Lake Balaton may lack the drama of the Mediterranean, but its gentle winds and shallow waters make it one of Europe’s best places to learn to sail. The lake’s north-south thermal winds — building predictably each afternoon — create ideal conditions for beginners, while sudden summer storms keep experienced sailors on their toes.

Balatonfüred, the ‘capital of sailing,’ is the best base. The town’s marina hosts regattas throughout the summer, and several charter companies offer everything from small dinghies to 30-foot keelboats. If you’re a complete novice, book a half-day lesson at the Balatonfüred Yacht Club — they’ve been teaching since 1867.

The classic day sail runs from Balatonfüred to Tihany, a distance of just a few kilometres but visually spectacular. As you approach the peninsula, the twin-spired abbey rises above the volcanic hillside, framed by lavender fields in June. Anchor in one of the small bays and swim in the remarkably clear water.

For a longer adventure, sail west toward Badacsony, the flat-topped volcanic hill that dominates the northern shore. The journey takes half a day in moderate wind, and the reward is some of Hungary’s finest white wine, served at hillside cellars with panoramic views.

Safety note: Balaton is shallow (average depth just 3 metres) but can produce surprisingly large waves in storms. Watch for the yellow warning rockets fired from shore stations — they signal that winds above 40 km/h are expected. When the rockets go up, head for port.