Lakes, rivers and waterfalls are an excellent alternative to the sea, especially if you want to plan a quick summer weekend away to cool off from the heat, escape the chaos of the city and steer clear of crowded beaches.
Let's discover some of the lakes, rivers and waterfalls where you can swim in Italy!
Lake Bracciano in Lazio
North of Rome, in the Regional Park of Bracciano-Martinano, there is a beautiful lake of volcanic origin that welcomes tourists in search of a refreshing swim: Lake Bracciano.
Lake Bracciano is gigantic. With a surface area of 56 km2, it is the third largest lake in Italy. So, which beaches are best for swimming? Read on and we’ll tell you!
In Anguillara families will love Vigna di Valle beach: fine sand, calm and shallow water, plus plenty of beach resorts and refreshment stands.
The beach of Lungolago Argenti located right in Bracciano is perhaps the best known beach of all. Here you can sign up for windsurfing lessons at the well-known windsurfing center. Finally, if you are travelling with your four-legged friend, Gabbiani beach is the spot for you.
➡ For a stop and a dip in Lake Bracciano, we recommend staying at one of our farmhouses in Bracciano!
Alimini Lakes in Apulia
The beach at Alimini Lakes in Apulia has received five Blue Flags from Legambiente for the highest standards of cleanliness, and features 6 km of fine sand and crystal clear water.
Once the two lakes were united, but today they are separated: Alimini Grande is fed by sea water, while Alimini Piccolo is a freshwater lake. The two stretches of water are parallel to the sea with dunes stretching in between.
To get there, just cross the pine forest located along the road from Torre Sant'Andrea to Otranto.
The waters of the Alimini Lakes are turquoise, clean and especially suitable for children as they are very shallow. Keep in mind, however, that many stretches of shoreline can only be reached on foot or via a special shuttle.
The entire territory surrounding the Alimini Lakes is a natural habitat that hosts many species of fauna and flora typical of Salento, so much so that it was recently declared a specially protected area: try to plan a pleasant exploratory walk!
➡ For a stop and a dip in the Alimini lakes we recommend staying at one of our farmhouses in Otranto!
Lake Caldaro in Trentino Alto Adige
Do you know which lake is the largest bathing lake in Trentino Alto Adige? Lake Caldaro!
Located along the South Tyrolean wine route just 20 km from Bolzano, Lake Caldaro is positioned between the Mendola massif and Monte di Mezzo at an altitude of 216 metres.
Nestled among vineyards and surrounded by paths suitable for hiking, Nordic walking and cycling, this lake is the ideal destination for anyone in search of outdoor sports and fun.
Of course, Lake Caldaro is also perfect for swimming: there are four beach resorts that welcome tourists looking to cool off. Beware of the temperature, however: the water is very cold and reaches a maximum of 18°!
An intriguing legend revolves around this mountain lake. Its origins are, in fact, shrouded in mystery: it’s said that where the lake now stands, there was once a city full of evil inhabitants and a single family with a noble heart. One evening, dressed as two vagrants, Jesus and Peter came to the village and asked for refreshment, but only the kind family give the travelers a jug of water. When the other villagers refused to offer any help, Jesus overturned the water in the jug triggering a storm that flooded the entire city, and that is how Lake Caldaro was born.
➡ For a stop and a dip in Lake Caldaro we recommend staying at one of our farmhouses in Caldaro!
Lake Accesa in Tuscany
Now let's move on to Maremma in Tuscany. Lake Accesa is located a few kilometers from Massa Marittima in an area rich in natural and archaeological wonders. Entirely surrounded by a dense forest, the lake boasts transparent waters and beautiful sunbathing and picnic areas immersed in a lush vegetation of green meadows, reeds and shrubs.
Some say the waters of Lake Accesa have a relaxing and calming effect, and that they sleep more than usual after bathing in the lake.
Near Lacke Accesa there is an archaeological site where recent excavations have shed light on an Etruscan settlement containing of the remains of houses and a necropolis. The findings are featured in the Archaeological Museum of Massa Marittima.
➡ For a stop and a dip in Lake Accesa we recommend staying at one of our farmhouses in Massa Marittima!
Lake Cavazzo in Friuli Venezia Giulia
This splendid lake in Friuli Venezia Giulia touches three municipalities: Cavazzo Carnico, Bordano and Trasaghis, and is aptly nicknamed “the lake of the three municipalities”. Legend has it that the lake was formed by tears falling from the sky in the form of rain.
At Lake Cavazzo watersports like windsurfing and rowing abound. The lake is an ideal destination for anyone who wants to learn how to sail or for those who enjoy fishing. Along its inviting beaches you can go for a swim or take a pedal boat for a cruise.
Our tip: just 10 minutes from Lake Cavazzo you will find the House of Butterflies. With a vast collection of butterflies and insects on display it’s well worth a visit, especially for travelers with children.
➡ For a stop and a dip in Lake Cavazzo we recommend staying at one of our farmhouses in the province of Udine!
Lake Iseo in Lombardy
We conclude our review of Italian bathing lakes with one of the most famous lakes in Lombardy, Lake Iseo.
Among the beaches where you can stop for a swim we suggest: The Spiaggetta, located in Iseo it offers a lawn area free of charge and many services such as showers, deckchair rentals and a refreshment stand; the free beach of Marone featuring white stones and a beautiful view of the mountains; Monte Isola, the largest Italian lake island which can be reached by ferry from different points around the lake; and the beach of Lido Perla Sebina di Sale Marasino which provides guests with a large expanse of lawn along the water and sunbed rentals to make your visit more comfortable.
➡ For a stop and a dip in Lake Iseo we recommend staying at one of our farmhouses in the province of Brescia!
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