The northern shore of Lake Balaton holds countless natural gems, so even those who prefer hiking instead of going to the beach won’t be bored this summer. Photography enthusiasts can also indulge in both of their passions in the joint photo competition of Theodora mineral water and Magical Hungary, which is open to enthusiastic photographers on September 4.

“Our heart is to promote the Balaton highlands, as it is not only one of the most beautiful natural treasures of our country, but also the home of the Theodora spring. We hope that through the photo competition, many people will discover the natural diversity of the landscape, the rich wildlife, and get excited about trips to the Balaton.”

– said Nikolett van der Wildt, marketing manager of Szentkirályi Hungary, which distributes Theodora mineral water.

The mineral water has now collected five outstanding attractions in the Balaton highlands, where it is worth equipping yourself with a camera and capturing the fauna and flora, as well as the unique natural formations.

Pointy evening

One of the most spectacular places in the Balaton highlands is Hegyestű, rising with special ridged ridges, which, according to legends, has a healing effect on those who visit it. The volcanic peaks of the basalt mountains offer a dazzling panoramic view, where visitors can admire the characteristic karst bush forests and cherry-stemless oak forests of the region.

Saint James spring

In the fairy-tale village of Vászoly, bisected by streams, a romantic stone bridge leads to Lake Forrás, which is fed by the springs of the area, and to the Szent Jakab spring, named after the village’s patron saint. The crystal clear water surrounded by shady trees is home to a rich wildlife, hikers can also meet various fish, terrapins, mallard ducks and dark blue lady dragonflies, which are particularly sensitive to the purity of the waters.

Saint George’s Hill

The exciting stone formations of Szent György-hegy, the 35-40 meter high basalt columns line up next to each other like an organ pipe. Also referred to as the king of witness mountains, this natural attraction offers photography lovers a unique photo theme. Due to the unique microclimate of the mountain, in the area you can also find special plants such as the chell fern species, which lives only here in Hungary due to the favorable climate.

Kővágóörs, Theodora nature trail

Starting from the Kékkút mineral water bottling plant – where the iconic Theodora well is also located – the fifteen-stop hiking trail offers a dazzling experience close to nature for both young and old. During the eight-kilometer walk, hikers can admire the extinct crater of the Káli basin, the Kereki hill, the Kopasz mountain, and the Szentbékkálla stone sea. Active experience is guaranteed for hikers on the nature trail, and the photos taken here are truly unmatched.

At the tender of Theodora ásványvíz and Varázslatos Magyarország, a high-level professional jury evaluates the photos showing the natural diversity of the Balaton highlands. The three photographers who take the best photos will receive a large cash prize and a gift package. Applications are accepted until midnight on September 4, 2022. https://varazslatosmagyarorszag.hu/user/login page.

More information about the application is available on the official website of Magical Hungary: https://vm-magazin.hu/sokszinu-balaton-felvidek/