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The Őrség region has long been no longer a secret. It is one of the most authentic and lovable regions of Hungary, where traditions and nature live and breathe together. Yet there are spots that have preserved their untouchedness in such a way that more and more people are discovering them – one such is Lake Hársas, near Szentgotthárd, on the edge of the Austrian border. The lake captivates not only with its view, but also with what it radiates: tranquility, freedom, closeness to nature.
Hársas Lake was artificially created in 1980, once intended as a reservoir, but has now grown into one of the most important recreational and ecotourism destinations in the area. Surrounded by dense forests, hills and slopes, a green landscape awaits visitors from all directions. The mirror-smooth surface of the water reflects the image of the linden trees standing on the shore, birds nest on the shore, fish swim in the water, and the air is fresh, clean, and has a resinous scent.
The 16-hectare water surface of Hársas Lake is perfect for getting away from the noise of the world for a few hours or even a whole day. Whether you lie down on a blanket in the grass by the shore or curl up in the shade of the trees with a good book, the proximity of the lake slows everyone down. Time truly passes differently here.
One of the special features of the lake is that it is also suitable for swimming thanks to its designated free beach. The water deepens slowly, making it safe for children, yet it is large enough to provide a challenge for swimmers. There are no noisy water slides or queues for the lángos buffet – just nature, water and you.
A 2-kilometer-long nature trail runs around the lake, which not only offers a pleasant walk, but also provides an insight into the wildlife of the area with the help of informative boards. Benches and lookout points under the trees provide a great opportunity for nature lovers to quietly observe the inhabitants of the lake and the forest: herons, egrets, and even beavers.
The life hidden in the reeds and marshes next to the lake opens up an exciting world, especially for those who like to take photos or simply observe.
Lake Hársas is not only a bathing place or picnic spot, but also an important stop for active tourism in the region. The hills of Őrség are excellent for cycling tours, and the lake is an ideal stop during a longer tour. It is located just over 4 kilometers from Szentgotthárd, so it can be easily reached on foot on a summer afternoon.
The area is full of small and large tourist trails that connect Lake Hársas with the Rába River valley, the Szentgotthárd spa, or even the neighboring Austrian settlements. The proximity of the border also gives the excursions an exciting international dimension: we can wander through the landscapes of two countries in a single day. Lake Hársas is not a place that you quickly tick off. It is not loud, not intrusive, and it does not try to entertain at all costs. Instead, it offers something different – something that fewer and fewer places know these days: balance. Peace. Silence. Simplicity.
written by: Márton Király
