Horse Riding
Horse Riding at Lake Balaton – Scenic Trails & Equestrian Experiences
Discover a different side of Lake Balaton on horseback, where rolling hills, vineyards and peaceful countryside offer a beautiful setting for outdoor adventures. Whether you're trying horse riding for the first time, planning a family activity or looking for a guided ride through the landscape, riding centres around the region offer experiences for different ages and skill levels. Explore the equestrian side of Lake Balaton and find a riding experience that suits your stay.
Horse Riding for Beginners & Families
You don't need previous riding experience to enjoy time with horses around Lake Balaton. Several riding centres offer introductory lessons for adults, while younger visitors can discover horse riding through supervised pony rides or beginner-friendly sessions. The right activity depends on the rider's age, confidence and experience.
Szentesi Lovasfarm – Balatonalmádi – Set in the hills above the northern shore, this riding centre welcomes both children and adults. Younger children can get to know horses through supervised introductory experiences, while school-age children and adult beginners can learn basic riding skills at a gradual pace.
Rádpuszta Equestrian Centre – Balatonlelle – On the southern side of Lake Balaton, Rádpuszta offers riding experiences for different skill levels. Beginners can receive instruction from a qualified trainer, and younger children can enjoy supervised pony rides.
Gyula Vezér Lovasbirodalma – Gyulakeszi – Located in the Tapolca Basin, surrounded by the volcanic hills of the Balaton Uplands, this riding centre offers lessons for beginners and more experienced riders. Activities include guided horse-leading experiences for very young children and introductory lessons for first-time riders.
Contact the riding centre before visiting to arrange a suitable session and confirm age requirements, availability and equipment. For a first lesson, wear comfortable trousers and sturdy, closed-toe footwear, and follow the instructor's guidance on helmets and safety.
Horseback Riding Tours & Countryside Experiences
For riders with some experience, exploring the countryside on horseback is a memorable way to discover the landscapes beyond Lake Balaton's beaches. The region's volcanic hills, open fields and rural paths offer a different perspective on the Balaton Uplands and the southern shore.
Gyula Vezér Lovasbirodalma – Gyulakeszi – At the foot of Csobánc Hill in the Tapolca Basin, this riding centre offers opportunities for outdoor riding in one of the Balaton Uplands' most distinctive landscapes. Intermediate and experienced riders can enquire about trail riding, with views of the surrounding volcanic hills. Longer rides should be arranged in advance according to the rider's abilities and the centre's availability.
Rádpuszta Equestrian Centre – Balatonlelle – Located in the countryside south of Lake Balaton, Rádpuszta offers cross-country riding and horseback excursions alongside its riding lessons. It is an option for visitors who want to experience the quieter rural landscape beyond the lakeside resorts.
Outdoor riding is not always suitable for complete beginners. Before booking, ask about the required riding experience, route length, group size and whether a guide accompanies the ride. Availability and routes may vary with weather and ground conditions.
Carriage Rides & Traditional Equestrian Experiences
You don't have to be a rider to enjoy Lake Balaton's equestrian traditions. Horse-drawn carriage rides, encounters with traditional Hungarian farm animals and equestrian performances offer a different way to experience the region's rural heritage. These activities can be especially appealing to families and visitors looking for a relaxed outing.
Salföld Manor – Salföld – Set in the Káli Basin, this visitor attraction operated by the Balaton Uplands National Park introduces traditional Hungarian farm animals and rural life. Horse-drawn carriage rides and pony rides are among its attractions, making it an enjoyable stop for families exploring the Balaton Uplands.
Rádpuszta Equestrian Centre – Balatonlelle – South of Lake Balaton, Rádpuszta offers horse-drawn carriage rides and traditional Hungarian equestrian shows. The performances feature skilled horsemen, riding demonstrations and elements of Hungary's historic horse-herding culture. Visitors can also enquire about carriage rides through the surrounding countryside.
Opening periods, carriage rides and equestrian performances may follow different schedules. Check availability and booking requirements directly with each venue before visiting.
