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Lake Garancsi

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Lake

Weather…

Lake Garancsi is situated between the villages of Tinnye and Piliscsaba and is a designated local nature reserve in Pest County. The lake is a shallow, marshy body of water primarily fed by rainwater and groundwater, resulting in seasonal fluctuations of its surface area. It has been under environmental protection since 1993 to safeguard the habitat of rare amphibians and bird species nesting in its reeds. The site gained national fame in Hungarian popular culture as the primary filming location for the hit comedy movie Uvegtigris, which significantly boosted local tourism. The surrounding landscape consists of rolling hills, providing accessible trails for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Despite its modest size, the lake plays a crucial role in the ecological health and biodiversity of the Pilis region.

Location: Hungary
Top sights: 2000 éves kelta, kesobb római falu romjai · Ördögoltár-szikla · Fokozottan védett természeti terület
Nearby: Dorog (15 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-2	0	5	11	16	21	23	22	17	11	5	0
Rain mm	39	40	41	35	65	70	66	63	57	51	44	43

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

This pretty little lake is easily reached by car or bicycle from the surrounding villages in the Zsámbék Basin, via well-maintained local roads. The straightforward approach makes it a favorite destination for spontaneous weekend trips and relaxed family outings away from major highways.

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Best season

The area is appealing year-round, but late spring and early autumn provide the most comfortable weather for picnicking and leisurely walks. Summer afternoons can be quite warm, but the surrounding trees offer pleasant shade, while winter invites peaceful, frosty strolls around the perimeter.

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Terrain & paths

The terrain is highly accommodating, featuring a relatively flat and well-defined walking path that circles the tranquil water. The paths are generally grassy or compacted dirt, making them easily navigable for children, elderly visitors, and casual strollers without any significant physical effort.

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What to bring

No specialized equipment is required; everyday comfortable clothing and basic walking shoes are perfectly sufficient for exploring the shores. Bringing a camera to capture the idyllic scenery, along with a picnic basket and a blanket, will maximize the enjoyment of this peaceful spot.

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Parking

Visitors can typically find convenient, free parking spaces situated just a short walk from the water's edge, near the main access paths. The parking areas are usually unpaved but easily accessible, though they can fill up quickly during popular holiday weekends in the spring and summer.

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Safety

This is a very serene and safe environment, with the only real considerations being typical outdoor elements like sun exposure or occasional mosquitoes. Staying on the designated paths helps protect the local flora and ensures a safe, relaxing experience for visitors of all ages.

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Time needed

A visit here is usually a brief, relaxing affair, typically lasting between one and two hours to complete a leisurely circuit and enjoy the views. Many choose to extend their stay by bringing food and spending a lazy afternoon simply sitting by the water and absorbing the quiet atmosphere.

Geography

Coordinates

47.61000, 18.85000

Facts

The lake is located on the administrative border of Tinnye.
The area was officially protected in 1993.
It served as the iconic filming location for the movie Uvegtigris.
The lake is shallow and lacks a permanent natural outlet.
It provides a habitat for several protected amphibian species.
An educational nature trail runs along the shoreline.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Piliscsaba3 km · NWExplore →

Nagykovácsi4 km · SEExplore →

Pilisvörösvár5 km · EExplore →

Solymár6 km · EExplore →

Pilis Peak9 km · NExplore →

📍Pilisszentkereszt10 km · NExplore →

Páty10 km · SExplore →

Dobogoko12 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Lake Garancsi (9)

2000 éves kelta, kesobb római falu romjai

Ruins of a Celtic, later Roman village.

Ördögoltár-szikla

Rock formation resembling an altar.

Fokozottan védett természeti terület

Strictly protected nature reserve.

Gomba-szikla

Mushroom-shaped dolomite rock.

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Gomba-szikla kilátó

Viewpoint at Gomba-szikla.

Kálvária kápolna

Calvary chapel in Piliscsaba.

Kutya-hegy

Hill in Hungary.

Nagyszénási-sziklaüreg

Cave in Hungary.

Nagy-Szénás

Mountain peak in the Buda Hills.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is it also called the 'Glass Tiger' lake?

It was the filming location for the cult Hungarian comedy movie 'Üvegtigris'.

Is swimming allowed in the lake?

No, swimming and fishing are prohibited as it is a nature reserve.

Is there a buffet there?

Yes, the original trailer from the movie still operates as a buffet today.

Where can one park?

There is a spacious free parking lot right next to road 1105.

Is the place suitable for a picnic?

Yes, there are benches and designated fire pits along the lakeshore.

Lake Garancsi: where is it located?

Lake Garancsi is located in Hungary.

Lake Garancsi: what is there to see?

Highlights include 2000 éves kelta, kesobb római falu romjai, Ördögoltár-szikla, Fokozottan védett természeti terület.

Lake Garancsi: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Lake Garancsi: why is it worth visiting?

Lake Garancsi is situated between the villages of Tinnye and Piliscsaba and is a designated local nature reserve in Pest County.

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