Not everyone knows that a holiday on the lakes of Italy is considered much more prestigious than a holiday on the coast, this type rest more privileged. Italian lakes: Como, Lago Maggiore, Garda - places with stunning nature and a lot of attractions. Let's start with the largest lake in Italy, covering an area of three hundred and seventy square kilometers - Lake Garda. Since time immemorial, this place has attracted not only travelers, but also people of art, inspiring them to create brilliant creations. Since ancient times, rich Roman aristocrats built their villas here, some of which still stand today, like the villa of the poet Gaius Valerius Catullus, located in Sirmione. If you consider yourself a connoisseur of ancient ruins, then be sure to check out this building. Its Antiquarium displays things that archaeologists find during excavations. Sirmione is also famous for its castle of the dynasty of the famous Veronese Scaliger family, although the building is somewhat gloomy, but it is perfectly preserved; by the way, with its medieval walls it resembles our Moscow Kremlin, especially with its dovetail-shaped battlements. Not only history buffs will enjoy a holiday on Lake Garda; it is a popular destination for families and families with children. Children and teenagers will certainly enjoy the Garlaland entertainment complex, located in the city of Castelnuovo del Garda, it is simply huge, there is a large water park, aquariums with exotic species of fish, made with imitation coral reef. The north of Lake Garda is famous for its lemon gardens; there is even a small town named after this citrus fruit - Limone. According to legend, Saint Francis began growing lemons here. Residents are so adept at preparing a variety of dishes with lemons that you will be surprised at their variety: there are cakes, sauces, and limoncello - the famous Italian liqueur that tourists buy at the airport in duty-free as a souvenir of the trip.
One of the lakes in Italy is very reminiscent of the majestic landscapes of the famous Norwegian fjords - Como. The lake is considered the deepest in Europe, and it also has a very unusual shape acquired as a result of glacier movement. Many newlyweds prefer to spend their honeymoon on the shores of Lake Como - the most romantic lake in Italy. After all, here you can easily find wonderful places for a romantic retreat, and with no less ease arrange a magnificent celebration. This trend did not escape famous people For example, Franz Liszt brought his young wife Marie Catherine here for their honeymoon; during the Renaissance, Grand Duke D'Este had his wedding here. A notable place in the Lake Como area is the village of Magrello, located at an altitude of eight hundred meters above sea level, it is located not far from Bellagio, and cycling fans from all over the world come here. Special attention deserves the local church, which was built in honor of Madonna del Ghisallo, the recognized patroness of cyclists. Here, right under the holy arches, there are bicycles different types, commemorative pennants and jerseys of famous bicycle racers are hung. The undoubted attraction of Lake Como are the wonderful villas preserved from Roman times. The most famous villa is D.Este, which is also one of the most expensive hotels in the world. Guides show vacationers the Villa Serbelloni, built in the 16th century, and tell the story associated with this building. The ancient Roman writer Pliny the Elder decided to rebuild two villas, calling them “Comedy” and “Tragedy”, both of them have sunk into the centuries, but a rich aristocrat of the sixteenth century, having heard about them, decided to rebuild the villa “Tragedy” again, although it had a new name . It turned out to be very majestic and beautiful, and all these centuries it has attracted celebrities and even royalty, who did not hesitate to relax here for several days, Leonardo before Vinci visited here, who loved to stroll through its luxurious gardens, and Queen Victoria was also here. Villa Serbelloni is a place of pilgrimage for composers, writers, film actors, singers of our time seeking peace and solitude. Before you get yours own houses in this area, Madonna, George Clooney, Sylvester Stallone constantly relax here in specially designated apartments. Another interesting fact, about Lake Como - Star Wars was filmed here. Episode 2", "Casino Royale", "Ocean's 12" You can take a ferry cruise around Como, and, seeing the stunning views around, you will understand why these places are so attractive to film directors.
Lago Maggiore is the most beautiful lake in Italy, translated as "". Not only big, but also stunningly beautiful. Its coastal hills are buried in rhododendrons, palms and cypresses, and the air is filled with the aromas of blooming camellias and azaleas. Start your holiday on Lake Maggiore by visiting the botanical gardens. The most famous garden on the island of Madre. It was built back in the 17th century and is famous for its extensive collection of rare plants and exotic birds. Not far from the city of Stresa, at an altitude of eight hundred meters above sea level, the Alpinia Park is located, be sure to visit it, you will find a lot of interesting things there, take wonderful photographs. If you feel good about climbing to high altitudes, you can take the funicular to the top of Mount Mattarone, 1,491 meters high. Here you will see not only the lake, but also the stunningly majestic slopes of the Alps. At the opposite end of the lake, there is the park of Villa Taranto in Pallanza, where almost twenty thousand species of plants grow - a whole botanical encyclopedia! If you come in the summer months, you will see more than three hundred varieties of dahlias blooming alone.
Pallanza is the site of the villa of the Russian sculptor Paolo Trubetskoy. In the seventeenth century, the entire area around Lake Maggiore belonged to the family of the Borromeo Dukes, so most of the attractions are in one way or another connected with this family. For example, nearby in Arona, there is a thirty-five meter statue of Cardinal Charles Borromeo, erected in 1624, and considered one of the tallest statues in the world. The town of Stresa, on the shores of Lago Maggiore, opens great views to the Borromean Islands. These islands have well-preserved palaces where members of the Borromeo family still live, but visitors are readily allowed inside. In these luxurious palazzos on Bella Island they hosted a visit from Britain's Prince Charles and Princess Diana during their honeymoon. So it’s worth exploring this place; there are wonderful baroque interiors, beautiful Flemish trellises, mysterious underground grottoes decorated with volcanic tuff, shells and pebbles. In addition to all the listed attractions, there is also good beach holiday, the high tourist season begins in May and ends in October. Here on thermal resorts, you will be offered a variety of wellness treatments. There are thermal springs on Lake Garda, healing properties who have long glorified this area. There are many balneological complexes here, for example, in the cities of Sirmione, Bardolino, Gardone. Here you will experience exquisite gastronomic pleasures, and you will also be able to engage in sports: boating, surfing, water skiing, hiking and cycling in the mountains, rock climbing, golf, tennis. You won’t be bored; the lakes of Italy will offer you a prestigious, fashionable holiday.
Beautiful lakes, striking with the picturesque surrounding landscapes and the crystal purity of quiet waters, sometimes resemble surreal paintings of famous contemporary artists with a bewitching, magical atmosphere. The portal "Italy in Russian" has compiled a rating of "15 most beautiful lakes in Italy", visiting which you will feel like the heroes of a fairy tale.
Lakes and ponds have always fascinated people. Perhaps the magical effect of these reservoirs on the human consciousness is explained by the state of peace and tranquility that they inspire in the attentive observer, or perhaps this is the “work of the hands” of magnificent picturesque views and nature, as if from a postcard, invariably surrounding the lakes and reflected in their mirror still waters
Italy holds in its depths many precious pearls, many of which are simply little known to travelers.
We have selected 15 Italian lakes that everyone should see at least once in their life: here nature has unlimited power over the world and, once you see these landscapes, you will never forget them! Bon Voyage!
Lago di Garda
Lake Garda is enclosed, like a pearl in a shell, between the regions of Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige. The vegetation surrounding Lake Garda is striking in its richness: olive trees, agaves and grape vines crystal clear waters are “embraced” with their green branches and leaves, and in the background all this splendor is “guarded” by snow-capped inaccessible mountain peaks. The climate here is always very mild, so you can enjoy the beauty of these lands at any time of the year. To get to know all three regions facing the lake, we recommend making your route through the town of Riva del Garda, located on the shores of Trentino, Limone sul Garda in Lombardy and Malcesine in Veneto. Well, where would we be without Sirmione and Tremosine! But in general, travel wherever you want - you will not be disappointed in any case.
Lago di Braies
At the foot of the majestic Croda del Becco mountain range, immersed in the Pasteur Valley, Lake Braies is a true piece of paradise. The Alpine lake, surrounded by incredible nature with vibrant colors, with a carpet of flowers at the very waters changing color from blue to emerald green, is surrounded by an impressive dolomite wall that guards the lake's peace. It is so beautiful here that you feel like you are in an art gallery and looking at an artist’s canvas.
Lago di Como
The third largest lake in Italy and one of the deepest in Europe, Lake Como is dotted with historic villas now owned by international celebrities and beautiful dream villages reflected in the blue of its waters. Majestic and beautiful, this lake combines a foothill climate and Mediterranean charm and is one of those places that knows how to pamper tourists not only with its breathtaking scenery, but also with the thousands of services it offers.
Lago di Scanno
This is one of the most romantic lakes in Italy, because when you look at it from above, Lake Scanno has the shape of a heart, framed by the green dense vegetation of the Sagittarius Valley (Valle del Sagittario), wild and proud, located in the very center of Abruzzo. By the lake you can relax and enjoy a walk admiring the tranquility of its waters, or enjoy a catamaran ride around the lake. Take time to look into historical center borgo, located off the coast of Scanno, which is included in the ranking of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
Lago Maggiore
The islands of Borromeo, Arona, Stresa and Pallanza, everywhere the splendor of nature and a unique atmosphere, the border between Switzerland and Italy: we are on Lake Maggiore, the second largest lake in Italy and the largest (hence its name) of the pre-alpine lakes. This is a place that suits and pleases absolutely everyone: the lake is ideal for relaxing with family or friends; Don't worry, even if you are a lone wolf by nature, because here you won't have time to get bored - you can rent a canoe or catamaran, explore the lake by boat, walk along its shores or take a bike ride.
Lago Trasimeno
We are going to Umbria to see Lake Trasimeno, with its ancient borgos on the shore and three islands, which can be reached by ferry. One of them, Isola Maggiore, is inhabited. Another way to discover Lake Trasimeno is to stroll among the lake's castles, enchanted towers and fortresses set on calm waters that will take you to another dimension. And if you go there at sunset...
Lago di Lesina
Between the territory of Tavoliere delle Puglie and Cape Gargano there is another magnificent lake, connected to the sea through several tributaries. Its waters rich in fish (especially eel) make Lake Lezina especially visited and revered by fishing enthusiasts, and its long comfortable beaches welcome swimmers in search of relaxation and relaxation. sun rays. Make time for a trip to Cagnano, a town whose white houses highlight the blue waters of the lake!
Lago di Fusine
Close your eyes and imagine that you are standing in front of the magnificent Lake Fusine, enclosed in the embrace of an emerald valley surrounded by high peaks... In fact, there are two lakes Fusine: Upper Lake and Lower Lake, of glacial origin, born in an environment of limestone rocks and amazing nature beauty, of course. In winter, the surface of the lake freezes solidly and the landscape changes its face, acquiring even more incredible charm. You should see this lake in every season!
Lago di Bolsena
We set off to enjoy the beauty of the largest volcanic lake in Europe, located in the province of Viterbo. Lake Bolsena is ideal place For active rest: Kayaking, diving, paragliding, horseback riding are just some of the activities you can enjoy by the luxurious lake.
Lago d'Iseo
We are going to Lombardy to another famous body of water in Italy: between the provinces of Bergamo and Brescia is Lake Iseo, with its historical villas near calm waters. It is here that the largest natural lake island in Italy is located - Monte Isola. Be sure to explore its streets because it's worth it, and then get lost among the villages born a long time ago by the lake and try delicious dishes local cuisine. If you love birds, you should definitely visit the Torbiere del Sebino peatland nature reserve, and if you love typical Italian borgos, Lovere will amaze you.
Lago di Caldonazzo
In the area of Valsugana, in Trentino, there is another beautiful Italian lake, Caldonazzo, whose mirror city reflects the blue of the sky during the day and its starry night, and during the famous festival is painted in the colors of fireworks. Here you can ride a water skiing, sunbathe on the free beaches and plunge into the clear blue waters of Caldonazzo.
Lago di Carezza
Famous for its clear waters, receiving various shades, depending on the hit on them sunlight, this beautiful alpine lake lies a few kilometers from Bolzano. Lake Carezza is a true tiny corner of paradise, set against the backdrop of the Dolomites in the middle of untouched nature.
Lago di Resia
We are staying in South Tyrol to go to the opening of another " enchanted place"where time truly stands still: Lake Resia, with its submerged bell tower that rises from the waters, is a place where history and legends intersect. In winter, when the lake freezes, the Curon bell tower, belonging to a fourteenth-century church, is just a few minutes' walk from the shore .
Lago di Posta Fibreno
Lake Posta Fibreno, located in the middle of the Liri Valley, in the center of the reserve of the same name, which is one of the most important reserves in central Italy, amazes with its purity and silence of the surrounding nature. Its pristine waters and surrounding vegetation are home to rare and protected bird species. Here, like nowhere else, you will feel in harmony with nature!
Lago di Fedaia
At the foot of Mount Marmolada, near the Passo Fedaya, there is a lake that will give you a lot of intense and unforgettable emotions, alone with nature or in the company of those you love. Among the picturesque landscapes of the Dolomites, you will enjoy breathtaking scenery and feel like a small part of a huge and exciting Universe!
Photo by ThinkstockIn Italy there is not only a worldwide famous cities, outstanding architecture and incredibly delicious food, but also beautiful, romantic lakes.
Many tourists, especially those coming to Italy for the first time, limit their stay in the country to visiting Rome, Florence and Venice. A trip to the shores of the Italian lake district is a chance to see a completely different Italy.
There are many lakes in the northern part of the country. Some of them are different large sizes and greater attraction for tourists, especially in the summer months. Others cannot boast of a large area, but are distinguished by the beauty of their landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere. Still haven't decided which lake to go to? Perhaps the TOP 5 best Italian lakes will help you decide on your destination.
In 1818, the famous poet Lord Shelley wrote about Lake Como: “it exceeds anything I have ever beheld in beauty.” And here’s what Henry James wrote about it a few decades later: “it is impossible to describe the beauty of the Italian Lakes, nor would you try if you could.”
Lake Como and the lands around it have attracted the rich and famous for 2,000 years, and in medieval times the area was a center for trade in silk and stones. The main lakes of northern Italy - Como, Maggiore, Orta, Iseo and Garda - still inspire and impress with their beauty as they did centuries ago.
George Clooney was impressed by the beauty of these places, decided to settle here and now owns an 8 million villa in Laglio on the shores of Lake Como. However, you don't need a movie star bank account to buy property here. A two-bedroom apartment overlooking Lake Como costs from 125,000 €. These places are so beautiful that films such as " Star Wars. Episode II. Attack of the Clones" and "Casino Royale".
Lake Como is the deepest lake in Europe and the third largest lake in Italy. One of the most beautiful places on the lakes, for real estate purchase - Bellagio, also known as the pearl of the lake. Many will say that this is the prettiest city in Europe.
Other beautiful villages located on the Beguera: Colico, Tremezzo, Mandello del Lario and Varen. For truly spectacular views, take the seven-minute funicular ride to Brunato, up a 2,400ft hill above Lake Como. The view of all seven lakes, as well as the Alps and Switzerland, is striking in its beauty.
Lake Maggiore is also stunning in its beauty; its western shore is more popular among tourists. On this side of the lake there are picturesque cities and villages, with villas and gardens, but the heart of Lake Maggiore is undoubtedly Stresa, located opposite the Borromean Gulf. Ernest Hemingway, Charles Dickens and Lord Byron are just some of the famous poets and writers who sang the beauty of these places.
Among the most popular excursions from Stresa are regular ferry services to the three Borromean islands - Isola Madre, Isola Bella, Isola Pescatore, the smallest of the three, which is home to only 50 people.
Sirmione, Desenzano, Riva del Garda, Malcesine, like most lakes Northern Italy The towns and villages on the shores of Lake Garda have attracted people for thousands of years. The main attraction here is the castle, preserved from Roman times.
Lake Orta is for those who prefer privacy and peace to a large crowd. Its main resort is Orta San Giulio on the eastern shore, a town so picturesque that it is a favorite for photo shoots, weddings and property purchases on the Italian lakes.
This lake is “sandwiched” between the famous Lake Garda and Lake Como. In the middle of this sits San Giulio Isola, largest island all European lakes. Lake Iseo is also popular with investors buying Italian lake properties for future deals. A small apartment with a terrace and/or garden overlooking the lake costs from 120,000 €.
When people say “lakes in Italy,” they primarily mean Garda, Lago Maggiore and Como. Experienced travelers and geography experts will also name Varese, Lugano, Iseo, Trasimeno, Omodeo. But in Italy there are over one and a half thousand fresh water bodies. Of these, the lion's share are small ones. They were formed as a result of the damming of the river bed by an ancient glacier. But there are also lakes of a different origin in Italy. For example, lagoons. They were formed by cutting off a certain area from the sea with scythes. An example of a lagoon lake in Italy is the beautiful Lesina. Reservoirs also form in the calderas of extinct volcanoes. The most famous lake of this origin is Albano. It is located twenty kilometers from Rome, at the foot of Monte Cavo.
In this article we will talk about the main lakes in Italy. These freshwater bodies of water are an alternative to seaside resorts and are well suited for those people who cannot stand the heat.
Photos of these shining blue reservoirs adorn all guidebooks around the country. Like a necklace of precious sapphires, they are spread out on the southern slopes of the Alps. The massive mountain system reliably shields Garda, Como and Lago Maggiore from the northern winds, creating a unique Mediterranean climate. Lemons and oranges ripen here, the region is famous for winemaking and olive oil. In addition to this, travelers will find medieval castles and Baroque palaces, Romanesque churches and incomparable Italian flavor. The Great Lakes include the country's largest lakes, Garda, Como, Maggiore, Lugano and Iseo. But there are smaller bodies of water that are no less picturesque.
The largest lake in Italy is located near Verona. Crystal pure water, crazy beautiful landscapes, the unique climate attracts many travelers from all over the world. Holidays on the island are considered even more prestigious than at seaside resorts. The banks of this reservoir are covered with ancient towns. The most famous of them is Sirmione. He was famous back in ancient times thanks to thermal springs. The town is located on a peninsula jutting far into the water.
The tourist attractions of Sirmione are the ancient villa "Grotto of Catullus", medieval church Santa Maria Maggiore and San Pietro in Mavino. On the northern shore of the lake is Riva del Garda with excellent beaches. It is worth taking a short trip on a tourist boat, stopping at different resorts - Limone, Torbole, Bardolino, Desenzano, Malcesine and others. And Castelnuovo del Garda needs to be devoted to a whole day. After all, here is the Gardaland amusement park with an aquarium.
“The standard of prestigious recreation” - such is the glory of this lake in Italy. During the era of the Roman Empire, the poet Virgil had their villas here, and today George Clooney and other celebrities. Italy's third largest Lake Como is easier to get to from Milan - just forty kilometers straight north. The reservoir got its name from the town. But besides settlement Como, the shores of the lake are dotted with other resorts: Lecco, Varenna, Cernobbio, Menaggio, Laglio and others. The climate here is even and mild. The air temperature during the tourist season (May-October) is from +22 to +28 degrees. Como is considered the deepest lake not only in Italy, but throughout Western Europe(up to 410 meters).
But this is not what attracts tourists, but the luxurious villas that form a single whole with an equally marvelous landscape. Como has repeatedly become the setting for films. But relaxation here is for hedonists and lovers of a relaxing pastime, unlike Garda, which “specializes” in windsurfing. The following can be distinguished from Como’s “must si”: interesting places: Villas Melzi and Serbelloni in Bellagio, Basilica of St. Eufemia and fort on the island of Comacino, Castello di Vezio in Varenna, Pion Abbey of the seventh century.
The name of the second largest body of water translates simply as “ Big lake" It is shared between Italy and Switzerland. Maggiore also marks the border between the regions of Piedmont and Lombardy. There are many resorts on the shores of the lake. In Switzerland these are Locarno and Ascona. Best views open from the western (Piedmontese) shore of the lake in Italy. The resorts of Verbania, Cannobio, Intra, Stresa are located there. In Lombardy, the famous places are Sesto Calende, Besozzo, and Angera. The most popular tourist attraction is the Borromean archipelago, especially the island of Isola Bella. Almost its entire territory is occupied by the luxurious palace of the cardinal, now a museum. During the tourist season, boats depart to the archipelago from Intra, Pallanza, Laveno and Stresa. But there are other islands on Lago Maggiore: rocky Castelli di Cannero and Izulin with an excellent beach. Mount Holy Trinity, overlooking Ghiffa, is included in the UNESCO List due to the Baroque chapel located here.
The dimensions of this lake in Italy are small: three and a half kilometers by two. The palace of the Pope, Castel Gandolfo, makes the reservoir famous. Lacus Albanus enjoyed fame back in ancient times. In 395 BC, the Romans dug a tunnel to regulate the water level of the lake. And in the fifteenth century, Pope Pius II glorified him in his Commentaries.
Lake Albano is of volcanic origin. It is located in two calderas. The easiest way to get there is from Rome. It is only twenty-five kilometers away. Mountain biking connoisseurs love to relax on Lago Albano, as it has very beautiful shores. Kayaking and team rowing competitions are held on the ancient canal near Castel Gandolfo.
This body of water is considered the pearl of the Alto Adige region. This alpine lake lies at an altitude of almost one and a half thousand meters above sea level. The water surface is surrounded on all sides by rocky dolomite cliffs. The lake was formed as a result of damming by a landslide. This natural landmark rests at the foot of the Croda del Becco mountain. The lake attracts tourists with its turquoise surface and unparalleled alpine nature. Despite its elevated location, you can swim there in summer. The lake is surrounded by a walking trail, there is a pier and tourist boats operate. Reviews recommend getting to Braies, a lake in Italy, from Bolzano, which is located in the province of South Tyrol. The reservoir is separated from this city by one hundred kilometers.
