Since the height of the Roman Empire, Laghi, or lakes in Italian, have been a popular destination for travelers. They are still. There is a valid explanation for this. These lakes, many of which may be found in northern Italian alpine regions, are the stuff of picture postcards. They are undeniably beautiful and enchant visitors, so return. These are the top 10 Italian lakes.
1. Lake Bolsena
It seems like you can see forever from the hills that surround Lake Bolsena where you are standing. Maybe not, but you will get a beautiful view of this lake in central Italy. There are various islands on this sizable lake, the largest of which is Bisentia, which has charming churches and Etruscan antiquities.
The lake is located in a volcano crater, and therefore, if you stroll the beaches, you will find black volcanic sand. A great area to fish, swim, or observe birds like egrets and gray herons is Lake Bolsena. If you’re traveling between Rome and Tuscany, the lake is a nice place to halt.
2. Lake Ledro
Although Lake Ledro isn’t the largest lake in Italy, it more than makes up for its smaller size with breathtaking scenery. This forest-covered alpine lake in the Trentino region has clear waters, making it one of the cleanest in the region. In the summer, swimming and sailing are both possible in the warm sea.
The lake’s edges will probably be difficult for mountain bikes to navigate. The lake is well renowned for its archaeological discoveries, which include homes from the Bronze Age, which surfaced when the water level was dropped to construct a hydroelectric dam.
3. Lake Lugano
Due to its location in the middle of Italy and Switzerland, Lake Lugano is particularly lovely. The lake attracts tourists like honey attracts bears because the Alps descend to the shore. The glacier lake has multiple arms that extend outward, which adds to its appeal.
No matter what angle you view Lake Lugano from, it is incredibly beautiful. For more expansive views, you can ride a boat on the lake or ascend a mountain by funicular. You can go fishing at Lake Lugano or search for fossils on Monte San Giorgio.
4. Lake Trasimeno
There are some similarities between the Great Salt Lake in Utah and Lake Trasimeno in central Italy. Both allowed water in but not out. This lake in Umbria is dirty and shallow (approximately 5 meters or 16 ft deep). The various fortifications around the lake are a testament to its strategic location and violent past, as Hannibal destroyed the Roman army here in 217 BC.
In September, a fish festival draws visitors who come to watch fish being fried in a huge frying pan that can cook two tons of fish per hour. Lake Trasimeno is surrounded by farmland, including vineyards and olive trees, giving it a picturesque rural ambiance.
5. Lake Bracciano
Water sports lovers are drawn to Lake Bracciano. It’s an excellent location for swimming, snorkeling, diving, fishing, canoeing, and windsurfing. Although they are permitted, sailboats are limited to four passengers. A park that provides a variety of outdoor activities encircles Lake Bracciano.
The lake is an excellent day trip from Rome due to its close proximity to the Italian city. The lake was created by volcanic activity, and Rome’s drinking water is stored in the lake’s waters. If you grow weary of being outside, stroll through the quaint village of Bracciano and its historic castle.
6. Lake Iseo
Medieval villages in Northern Italy are frequently visited; a trip to Lake Iseo might offer much-needed relaxation. Lake Iseo, an Italian lake that is surrounded by vineyards and forests, is regarded as a hidden gem. For starters, it is much quieter because it is not located on a well-traveled tourist route, although it is equally as beautiful as its larger sisters, lakes Como and Garda.
A boat journey will take you to the charming Monte Isola, the largest populated island in a lake in southern Europe. There are no automobiles permitted here, but you can ride a mule to the chapel.
7. Lake Orta
Journalists have referred to Lake Orta as beguiling and a hidden treasure among the lakes in northern Italy, from Balzac and Browning to more contemporary writers. The Isla San Guilio serves as an exclamation point to the otherwise gorgeous environment. (San Guilio is the area’s patron saint.)
The cobblestone streets on the island are ideal for slow and romantic strolls. Visit the vibrant market or the basilica from the 12th century. If tranquillity is what you’re after, finish your search at Lake Orta, an oasis of peace tucked away in the mountains and forests about an hour’s drive from bustling Milan.
8. Lake Maggiore
Another lake that is shared by two nations—Italy and Switzerland—is called Lake Maggiore because it runs along their shared border. The southern slope of the Alps is home to Maggiore, which means “great lake” in Italian. Its Mediterranean environment enables the cultivation of exotic species.
When the hills are covered in blooms, the lake is very lovely. The Mottarone cable car ride into the mountains is a fantastic site to see this 64 km (40 mi) long lake and its islands. Additionally, you can cycle around the lake or take a leisurely sail on it.
9. Lake Garda
The largest lake in Italy is Lake Garda, which was formed by glacial activity. This lovely lake is a well-liked holiday spot because of the mountains that surround it. St. Francis of Assisi established a monastery on Isola del Garda, one of the lake’s islands, in 1220.
A ferry makes it enjoyable to travel between the lakeside villages; the lake itself has a fjord-like character. Its coasts are bordered by olive gardens, orange and lemon groves, and other beautiful trees. Bikers, boaters, windsurfers, and people who prefer to wander the charming island settlements all enjoy the lake.
10. Lake Como
Lake Como is the destination to visit if seeing famous people is your hobby. Since the Romans constructed the first homes on the lake, Lake Como has drawn a lot of tourists. Many famous people own vacation houses on the lake; who knows, you might spot George Clooney out with his twins.
Nevertheless, if the lake intrigues you more, you should be aware that it is among Europe’s deepest lakes, measuring 400 meters (1,300 feet). Visitors come here to soak in the scenery, explore Villa Carlotta, or partake in the gelato tasting in Como. The villages along the lake are connected by ferry service.
