Lake Hámori

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Lake Hámori, one of the most beautiful jewels of Lillafüred, is accessible via a mountain road carved into the side of Szeleta Hill. The lake’s water surface merges with the surrounding green forests, making it difficult to distinguish between the shore and the forest line. Originally created for industrial purposes, the lake was formed in 1812 when the Fazola family built a dam to supply water for the iron forges. Over time, the artificial lake became a tourist attraction and, by the early 20th century, a hub for water sports. It offered opportunities for ice skating in winter and boating and sailing in summer, and even had a short-lived beach in 1930. A unique feature of the lake is that, in addition to the Garadna stream, it is fed by several springs and underground watercourses. Several structures around the lake have had varied histories. The boathouse, built by the Hungarian Defense Association in 1969, now resembles a ghost house, but there are hopes for future restoration. A long-held dream of visitors is to make the lake fully walkable by extending the lakeside path—a plan that may be realized in the future. With its unique hydrology and scenic appeal, Lake Hámori is one of Hungary’s most beautiful high mountain tarns, attracting visitors and remaining one of the main tourist attractions in Lillafüred.