Hévíz–Balaton Airport

Overview

Heviz-Balaton Airport (also known as Sarmellek Airport) is a small international airport located in western Hungary, near the shores of Lake Balaton. It primarily serves as a seasonal gateway for leisure travellers heading to the Lake Balaton region, Hungary’s most popular holiday destination, and the nearby thermal spa town of Heviz. The airport handles mostly charter flights from German-speaking countries, such as Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, as well as some low-cost carriers operating on a seasonal basis. It also accommodates general aviation traffic, including private aircraft and flight training activities. Unlike Hungary’s main hub, Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, Heviz-Balaton offers a much more relaxed and manageable travel experience, with a single terminal building and short walking distances. The airport is particularly busy during the summer months, when Lake Balaton attracts sunbathers, sailors, and families, while the thermal lake in Heviz draws spa enthusiasts year-round.

Location & Access

Heviz-Balaton Airport is situated in the village of Sarmellek, approximately 10 kilometres (6 miles) southeast of Heviz and 15 kilometres (9 miles) west of Keszthely, the oldest town on Lake Balaton. The airport lies just off the main road E71/M7 motorway, which connects Budapest to the Croatian border, making it easily accessible by car. From the airport, the drive to the southern shore of Lake Balaton takes less than 20 minutes, while the northern shore can be reached in about 40 minutes via the scenic roads around the lake. For those arriving by public transport, there are local bus services connecting the airport to Heviz and Keszthely, though services may be limited and vary seasonally. Taxis and private transfer services are readily available at the terminal. The nearest railway station is in Keszthely, from which regular trains run to Budapest and other Hungarian cities. The airport’s small size means that parking is close to the terminal, and there are designated spaces for wheelchair users.

Facilities

The airport offers a range of essential amenities to ensure a comfortable journey for passengers, including those with reduced mobility. The terminal is fully wheelchair-accessible, with an accessible car park, entrance, and toilets. A designated changing table is available in the restroom facilities, which is helpful for families travelling with infants. Baggage storage is provided for passengers who wish to explore the area before their flight or after arrival. While the airport does not have extensive shopping or dining options, there is a small cafe or snack bar (seasonal operation) and a basic duty-free shop for last-minute souvenirs. Free Wi-Fi is typically available, and information desks can assist with flight inquiries and local transport advice. As the airport operates on a seasonal schedule, some services may not be available outside of peak times; travellers should check ahead if they require specific amenities.

About the Region

The Lake Balaton region is one of Hungary’s most iconic landscapes. Lake Balaton itself is the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe, stretching about 77 kilometres in length and up to 14 kilometres at its widest point. The area is renowned for its mild climate, making it ideal for swimming, sailing, windsurfing, and cycling along the extensive Balaton Bike Path. The northern shore is known for its volcanic hills, vineyards, and historic towns such as Tihany, with its abbey and lavender fields, while the southern shore has shallow, sandy beaches perfect for families. Just a short distance from the airport lies the town of Heviz, home to the world’s second-largest thermal lake (after New Zealand’s Frying Pan Lake). The Heviz Thermal Lake has a unique ecosystem and is rich in minerals, attracting visitors seeking therapeutic treatments for joint and musculoskeletal conditions. The region is also part of the Balaton Wine Region, producing both red and white wines. Other nearby attractions include the Festetics Palace in Keszthely, the Badacsony wine region, and the ancient Roman ruins at Fenékpuszta.

Practical Information

• Opening Hours: Heviz-Balaton Airport does not operate year-round. It typically opens during the summer season (April to October) and for specific charter flights outside these months. The terminal building is open only when flights are scheduled. Travellers should confirm exact hours with their airline or check the airport’s website closer to their travel date.
• Address: Heviz-Balaton Airport, Sármellék, 8391 Hungary
• Phone: +36 83 200 304
• Website: http://www.hevizairport.com/
• Parking: Free and paid parking options are available, with a short walk to the terminal. Disabled parking is provided adjacent to the entrance.
• Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF). Currency exchange may be limited; it is advisable to have cash on hand, as some local services may not accept credit cards.
• Language: Hungarian and English are commonly spoken at the airport, with German also understood by many staff due to the high number of German-speaking visitors.

For real-time flight information or specific service availability, contact the airport directly or visit the website.