CNN found the «secret» lakes of Italy that most tourists dont know.
Italyis one of the most beloved destinations worldwide thanks to its historic cities, its beaches and islands and, of course, its food. Close to the neighboring countrys most popular destinations that attract millions of visitors annually, there are also those unexplored places that offer an escape from the crowds.
We’re talking about the enchanting lakes of Italy. Not the famous Como and Garda, but the smaller, "secret" lakes: the ones locals choose for day trips. CNN Travel found six of the best. If you think you’ve seen enough of Italy, these lakes will change your mind.
Lake Turano
One of the best-kept secrets of Lazio, the region around Rome, is Lake Turano. Few visitors to the Eternal City know that just a breath away, north of Rome, lies a captivating place that combines views, history, food and fresh air. When Benito Mussolini ordered the construction of this artificial lake in the 1930s, to supply water to nearby power stations, the last thing he expected was for it to turn into a weekend relaxation haven. Approaching the lake, the enchanting scenery compels drivers to stop at a spot with benches to soak up the view. Two picturesque villages with stone houses offer panoramic views of the lake: medieval Castel di Tora atop the rock and the even older Colle di Tora. There is also a peninsula in the lake with an old monastery. The waters are crystal clear and the pebbled shores have facilities to rent canoes and boats.
Lake Scanno
Beautiful and mysterious, Lake Scanno is the "pearl" of the Abruzzo region in eastern Italy. Various stories and legends surround this verdant, heart-shaped lake encircled by the Apennines, drawing scientists and paranormal researchers who try to find explanations for strange events that have long puzzled locals. Visitors can swim in the lake and go windsurfing, rowing and canoeing. They can also walk the "heart trail" that circles the lake’s shores and ends at a church and an old hermitage, and visit the village of Scanno.
Lake Iseo
Just a few kilometers from Milan, visitors will encounter the picturesque Lake Iseo formed by the pure glacial waters of the Alps. The lake has three islands. The two smaller ones are private while the largest, Montisola, is a paradise for nature lovers. Visitors can rent canoes or boats for a private tour of the lake. Another attraction here is the fishermen’s houses painted in bright colors, standing on stilts over the water.
Lake Nemi
At this small lake a little beyond the southwestern suburbs of Rome, locals flock for Sunday lunches with traditional porchetta pork sandwiches and red wine. In the time of the Roman Empire, senators and wealthy families came here to relax in luxurious retreats around the lakeshore, where juicy strawberries grow among ancient ruins and dense forests. The lake is volcanic in origin and lies in an inactive crater. It is accessible on foot via an old path that descends from the village of the same name.
Lake Orta
Lake Orta is one of the secret gems of the Piedmont region, usually overlooked by visitors who flock to nearby - and more touristy - Lago Maggiore. It is a quiet and idyllic place with picturesque villages, chapels and medieval towers on the lakeshore. In the middle of Orta rises the monastery-island of San Giulio. Visitors can go cycling and horseback riding on trails, water skiing, and even diving.
Lake Trasimeno
This shallow lake, formed millennia ago by tectonic movements of the Earth’s crust, is in a less touristy part of Umbria, where locals have holiday homes. On the lakeshores are medieval settlements and wooden bridges that are ideal for birdwatching and relaxing with views of the sunset. On the beaches they rent windsurf and kite equipment.
