The Magic of Abruzzo Blog
"We travel not to escape life but for life not to escape us." Anonymous
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I’m sure you have heard by now of the Central Italian Region of Abruzzo and its hidden gems from hermitages to roman ruins but have you heard of Abruzzo's majestic lakes? There are more than 14 natural or man-made lakes throughout the region’s national parks. We’ve listed them below. They are grouped according to the province in which they are found. Whether you enjoy nature, fishing, boating, swimming, picnicking or just strolling along the water’s edge on a summer’s day – these majestic lakes are for you. Four of these lakes are not far from our B&B in Roccacasale and are the largest of Abruzzo’s lakes. so we’ve chosen to highlight them here with information on what to do, where to eat, and how to get there. Lake Scanno Lago di Scanno is in the province of L’Aquila and is the largest natural lake in Abruzzo. Half of the lake is protected by the Abruzzo National Park and in the other half fishing (mostly of perch and trout) is controlled by the municipality of Villalago. There are plenty of ducks on the lake and other birdlife. It is largely composed of peregrine falcons, hawks, owls, and eagles. This lake has become famous because it appears to be shaped like a heart if you are looking down on it from above. Half of the fun of going to Lago di Scanno is the journey from Roccacasale to Scanno on the rocky the mountainous road through the Sagittario Gorge. It’s only 45 minutes from the house and the views along the way are spectacular. There is plenty to do around the lake. The magical, sparkling waters of the lake invite swimmers, rowers, canoeists, and pedalo rides. Many visitors choose to picnic on the many short stretches of pebble beaches. There are a few restaurants along the water’s edge including the Hotel Del Lago restaurant which serves pasta, Panini and Abruzzo’s famous arrosticini (lamb skewers) where you can sit outside with a lovely view of the lake. Lake San Domenico Along the way to Lake Scanno, just outside the village of Villalago, we usually stop at the peaceful, blue waters of Lago di San Domenico. You can cross a bridge over the lake, which is decorated with bricks with the names of the families who donated to its construction. The bridge leads to the Hermitage of San Domenico. Under this bridge is a lovely, ancient Roman bridge that used to be the only way across the lake to a small chapel and the hermitage of San Domenico. According to tradition, in the 10th century, Saint Domenico dug the cave in which he lived as a hermit. Later, San Domenico’s retreat became a place of worship for many and a beautiful little church (chapel) was built as a tribute to him. At the rear of the church, is a door that leads to a steep and narrow staircase right to the dark cavern where San Domenico once slept. If you walk along a path to the right of the chapel you will find a lovely little park with picnic tables where you can sit on the side of the lake and have a picnic and enjoy nature. You’ll be able to hear the sound of a small waterfall across the lake from the chapel and a walking path to hike up to a lookout point. There is a small restaurant where you can buy a sandwich, chips, ice cream or a bottle of soda. Lake Campotosto Lago di Campotosto is the largest of Abruzzo’s man-made lakes covering 14 square km. The lake was created between 1930 and 1940 with the construction of three dams the aim was to use the water for the hydroelectric plant located in the Volmano Valley. The basin of the lake is surrounded by slopes containing clay and rock, chalky mountains. The lake is well-liked by tourists during the summer months. Its main attraction is its 40 km lakefront which is very popular for cycling, jogging, trekking, and horseback riding. Lake sports include kayaking, kitesurfing, and windsurfing. You can stop on the side of the lake at an eatery called The Kiosk for great views, good drinks, and snacks. You may even be able to snag some of its renowned Campotosto mortadella which is a type of cured meat. The location is somewhat isolated but perfect for an afternoon aperitivo. If you are looking for more than a snack, try one of the two restaurants on the lake. Both have excellent 5-star reviews: Locanda Mausonium (grilled meats, great wine, and service) and Osteria Del Pescatore Di Masci Silvana (cozy and casual with a simple and tasty menu). Lake Bomba
Lago di Bomba is in the province of Chieti, about an hour and a half away from the B&B. This picturesque artificial lake is surrounded by the quaint villages of Bomba, Colledimezzo, Pietraferrazzana, Villa Santa Maria, Montebello sul Sangro and the majestic mountains. The first time I visited the lake, I was in awe as we rounded the corner and saw this magical lake appear out of nowhere. It was created in 1962 to produce hydroelectric power which is transported to Rome. The lake waters are rich in fish fauna, from chub to carp, from royal perch to tench, to catfish, eels, and trout. The most favorable season for fishing goes from April to the end of October, Though the main function of the lake is the production of electricity, it is also enjoyed by many for tourism and sport. Several fishing, boating, and windsurfing competitions take place on the lake as well as organized boat and pedal boat trips, especially during the summer months. It is also a popular destination for hikers, campers, and free climbers. Places to eat while visiting Lake Bomba: L’Altro Pianeta “best pizza in the world” and Pizzaria La Collina “We spent an unforgettable evening in this place that calling a pizzeria is truly reductive! We ate superb tripe and baccala (codfish) pizzas and peppers to say the least sublime! The pizza dough is truly unsurpassed, next time we will try gramigna pasta with sausage.” If you are looking for direct contact with nature, be sure not to miss these fabulous lakes. If you’d like to plan a trip to see all the wonders of Abruzzo including its picturesque lakes – call us and we will do the planning for you. Visit our website at www.laroccamiahouse.com or email us at la.rocca.mia@outlook.com to work with our planner to design a trip specifically for you. Useful list of Lakes located in the Abruzzo region of Italy In the Provence of L’Aquila Lake Campotosto Lake Scanno Lake Barrea Lake Sinizzo Lake Provvidenza Lake Sirente Lake San Domenico Lake Campo Imperatore In the Province of Chieti Lake Bomba Lake Sant’Angelo Lake Serranella In the Province of Pescara Lake Penne In the Province of Teramo Lake Talvacchia Lake Piaganini Comments are closed.
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About the authorThis blog is curated by Margaret Gigliotti, B&B owner, teacher, explorer, wine drinker and creative writer. Looking for ideas of places to visit in Abruzzo. Download our free guide of the best places most people miss.
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email us at: la.rocca.mia@outlook.com
website: www.laroccamiahouse.com Telephone: +39 3888 272982 |