Gébárti Lake
Zala
Gébárti Lake is an artificial, horseshoe-shaped lake located in the northern part of Zalaegerszeg, Hungary, near the Zala River. Created by damming two streams, the lake was completed and opened to the public on August 20, 1979. The lake features shallow, bushy ends with depths ranging from 0.5 to 3 meters, while the central part near the dam reaches depths of 8 to 10 meters. Its park-like surroundings provide a peaceful setting for swimmers, water sports enthusiasts, and anglers. Along the lake, walking paths invite visitors to explore the natural environment, while a peninsula hosts an outdoor beach area with playgrounds and sports facilities such as football, tennis, and beach volleyball courts. A notable cultural attraction is the House of Craftsmen on the southwestern shore, a building inspired by folk architecture that serves as a creative center for artisans and artists practicing traditional crafts like weaving, pottery, and blacksmithing. The nearby year-round camping site offers log cabin apartments and spaces for caravans and tents, making Gébárti Lake a versatile destination for leisure and cultural experiences.
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Tip: The best time to visit Gébárti Lake is during the warmer months from May to mid-September when the outdoor beach and sports facilities are open. Visitors interested in crafts can join workshops at the House of Craftsmen without prior reservation, but larger groups should consider booking in advance. Anglers can enjoy fishing year-round, with a variety of fish species available. Discounted rates may be offered for families, groups, and seniors at the beach and camping facilities. The lake is accessible by car via the 76 and 74 roads through nearby towns, and ample parking is available.
Interesting facts
- •The House of Craftsmen was built between 1982 and 1983 through community volunteer work involving folk artists and architects.
- •The lake reaches depths up to 10 meters near the dam, while its ends are shallower and densely vegetated, ideal for fishing.
- •Gébárti Lake supports a diverse fish population including carp, pike, catfish, and perch, making it a favored spot for anglers.
- •The outdoor beach area covers 4.5 hectares and features multiple sports facilities such as football, tennis, and beach volleyball courts.
History
Gébárti Lake was created in the late 1970s by damming two streams north of Zalaegerszeg.
Construction began in 1976 with strong community involvement, culminating in its official opening on August 20, 1979, during the socialist era's Constitution Day celebrations.
Over the years, the area developed into a recreational hub with the addition of the House of Craftsmen in the early 1980s, built between 1982 and 1983 by folk artists and architects to preserve traditional crafts.
The lake has since become a popular site for water sports, fishing, and cultural activities, with continuous improvements to its facilities and camping site.
Place Guide
House of Craftsmen1982-1983
A building inspired by Hungarian folk architecture, serving as a creative workshop space for artisans and artists. Visitors can learn traditional crafts such as weaving, pottery, and blacksmithing through guided demonstrations and workshops.
Gébárti Outdoor Beach
A 4.5-hectare outdoor beach area located on the peninsula of the lake, offering swimming, playgrounds for children, and sports facilities including football, tennis, and beach volleyball courts.
Camping Site
A year-round camping area near the lake featuring log cabin apartments, caravan plots, and tent sites set in a picturesque environment, catering to modern camping needs.
Contact
Phone: 06 20 466 7807