Hidden Gems: Exploring Italy's Lesser-Known Lakes

Italy is a popular destination for tourists who come to enjoy its beaches, islands, ****historical cities, and delicious food.

In recent times, there has been a significant increase in the number of tourists flocking to Italy, causing some destinations to become overcrowded. Despite this, there are still hidden gems to visit that provide a peaceful escape from the crowds and offer breathtaking scenery.

Italy is home to more than just Lake Garda and Lake Como. There are many smaller, lesser-known lakes scattered across the country that offer stunning scenery without the crowds of tourists. These secret lakes are hidden gems where locals gather for day trips and picnics.

These are some of the best:

Lake Turano

Lake Turano is one of the hidden gems of Lazio, the region surrounding Rome. Many visitors to Rome, who struggle with the intense summer heat of the city, are unaware of this magical place located nearby. It offers stunning views, rich history, delicious food, and a refreshing breath of fresh air.

Initially created as a water source for nearby power plants by Italy's former dictator Benito Mussolini in the 1930s, Lake Turano was not intended to be a vacation destination. However, it has since transformed into a popular weekend getaway for those seeking a peaceful escape to the great outdoors.

Lago del Turano is perfectly situated, not too far from the capital city but away from all the hustle and bustle.

Located in the beautiful countryside north of Rome and encircled by hills, this spot was once inhabited by the Fallisci, an ancient tribe, until they were defeated by the ancient Romans.

Visitors driving along a road through a deep forest are greeted by free-roaming cows and sheep. As they emerge from the woods, they are captivated by the stunning scenery of the lake and often feel compelled to pull over at a belvedere. Here, they can sit on benches and soak in the breathtaking view.

The lake is home to a plethora of giant carp, attracting anglers from all corners of Italy for fishing competitions.

Two charming towns with stone houses and scenic balconies, Castel di Tora and Colle di Tora, offer stunning views of Lake Turano from their clifftop locations. Additionally, there is a historic monastery situated on a tall peninsula that extends into the lake.

The crystal-clear waters of Lake Turano are surrounded by pebble shores with beach amenities available for renting dinghies, canoes, and boats. Visitors can also relax and soak up the sun on the shores, enjoying the tropical-like waters.

Only one metal bridge spans over the water, linking Castel di Tora to the main road. During the winter season, many holiday homes are closed and the narrow alleys are quiet, with only a few cats roaming around. However, in the springtime, locals brighten up their outdoor patios and gather in the charming little piazza.

For a delightful dining experience, head to restaurant L’Angoletto, a quaint stone cottage with a picturesque open veranda overlooking the lake. If you're looking for a cozy place to stay, Hotel Turano offers simple yet comfortable rooms right by the lake, along with a restaurant that serves delicious local dishes.

2R5RYBW Portugal, Alentejo region, Monsaraz, Alqueva Lake

2R5RYBW Portugal, Alentejo region, Monsaraz, Alqueva Lake

Hemis/Alamy Stock Photo

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Lake Scanno

Lake Scanno is known for its unusual phenomena.

Lake Scanno is known for its unusual phenomena.

Davide Pischettola/NurPhoto/Getty Images

The most intriguing of all lakes however is Lake Scanno, the “pearl” of eastern Italy’s Abruzzo region, which is as beautiful as it is mysterious.

Over the years, people have shared stories and legends about this deep green, heart-shaped lake. These tales continue to intrigue scientists and paranormal investigators who are curious about the strange events that have puzzled the locals for years.

Located in the Apennines mountain range, this natural lake is believed to possess mystical abilities. It is known by the name of the village that overlooks it, adding to its mysterious allure.

The locals have a strong belief that the lake is alive. Some have even shared strange occurrences they have witnessed, like light bulbs shattering, TV screens exploding, and ceiling lamps swaying as if an earthquake had just passed through.

In addition to these unusual incidents, there are stories circulating about unexpected events at the lake. People talk about sudden drops in water levels, divers' compasses going haywire, and even sightings of dead fish and long-lost World War II weapons floating on the surface. Rumor has it that there is an unidentified object buried deep in the lake bed.

The unique vibe of Lake Scanno is truly captivating. During the vibrant summer months, a sense of mystery lingers in the balmy air.

Even though the water appears green due to harmless algae, visitors are welcome to swim and enjoy activities like windsurfing. The lake is perfect for adventure seekers, with a scenic trail known as the “Path of the Heart” encircling its shores. Along the way, you can discover a church rumored to be a place of miracles and an ancient hermitage.

A beach along the shores is equipped for summer swimming, with options for mountain bike trails and rentals of rickshaws, rowing boats, and canoes. Visitors can also enjoy a children's playground and a parking area for campers.

Lakefront Agriturismo Miralago, a farm and B&B, offers the opportunity to see horses roaming freely. Guests can indulge in traditional dishes such as tagliatelle with wild boar. Don't miss the village of Scanno, with its mix of grand bourgeois mansions and humble shepherd dwellings adorned with colorful flower pots.

Lake Iseo

Located just a few miles from Milan, this picturesque spot formed from pure Alpine glacial meltwater is also a source of great sparkling wines, made from grapes grown on its banks.

The lake is home to three islands, two of which are privately owned. The largest island, Montisola, is a majestic mountain rising from the deep blue waters, attracting nature enthusiasts.

Visitors to the area can rent canoes or fishing boats for a personalized tour of the lake. Along the shores, there are charming brightly colored homes on stilts originally built for fishermen. Among these is the renowned restaurant Locanda al Lago, famous for its delicious fish dishes and the sight of sardines drying on the dock. The lakefront Hotel Sensole is a stunning Baroque palace that houses a gourmet bistrot for guests to enjoy.

Lake Nemi

Lake Nemi, near Rome, sits in an extinct volcanic crater.

Lake Nemi, near Rome, sits in an extinct volcanic crater.

e55evu/iStockphoto/Getty Images

Just beyond the southwestern suburbs of Rome lies a small lake where locals gather for Sunday lunches featuring traditional porchetta pork sandwiches and rich red wines.

This lake holds historical significance as well. During the days of the Roman empire, senators and wealthy families would retreat to lavish villas around Nemi's shores. Today, visitors can still enjoy succulent strawberries amidst archaeological ruins and lush forests, following in the footsteps of their ancient predecessors.

Located among the Colli Albani hills on the outskirts of Rome, Lake Nemi is a volcanic lake situated in an extinct crater. You can reach it by walking along a historic path that descends from a village on the hills above, which also bears the same name as the lake.

Lakefront B&B Lago di Nemi is a charmingly renovated farmhouse by the lake that offers bicycle rentals. On the shore, you'll find the restaurant La Fiocina, known for serving delicious fish dishes such as fried whitebait with green peppers.

Agnese Gambini

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Lake Orta

Orta is one of the secret gems of Italy’s Piedmont region, usually overlooked by visitors who flock to the more touristy Lago Maggiore nearby.

A serene paradise awaits visitors at Lake Orta, which was formed by a melting Alpine glacier. The charming lake is dotted with picturesque villages, chapels, and medieval towers. In the center of the lake, the monastery-island of San Giulio emerges majestically from the water.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as biking, horseback riding, waterskiing, and even scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the pebble beaches of Lake Orta. For a luxurious experience, L’Approdo offers a four-star lakefront hotel restaurant with a panoramic terrace and pool.

Lake Trasimeno

Lake Trasimeno is located in a less-touristed part of Umbria region.

Lake Trasimeno is located in a less-touristed part of Umbria region.

Christiana Stawski/Moment RF/Getty Images

This beautiful lake in Umbria was created thousands of years ago by the Earth's shifting tectonic plates. It is situated in a quieter area of Umbria, where only locals own vacation homes and the shops in the charming village of Castiglione offer unique souvenirs.

The shores of Lake Trasimeno are adorned with ancient medieval villages and picturesque wooden bridges that span across the water, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying a relaxing drink while watching the sunset.

Beaches in the area offer windsurf and kite equipment rentals.

B&B Dolce Dormire offers comfortable rooms in the historic district of Castiglione, while La Casa di Campagna is a countryside farm and restaurant that specializes in local dishes.

Editor's P/S:

Italy's hidden lake gems offer a tranquil respite from the bustling tourist destinations. These lesser-known lakes, such as Lake Turano, Lake Scanno, and Lake Orta, boast stunning scenery, rich history, and unique experiences. From the mysterious phenomena surrounding Lake Scanno to the volcanic origins of Lake Nemi, these secret spots provide a glimpse into Italy's diverse natural and cultural heritage.

Venturing beyond the popular tourist trails allows travelers to discover the authentic charm of Italy. By exploring these hidden lakes, visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, enjoy outdoor activities, and create lasting memories in some of Italy's most captivating natural settings.