meadows, making it a favored spot for hiking and water sports enthusiasts. Its shores vary from lively beach areas near Toponár, attracting young visitors and sports lovers, to tranquil stretches near Kaposfüred, Magyaregres, and Somogyaszaló, preferred by those seeking peace and quiet. The lake has a rich fish population including native Hungarian species like carp, catfish, pike, and others, making it a renowned fishing destination. Additionally, the area includes an arboretum accessible by a bridge, a visitor center named after the writer István Fekete, and adventure forest trails with canopy walks. Scenic viewpoints and a newly constructed bike path encircle the lake, enhancing its appeal for outdoor activities. Several large "DESEDA" signs and memorial sculptures add cultural interest to the site.
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Tip: The best time to visit Deseda Lake is during the warmer months for swimming, boating, and hiking, while winter offers opportunities for ice skating when the lake freezes. Visitors are advised to purchase fishing permits in advance from the Kaposvári Sporthorgász Egyesület if they plan to fish. The bike path around the lake is mostly asphalted, ideal for cycling enthusiasts. The adventure forest and canopy walk are free to visit, but the Fekete István Visitor Center has separate opening hours. Parking is available near key access points, but local bus connections are limited, so private transport or cycling is recommended.
Interesting facts
- •Deseda Lake is Hungary's longest artificial lake, stretching about 8 kilometers.
- •In 2017, it hosted the 19th World Carp Fishing Championship with 208 participants from 26 countries, the first such event in Hungary.
- •The largest recorded catfish caught in the lake weighed 99 kg, and the biggest carp was 22.8 kg.
- •The lake features a variety of native Hungarian fish species, including carp, pike, catfish, and others.
- •A large 'DESEDA' wooden sign was installed near the lake as a photo spot for visitors and was rebuilt in 2018 after road construction.
- •The Republic band's 'Hazatalálok' memorial sculpture has stood near the old 67 road bridge since 1997.
History
Deseda Lake was created in 1974 by damming the Deseda stream and the Varga-bonyi ditch to serve as a flood control reservoir.
Its name likely originates from a medieval village near SomogyaszalĂł, known as Dershida or DĂ©shida, named after a landowner who collected tolls at a bridge.
Over the decades, the lake evolved from a functional reservoir to a recreational hub, with developments including the establishment of an arboretum in 1978, the opening of the Fekete István Visitor Center in 2014, and continuous enhancements of recreational facilities such as hiking trails and water sports infrastructure.
Place Guide
Arboretum1978
Located on the largest peninsula north of the old 67 road, the arboretum was established in 1978 and has been accessible via a bridge since 2001. It showcases diverse tree species and offers a peaceful natural environment for visitors.
Fekete István Visitor Center2014
Opened in 2014 on the Toponár shore, this center is dedicated to the famous Hungarian writer István Fekete and provides educational exhibits about the lake's natural environment and cultural heritage.
Adventure Forest and Canopy Walk2015
Established in 2015 and expanded by 2017, the adventure forest near the northern part of the lake features educational trails, playgrounds, and a canopy walk, all freely accessible to visitors.
Electric Excursion Boat
Operates during favorable weather, offering scenic tours on the lake's waters, enhancing visitor experience with a relaxing way to explore the area.
Wakeboard Park2018
Opened in 2018 near the southern end of the lake, this facility provides wakeboarding opportunities for water sports enthusiasts.
