Balaton Supermarathon 2026 – Run Around Hungary’s Lake of Legends

The Balaton Supermarathon (Balaton Szupermaraton) is one of Hungary’s most iconic running events. Each year, runners gather in early spring to take on the challenge of circling Lake Balaton, Central Europe’s largest lake, across four demanding days. It’s not just a test of endurance—it’s a celebration of the landscape, the running community, and the beauty of Hungary.

What is the Balaton Supermarathon?

The race covers approximately 196 kilometers, divided into four consecutive stages. Participants can run solo and cover the entire distance, or join as part of a relay team, splitting the workload across friends, clubs, or even towns. For those who want a taste of the event without committing to the full distance, there are also single-day challenges and half-lake options.

The atmosphere is unique: hundreds of runners from Hungary and abroad gather to challenge themselves, cheer one another on, and enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Balaton’s shores, villages, and vineyards.

The Stages

Each day brings a new stretch of road and a different face of the lake:

• Day 1: Siófok → Fonyód (~48 km)
• Day 2: Fonyód → Szigliget (~53 km)
• Day 3: Badacsony → Balatonfüred (~43 km)
• Day 4: Balatonfüred → Siófok (~51 km)

Together, these stages form a complete loop around Lake Balaton, beginning and ending in Siófok, one of Hungary’s favorite holiday towns.

Who is it For?

The Balaton Supermarathon is perfect for ultrarunners seeking a tough but rewarding challenge. Yet, it’s not only for seasoned athletes. With its relay categories and single-day options, it offers something for ambitious amateurs and those who simply want to experience a once-in-a-lifetime race around Hungary’s “inland sea.”

The weather in March can be unpredictable, with sunshine, wind, or rain all possible in a single day. That’s part of what makes the event special—it tests both mental and physical strength.

Balaton Supermarathon 2026 – Dates

In 2026, the event will take place from March 5 to March 8 (Thursday to Sunday). Four days, four stages, one unforgettable experience.

Learn More

For more information about the event and practical details, check out this article:
Balaton Supermarathon 2026

Will you take on Lake Balaton in 2026?