The hidden treasures of Töreki nature trail
A secret gem of nature near Zamárdi
When the weather isn’t ideal for the beach, hiking along Töreki nature trail is an excellent option from spring to autumn. Whether you prefer a pleasant stroll or a full-day hike, the duration of your visit is entirely up to you.
Located between Siófok and Zamárdi, Töreki nature trail, with its network of ten lakes, diverse flora and fauna, and relaxing environment, is an ideal destination for all nature lovers. It rightfully deserves to be called one of the hidden gems of the southern shore.
The entire trail is 14 km long, but there is an option for a shorter, 8.5 km walk, and you can turn back at any point if you feel you’ve had enough. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. Along the way, there are several resting spots and viewpoints where you can pause and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings. The hike takes about 3-4 hours, depending on your walking pace and the length of your stops.
Be prepared for mosquitoes, wet forest paths, and if you wish to explore everywhere (such as the embankments separating the lakes), long trousers are recommended due to the nettles!
The first steps
The trail begins in a wooded area that offers cool shade in the summer, colourful leaves in the autumn, and sunny paths in the spring. Along the route, information boards provide detailed information about the animals and plants living here. Unfortunately, some of these have fallen, been damaged, or even disappeared.
The first stop on the trail is the Töreki marsh, dominated by reed beds. Here, the plants purify the water of the Cinege (tit bird) stream, ensuring that clean water flows into Lake Balaton.
Among fish ponds and forests
The trail continues in a straight line through the green forest, then slightly diverts along the roadside before returning to the forest. The second stop introduces an old group of grey poplar trees. This species is a natural crossbreed between the aspen and the white poplar.
Continuing our journey, hearing the noise of the M7 motorway, we pass under the motorway and soon see the first large fish pond.
In the valley of Cinege stream
The Cinege stream valley is a remnant of the pre-Balaton water network, running between loess hills formed during the early Pleistocene period following the retreat of the Pannonian Sea. Along the trail, there are benches and playgrounds for hikers.
The third stop of the trail, although not clearly marked, aims to present fishing activities. You can see swans, ducks, and various species of diving ducks on the ponds.
Birdwatching tower and playground
As we continue, we reach a rest area where the road and hiking trail intersect. From the birdwatching tower, there is a wonderful view of the lakes. With a bit of luck, you can see herons, egrets, cranes, and other water birds. The Tóközi rest area, with its playground and fire pit, is excellent for family picnics.
Loess walls and bee-eaters
Further along, we reach another stop where we can learn about the life of bee-eaters nesting in the loess walls. These birds stay in Hungary from May to September and hunt flying insects. The trail continues through the wooded area upon reaching Töreki.
The source of Cinege stream
Continuing our journey, we soon reach the source of the Cinege stream. This is the only stream in the Siófok area that carries live water into Lake Balaton, and the area is protected. From here, the remaining parts of the nature trail introduce different forest types and forest management areas.
It’s up to you
A hike into the magical world of Töreki nature trail is special in every season. The varied landscape, rich flora and fauna, and the opportunities for rest make this route worth exploring.
You decide how far you want to go: whether you explore the entire route or settle for a shorter walk, you will have a fantastic experience either way.
How to get there?
By car
The Töreki nature trail is halfway between Siófok and Zamárdi. The route is accessible from the main road 7, where you need to turn south at the Orlen petrol station between the 111 and 112 km marks. A sign also indicates “Siófok-Töreki.” Soon, on the left side of the road, you will find the parking area, while the trail gate is on the opposite side, to the right.
Public transport + walk
If you want to walk here from your apartment, I suggest taking a „slow train” that stops at every station from Zamárdi felső to Balatonszéplak alsó (just one stop), and start from there, as even this one-stop distance is more than 4 km. And you still have to return! You can find the time tables here.
How much does it cost?
Free
