Lake Orta
Lake Orta (also called Cusio) is at an altitude of 290 m and has a surface area of around 18.5 square km and a maximum depth of 143 m. The area around the lake was inhabited in Roman times and then it was part of a Longobard duchy. The territory of Lake Orta belonged to the Church and to Milan, becoming part of the Kingdom of Sardinia towards the end of the 18th century.
On the Island of San Giulio, in the center of the lake there is the ancient and attractive Basilica of San Giulio, with interesting 15th century frescoes.
Orta San Giulio has a very pleasant climate, made mild by the presence of the lake. It is worth visiting the Palazzo della Comunità, of the 16th century, and the parish church, of the 15th century. At little more than a kilometer away there is the interesting Sacro Monte (Holy Hill), a wooded hill with a religious complex made up of around twenty chapels dedicated to Saint Francis, put up between the 16th and 18th centuries and decorated with frescoes and sculptures.
The Lakes of Avigliana
The Lakes of Avigliana, of glacial origin, are around 2 km from the center of the town of Avigliana. They are separated by an isthmus and are called lago Grande (or the Lake of Avigliana), and lago Piccolo (or the lake of Trana), due to their respective sizes.
In the surrounding area the splendid Natural Park has particular flora and fauna and it is also possible to go horse riding here. The main tourist and sporting activities take place on the shores of lago Grande, while the zone of the isthmus is a popular camping area.
Avigliana is perhaps of Celtic origin and the origin of its name seems to be connected to apiculture which was an important commercial activity in the Roman era.In the middle-ages the monks of the nearby Abbey of Novalesa built a hospital and guest house there to accommodate the pilgrims from France traveling to Rome. In 1045 it became part of the kingdom of Savoy and was the residence of the kingdom’s rulers until 1418. The Church of San Giovanni (12th-14th century) with its 15th century frescoes and late 16th century chiseled pulpit is well worth a visit. The Casa della Porta Ferrata ( House of the Iron clad door), with Gothic mullions and arches, the House of Savoy (15th century), the House of the Blessed Umberto III (12th century) and the Church of Saint Peter (10th-11th century), with 15th century frescoes, are also very attractive. Nearby there is the Gothic Church of Sant’ Antonio di Ranverso (12th-15th century), with paintings by Jaquerio (15th century) and Ferrari (16th century).
The Sacra di San Michele, a sort of church-fortress of great artistic interest, is a must. Perched at a dizzy height of almost 1000 m it dominates the whole valley of Susa. The monastery is an extraordinary building which occupies the whole area of the rocky peak of Mount Pirchiriano . Its construction began in the last years of the 10th century just around a small three-choir church which was consecrated to the Archangel Saint Michael, and it lasted four centuries, from the 11th to the 14th century.
It soon became one of the most famous Benedictine monuments in Europe. www.sacradisanmichele.com
Lake Viverone
Lake Viverone
Lake Viverone, situated at an altitude of 230 m, is of morainic origin. It extends over an area of about 8.5 square km and reaches a depth of 50 m. On its shores many prehistoric artifacts have been found, particularly from the bronze age.
Viverone is a town with ancient origins, with evidence of settlement as far back as the bronze age and with Roman and paleochristian remains. Today it is a pleasant tourist center.
For more information:
“DISTRETTO TURISTICO DEI LAGHI” Scrl.
Via P. Tommaso, 70/72 – 28838 STRESA
Tel. 0323 30416
Fax 0323 934335
www.distrettolaghi.it
Lake Maggiore
Lake Maggiore (or Verbano) is at a height of 193 m and covers an area of 212 square km. Its western shore is in Piedmont, its eastern shore in Lombardy and in the north it enters the Swiss canton of Ticino. The mild climate in every season favors the growth of Mediterranean and exotic plants, which fill the gardens on its shores. The western shore is undoubtedly more lively and offers a greater quantity and variety of leisure activities. The eastern shore, with various important towns, is more subdued, but equally welcoming.
Cannobio is a small town overlooking the lake, with various pleasant architectural styles. By the lake-side there is the late 16th century Santuario della Pietà, and the Palazzo della Ragione, of the 12th to the 13th centuries.
Cannero Riviera is the departure point for a pleasing excursion to the Castles of Cannero and the ancient stone village of Carmine Superiore.
Villa Taranto
Verbania is divided into two parts, called Pallanza and Intra, and is a holiday town in a magnificent medieval setting. It was one of the favorite summer haunts of the great orchestra director Arturo Toscanini. The 18th century Palazzo Dugnani and the 19th century Villa Taranto, famous for its gardens (with 7 km of pathways and more than 2000 plant species) are well worth visiting.
Baveno was host to various important figures in the 19th century, including Queen Victoria. The lake-side roadway is very picturesque. There is a parrocchiale, or parish church and a Renaissance baptistery, with interesting 15th and 16th century frescoes.
Stresa was built up in the late 18th and early 19th century and is a town full of villas and gardens. It has a very attractive lake-side promenade, lined by elegant villas, with the splendid Borromean Islands in the distance. These islands can he reached from the jetty in piazza Marconi, overlooked by the neoclassical Parish church of Sant’Ambrogio. Near Stresa there is the Villa Pallavicino, with its vast zoo-park where animals roam free, and in the town there is an important Palazzo dei Congressi, where exhibitions and events take place.
The Borromean Islands
Isola Madre
On the Isola Bella (Beautiful Island) the Palazzo Borromeo should not be missed, with its splendid decorated rooms, rich art collections and famous Italianate gardens on a series of exceptionally attractive sloping terraces. On Isola Madre (Mother Island) there is another Palazzo Borromeo (XVIII century) whose fine rooms and stupendous botanical garden full of exotic flowers and rare vegetable species may be visited. The picturesque Isola dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s island) is also very attractive.
Arona is the most important commercial center on Lake Maggiore and a well-known health resort. Important events are held here and it has interesting monuments as well as an interesting archeological and natural history museum. Walks and excursions can be made from here and it is possible to enter the so-called San Carlone, a gigantic statue of Saint Charles Borromeo, and climb to the top to enjoy the exceptional view.
Laveno
Laveno is situated in a large bay on the east coast of the lake. It is famous for the underwater illuminated Nativity scene which is prepared every Christmas. The nearby Sasso di Ferro mountain, from which there is a marvelous panoramic view, can be visited by cable-car, and the Sanctuary of Santa Caterina del Sasso, of the 13th century is worth seeing.
At Cerro, a centre of ceramic production, 3 km from Laveno, there is an interesting ceramics museum, the Civica Raccolta di Terraglia.
Luino still has, at least in its historical town center, the appearance of an ancient Lombard town. Here we can find the 15th century Church of the Madonna del Carmine and the Church of San Pietro with a Romanesque bell-tower. Near the town there is the picturesque Val Veddasca where old houses built in the typical local style can be found. At the entrance to the valley there is the attractive holiday village of Maccagno.
Angera and the nearby Ranco dominate the southern part of the Lombard shore of the lake. At the former there is the famous Rocca Borromea castle, and there are various interesting museums.
Angera – Rocca Borromea Castle
- For more information:
Piedmont “DISTRETTO TURISTICO DEI LAGHI” Scrl. – Local Tourist Board
Via P. Tommaso, 70/72 – 28838 STRESA
Tel. 0323 30416
Fax 0323 934335 - Lombardy Provincia di Varese – Tourist Board
- APT Varese – Local Tourist Board
Lakes of Varese’s Territory
Lake Varese is surrounded by undulating hills and there is a small island, the Isolino Virginia, near the western shore. The lake is fed by various underground springs. Towards the south numerous minor roads and pathways lead to an area with many marsh plants, small lakes and ponds.
Varese is a delightful city in the midst of a green area, with many gardens and splendid villas. It is full of interesting monuments and artistic and nature excursions can be made in the surrounding area to places such as the Sacro Monte (Holy Hill), the Monte Campo dei Fiori, with its observatory which is open to the public, the Lido di Varese (lakeside) and the towns of Luvinate, Voltorre, Bizzozzero, and Bisuschio. This latter possesses the XVI century Villa Cicogna Mozzoni, in the midst of a splendid park.
The Isolino Virginia has picturesque woods for romantic walks and the Prehistory Museum of Villa Ponti, with the various artifacts found in the area, is worth a look. Within a few kilometers of the lake there are picturesque sites and places of great artistic interest. Castiglione Olona has many art treasures. Castelseprio is an archeological area, and Torba (close to Gornate Olona) is an ancient Longobard setting.
On the coast, Biandronno and Cazzago alternate narrow country courts and the elegant residences of the families that decided to spend their time in these delightful places. Lakes Monate and Comabbio have remained calm basins where one may relax and enjoy the nature of the hills. The expanses of Ghirla and Ganna, instead, are set within the mountain area, protected by typically Pre-Alpine relieves.
Lake Lugano
A place-name that hints at Switzerland but that tells stories of Italian waters and shores, divided between the Varese and Como territories. If one were to examine its shape, one might say that nature has amused itself by tracing a complex chain of gulfs, loops, and ramifications. Lavena and Ponte Tresa, at the western end, from the very first Roman colonization, have always been the battle field for control over the bridge joining the two opposite shores.
On the quiet road, remote if compared to traditional crossings, one reaches Porto Ceresio and the southern tip of the lake, where the coast points north and in the direction of Swiss territory. Once again Italian shores are those of Campione d’Italia, the city famous for its international casino, and beyond, that of the deep loop of Porlezza, where the shore of Val Solda so dear to Fogazzaro opposes the wild promontory of Santa Margherita, a medieval crossing which is now completely won over by vegetation.
Valsolda, with the defended fractions of Castello and Dasio and the lakeside, and Porlezza, with its ancient village, were connected to the road about halfway through the last century, and they have maintained the features of remote villages. Nearby, the Romanesque church of San Maurizio rises on the slopes of Monte Galbiga: buried by a landslide, it was only recently given back to the faithful, who may admire its Romanesque lines.
For more information:
Lake Como
Lake Como, dear to Stendhal, is also called Lario and is divided into three branches of almost equal length (Como, Colico and Lecco). It is striking for its position in a mountain landscape and its shores are dotted with picturesque villages, luxurious villas and parks. The whole area has a gentle and temperate climate.
Como was founded by the Romans in 196 B.C. on the site of a Celtic village. A possession of the powerful duchy of Milan in the middle-ages, it was well known in Italy and abroad for the skill of its builders and above all for the production of and trade in silk. There are many artistic sites to see in the town. Among them are the Church of Sant’Abbondio of the 11th century, and the Basilica of San Fedele. The heart of the old town is the Piazza del Duomo with its Renaissance Cathedral (Duomo), one of the most beautiful churches in Lombardy. The attractive walk along Lungo Lario takes the visitor to the Tempio Voltiano, where the mementos and relics of Alessandro Volta (1745-1827), the inventor of the battery, are conserved.
Not far from Como is Cernobbio which houses the marvelous Park of Villa d’Este (16th century). Further north are the towns of Moltrasio and Laglio and from here the cavern known as the Buco dell’ Orso (the bear’s hole) is easily reached.
Near Argegno is the attractive green valley of Intelvi, and from Sala Comacina one can visit the only island on Lake Como, the Comacina Island.
Tremezzo is one of the best known holiday sites and it houses the splendid 18th century Villa Carlotta, with a museum and a magnificent and famous park sloping down to the lake. Its springtime rhododendrons and azaleas are stupendous.
From Cadenabbia or the nearby Menaggio, a health resort, one can take the ferry to Varenna a picturesque town on the eastern shore of the lake. Other places of interest on the eastern shore are Mandello del Lario, a picturesque town at the foot of the Grigne Massif, and Bellano, with the Church of SS. Nazaro e Celso and the famous “ravine” (“orrido”), formed by the Pioverna river. Also worth a visit is Colico with the Abbey of Piona, a jewel of medieval art.
The enchanting Bellagio rises up jewel-like on the end of the promontory which divides the two southern branches of Lake Como. The historical center of the town is fascinating, with its narrow alleys and their arches, ancient patrician villas and luxurious hotels.
Lezzeno is not far from Bellagio and from here the Grotto of the “Bulberi” can be visited by boat. At Nesso there is a spectacular waterfall which falls into a “ravine” (“orrido”).
Passing through Careno, with its 12th century Church of San Martino, the visitor arrives at Torno where is of great interest the Villa Pliniana with its curious intermittent waterfall which has been known since ancient times.
Lecco, in an attractive mountainous landscape setting, is at the end of the south eastern branch of Lake Como. There is a Town museum and the Villa Manzoni, where the writer Alessandro Manzoni stayed. His most famous novel “The Betrothed’ was set in this area. Between Lecco and Bellagio there is a series of mountain holiday resorts such as Vaibrona, Asso, Ghisallo and Civenna, almost overhanging the lake. In the Valsassina there are numerous health resorts and it is a location for summer holidays as well as winter sports.
Lecco
Lecco
For more information:
- APT Como
Via Cavour 17 – 22100 Como
Tel. 031 3300111
Fax 031 261152 - APT Lecco
Via Nazario Sauro 6 – 23900 Lecco
Tel. 0341 362360
Fax 0341 286231
Lake Iseo
Lake Iseo (also called Sebino) was formed at the bottom of a glacier of Val Camonica. At an altitude of 185 m. it has a surface area of 62 square km. and is characterized by an Alpine landscape. It possesses the biggest island of the Italian lakes, called Monte Isola. The mild climate of the lake shores permits the cultivation of olives, vineyards and orchards.
Iseo is one of the most popular lake-side resorts. There is the 13th century Parish church of Sant’ Andrea which has a 14th century bell-tower.
Lovere also has various medieval constructions within its historical centre, while the lake-side offers a chance to relax between the waters and the green shores. The Church of Santa Maria di Valvendra, built in the late 15th century is worth seeing, and in the Gallery of the Accademia Tadini there is a fine collection of pictures, ceramics, Flemish tapestries and archeological finds.
For more information:
- Lake Iseo APT Bergamo (Local Tourist Board)
V.le Vittorio Emanuele, 2024121 Bergamo
Tel. 011 39 035 213185
Fax 011 39 035 230184 - APT Brescia (Local Tourist Board)
Corso Zanardelli, 3425100 Brescia
Tel. 011 39 030 43418
Fax 011 39 030 3756450
Lake Endine
An excursion to the Lake of Endine and Spinone al Lago on its eastern shore is advised. Here there are the churches of San Pietro in Vincoli (11-12th century) and San Carlo, built for the Stuarts in 1618. On the other shore is the fascinating Monasterolo del Castello, a small medieval town with a magnificent 18th century parish church and, just outside the town, the eponymous castle which dates back to before the year 1000 AD.
Lake Idro
Lake Idro is one of the highest lakes in Lombardy (368 m). It is long and narrow (2 by 10 km) and is famous for trout fishing.
It is completely surrounded by mountains and its waters are of a beautiful deep blue. The lake’s shape and the surrounding mountains make it seem a Norwegian fiord.
Anfo has a parish church (15-16th century) and a striking fortified castle built at various periods in various styles, from 15th century Venetian to 18th century French.
For more information:
Lake Idro APT Brescia (Local Tourist Board)
Corso Zanardelli, 34
25100 Brescia
Tel. 011 39 030 43418
Fax 011 39 030 3756450
Lake Garda
Lake Garda (or Benaco) is the largest Italian lake and is 144 km in circumference. To the south it is broad and without surrounding mountains, whereas in the north it is like a fiord, closed in by mountains. This is “the land where the lemon trees flower” which fascinated Goethe. It is famous for its Mediterranean climate, its blue waters, its abundant vegetation, its attractive villas and gardens, the variety of the landscape, and the efficiency of the tourist services around its shores which permit a long tourist season.
Our tour begins at Sirmione, heading west and then turning north along the Brescian shore, in a succession of spectacular panoramic views on the Gardesana Occidentale road which is cut into the rock, and then descending on the eastern side from Riva del Garda to Peschiera on the Gardesana Orientale road.
Sirmione
Sirmione is the “pearl of all islands and peninsulars” according to the Roman poet Catullo. It is wrapped in a luminous atmosphere, between the blue of the waters and the green of the olive trees, with picturesque streets full of elegant shops. Make a visit to the Rocca Scaligera castle, with its collection of Roman sculptures and its curious dockyard. The archeological site, known as the Grottoes of Catullus, is on the very end of the peninsular, and consists of the remains of a grandiose Roman villa, within natural surroundings of great beauty.
Desenzano del Garda is an attractive town. Its 16th century Cathedral church has a marvelous canvas by Tiepolo. The Archeological museum and the excavation of a 4th century BC Roman villa with rich polychrome pavements are worth seeing.
Salò is an important holiday resort with two museums and a late Gothic Cathedral with splendid works of art. There are interesting excursions to be made, above all to the picturesque Valtenesi.
Gardone Riviera
Gardone Riviera is an elegant and popular health resort, famous for the poet Gabriele D’Annunzio’s monumental villa, the “Vittoriale degli Italiani “. Here there is an open-air theatre, the poet’s mausoleum and tomb, the reconstruction of the prow of the “Puglia” ship and the “Prioria”. You may like to visit the Hruska Botanical garden in the town and the Villa Alba, a continence venue, within a vast park.
Moving north through Toscolano Maderno, Bogliaco, Gargnano, Tremosine (with a detour to Pieve) we arrive at Limone, famous for the cultivation of sweet-smelling lemons (called zardi de limu). It has an ancient town centre and Venetian buildings of the 17th and 18th centuries. Famous persons such as Goethe, Ibsen and Lawrence found inspiration and relaxation here.
Riva del Garda is the northernmost town on the lake, in the province of Trento. In the town centre is the III Novembre square, surrounded by porticoes and with a view over the lake. The Castle houses an interesting Town Museum with remains of the ancient lake village on piles from Lake Ledro.
Malcesine
Moving on east towards the Venetian shore of the lake we pass through the attractive Torbole and arrive at Malcesine, a popular holiday resort dominated by the medieval Scaligero Castle which houses a Museum with natural history collections and historical curiosities. The Goethian room is particularly interesting. The 15th century Palace of the Captains of the Lake is attractive and a visit by cable car to the nearby Monte Baldo gives one the chance to admire an incredible wide panoramic view.
Brenzone is a pleasant and welcoming town on the lake-shore. The medieval village of Campo and the Romanesque churches of San Zeno and San Nicolò are worth a visit.
Torri del Benaco is in an attractive position within an olive-growing zone. The 15th century Scaligero Castle and the Church of the Trinità are worth visiting.
Garda derives its name from the Longobardic Warte, or fortress. The 18th century Parish Church is attractive and a walk in the old town centre and on the lake-side promenade is advised. The nearby Punta di San Vigilio is certainly one of the most attractive and romantic sites on the lake, with its high cypress trees. The Villa Guarienti and the ancient Chiesetta di San Vigilio are also very interesting.
Bardolino has very good tourist facilities, with the possibility to play various sports. It produces highly esteemed wines and possesses two fascinating medieval churches, San Severo and San Zeno.
Lazise – The Castle
Lazise is ringed round by ancient walls and has a well-preserved Scaligero Castle. The Parish church of Pacengo, the Church of the Madonna della Pergolana, the Dogana Veneta (Venetian Custom) and the Church of San Nicolò are all of interest.
Peschiera, is full of historical interest, hemmed in between two ancient fortifications.
If the visitor wishes to tour the waters of the lake there is a very efficient navigation service, with comfortable boats and swift hydrofoils.
For more information:
Lombardy
Sirmione, Desenzano sul Garda, Salò, Gardone Riviera, Toscolano Maderno, Gargnano, Campione and Limone sul Garda
APT Brescia (Local Tourist Board)
Corso Zanardelli, 34
25100 Brescia
Tel. 011 39 030 43418
Fax 011 39 030 3756450
Trentino
Riva del Garda
APT Garda Trentino
Giardini di Porta Orientale, 8
38066 Riva del Garda
Tel. 011 39 0464 554444
Fax 011 39 0464 520308
Veneto
Torbole, Malcesine, Torri del Benaco, Garda, Bardolino, Peschiera del Garda
APT Garda
Lungolago Regina Adelaide, 3
37016 Garda
Tel. 011 39 045 6270384
Fax 011 39 045 7256720
Lake Santa Croce
Lake Santa Croce
Lake Santa Croce
Lake Santa Croce is the largest natural lake of the Veneto, surrounded by the Alpine scenery of Alpago. It is a summer windsurfing and sailing centre and the ideal base for excursions in the surrounding mountains, above all to the famous Bosco del Cansiglio.
Lake Auronzo
Lake Auronzo
Lake Auronzo is another summer sports centre (with international canoeing and motorboat competitions). It provides an unparalled view of the Tre Cime (three peaks) of Lavaredo. On its northern shore there is the town of Auronzo di Cadore with its 18th century Church of Villapiccola.
Lakes Revine and Lago
Lakes Revine and Lago
Lake Revine and Lake Lago are two small lakes, separated by a narrow isthmus. It is possible to swim in them and make canoeing and boat trips.
Follina has the ancient Abbey of Santa Maria, founded in the 12th century by the Cistercians.
Lake Misurina
Lake Misurina
Lake Misurina is at an altitude of 1,745 m within a superb alpine landscape, dominated by the Tre Cime of Lavaredo. The lake and surrounding area are popular for holidays and are an ideal base for excursions in the woods and pathways. Not far off is Cortina d’Ampezzo, one of the most important Dolomitic tourist centres.
Lake Alleghe
Lake Alleghe
Lake Alleghe was formed by an immense landslide in 1771 which changed the course of the Cordevole river. It is now one of the main tourist areas in the province of Belluno. When the water is particularly clear it is possible to see one of the three villages which were submerged in the catastrophe. There are pleasant lake-side walks and sporting facilities.
Lake Pieve di Cadore
Lake Pieve di Cadore
Lake Pieve di Cadore was also formed by the blocking of a river, the river Piave, in this case by the hand of man. It is worth making a visit to the nearby town of Pieve di Cadore, which is in a sense the “capital” of the area. In its historical centre there is the
Lake Pieve di Cadore
Palazzo della Magnifica Comunità (l5th-l6th century) which houses the Paleoveneto Archeological Museum. Near here is the house where the painter Tiziano Vecellio (Titian c.1490-1576) was born.
For more information:
Veneto Tourist Board
Palazzo Sceriman – Cannaregio 168 – 30121 Venezia
Tel. 011 39 041 2792716
Fax 011 39 041 2792601
Lakes of Caldonazzo and Levico
The Lakes of Caldonazzo and Levico are twin lakes separated by a small hill. They have pleasant free beaches and swimming facilities. It is possible to indulge in all kinds of water sports and fish for the many kinds of fish that live in the waters.
Pergine Valsugana has pleasant Renaissance palaces and a 15th century Castle, with many interesting rooms. The Gothic Parish church is attractive. From this town excursions in the green Valsugana valley, full of hot baths and wooded areas, can be made.
Lake of Caldonazzo
Lake Tovel
Lake Tovel
Lake Tovel is a jewel fixed at an altitude of 1,178 m in one of the most unspoilt landscapes of Trentino. There are small gravelly beaches which are pleasant to walk along. Until a few years ago it was famous for the summer reddening of its waters, due to the presence of a certain algae. Pleasing excursions can be made in the surrounding woods.
Lake Lavarone
Lake Lavarone
Lake Lavarone, was a favourite resort of the Austrian Imperial Family from the 19th century and was also visited by Freud and other important figures. It is the cleanest lake in Italy. In the surrounding area there are trenches and fortifications of the First World War.
Lake Ledro
Lake Ledro
Lake Ledro to the east of Lake Garda, was created by the blocking of a moraine from the ancient glacier of Garda. Its waters are full of fish and are of a splendid green colour. They have yielded evidence of human settlement here in the Bronze Age.
Lake Ledro
Wonderful excursions in pastures and meadows can be made around here. There are sporting facilities, and there are shops which sell handicraft products.
Molina di Ledro is a peaceful town with an interesting Museum, well known in Europe for the artifacts from a lake village of the Bronze Age.
Lake Toblino
Lake Toblino
Lake Toblino is perhaps the most romantic lake in the area. Famous poets and painters found inspiration for their best works in this place. Set between immense snow-covered mountains it is 242 mt above sea-level and has a surface area of 670 thousand square mt. It is an ideal base for excursions on foot or by mountain bike.
Castel Toblino rises on a rocky outcrop which reaches into the lake and is covered with trees and plant life. This castle is famous for the tragic passion between the prince-bishop Carlo Emanuele Madruzzo and the young Claudia Particella. Today the castle is partly converted into a restaurant where one can sample the local specialties.
Lake Molveno
Lake Molveno
Lake Molveno is 4.4 km long and 1.5 km wide. Reflected in its clear green waters are the fantastic Dolomites of Brenta, which attracted many famous persons, united by their passion for the mountain. The mountaineers Francis Ford Tuckett and Edward Theodor Compton and the writer Antonio Fogazzaro stayed here, as did the king of Belgium Albert I and his son Leopold.
Lake Molveno
Andalo, Molveno and Fai della Paganella are well equipped summer resorts, also popular for winter sports. An excursion to the Paganella mountain (m 2,125), with its wonderful panoramic views, can be made.
For more information:
Trentino Tourist Board
Via Romagnosi, 11 – 38100 Trento
Tel. 011 39 0461 839000
Fax 011 39 0461 260245
Lake Trasimeno
Lake Trasimeno
Trasimeno is the biggest lake surface on the peninsula and the fourth largest Italian lake. The basin, of tectonic origin, has a surface area of 128 sq. km and a perimeter of about 54 km. The lake is almost entirely surrounded by an amphitheatre of low, verdant hills. The landscape is gentle, marked to the south and to the east by a hill system that rises to 800 meters in the north. The coasts are generally low except for two points, which correspond to the promontories of Castiglione del Lago and Monte del Lago.
The lake basin is basically circular and in the centre there are three islands: Polvese, Isola Maggiore and Isola Minore.
Lake Trasimeno is considered “Perugia’s Lake” because it is very near to the regional capital. Part of the basin verges on the Valdichiana area of Tuscany.
The municipalities of Castiglione del Lago, Magione, Panicale, Passignano sul Trasimeno, Tuoro sul Trasimeno all look out on to the lake, as do a series of smaller towns, all equipped with tourist facilities to handle the high number of visitors arriving in summer months.
For more information:
IAT del Trasimeno
(also Castiglione del Lago, Panicale, Piegaro, Tuoro, Città della Pieve)
Piazza Mazzini, 10
06061 Castiglione del Lago
tel. 075 9652484
Lake Albano
Lake Albano
Lake Albano lies 293 metres (961 feet) above sea level, is elliptical in shape and, with its smooth surface, functions as a natural amphitheatre. The lake is part of the volcanic complex of Colli Albani that constitute an extremely scenic landscape and is a quite popular weekend destination for numerous Romans. Right on the rim of the crater is Castel Gandolfo which hosts the summer residence of the Pope.
Albano and Castel Gandolfo can look back upon a long history. According to legend, Ascanius, son of Aeneas, founded there Alba Longa; it was the oldest capital of the Sabine league. In the 12th century the area of Castel Gandolfo was dominated by a castle belonging to the Roman noble family of the Gandolfi, who gave the town its name.
Lake Bolsena
Lake Bolsena
The Lake Bolsena lies within the northern part of the province of Viterbo that is called Alto Lazio (“Upper Latium”) or Tuscia. It is bordered mostly by the Roman consular road Via Cassia. In the southern part of the lake there are two islands: Bisentina and Martana.
Bisentina is the largest island, and it provides an interesting tourist excursion to admire the almost unsullied nature, made of thick forests of evergreen oaks, Italian gardens, enchanting panoramas and numerous monuments.
Located opposite the town of Marta, the island of Martana is reputed to have once guarded the relics of Saint Christine to keep them from falling into the hands of the barbarians. The island is currently private property and no visitors are permitted. The following towns are situated on the shore of Lake Bolsena: Bolsena, Montefiascone, Marta, Capodimonte, Valentano, Gradoli, Grotte di Castro and San Lorenzo Nuovo.
Lake Bolsena has numerous tourist establishments, particularly for nature tourism, largely in the areas of camping, agritourism and bed and breakfasts.
Lake Bracciano
Lake Bracciano
Lake Bracciano is one of the eight largest lakes in Italy and fills one of the parts of the old Sabatino volcano. Three towns border the lake: Bracciano, Anguillara Sabazia and Trevignano.
Bracciano is chiefly remarkable for its fine Orsini Odescalchi castle dating from the 12th century which has preserved its medieval character.
Anguillara Sabazia is a delightful grouping of old houses built high on a promontory with amazing views of the deep blue waters of Lake Bracciano.
Trevignano is a nice village located on cliffs on the Bracciano shore. The medieval village quarter is a nice area to stroll around and the Archeological museum has an interesting collection on Etruscan objects. There are plenty of little cafes and restaurants where you can have a glass of wine and eat something afterwards. The hills of Tolfa are also a popular daytrip destination. From the lake Bracciano you can explore the region, rich in Etruscan history, medieval hill towns and glorious countryside.
Lake Nemi
Lake Nemi
Lake Nemi lies on the volcanic complex of The “Colli Albani”. Less famous but more suggestive, the lake-filled Nemi crater is smaller and shallower than the Albano crater. The town of Nemi sits on the northern rim of the Nemi crater, allowing for extremely beautiful views onto the crater lake below. To the southwest is the village of Genzano. The area is renowned as one of the most suggestive nature regions in Italy and as a part of a natural park it has for the most part been preserved intact. The ancient structures around the lake are free from Mediaeval and later buildings.
Lake Vico
Lake Vico
Lake Vico is located in North Lazio at the bottom of a volcanic crater. The lake is surrounded by the Cimini Mountains, such as the vast Mount Venere. The lake surface is 12,93 km². Although it is fairly difficult to reach because of the dense vegetation, recently a tourist area was developed on the northern side where you can swim and do some fishing. Near the lake is the small village of Caprarola famous for its Farnese Palace.
The palace is shaped like a pentagon. In 1559 Alessandro II Farnese, cardinal and nephew of Pope Paul III, commissioned the great architect Vignola to transform the existing estate into a more amenable country residence for the Farnese family. The original structure had been designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Younger as a fortress.
For more information:
Lazio Tourist Board
www.turislazio.it
