Northern route in Italy: the most beautiful lakes in the country. Lakes of Italy
In Italy there is not only a world famous cities, outstanding architecture and incredibly delicious food, but also beautiful, romantic lakes.
Many tourists, especially those who come to Italy for the first time, limit their stay in the country to visiting Rome, Florence and Venice. Traveling to the shores of the Italian lake region is a chance to see a completely different Italy.
There are many lakes in the northern part of the country. Some of them are larger and more attractive for tourists, especially during the summer months. Others cannot boast of a large area, but are distinguished by the beauty of landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere. Haven't decided which lake to visit yet? Perhaps the TOP 5 best Italian lakes will help you decide on the choice of destination.
1. Lake Garda
Garda is the largest lake in Italy and one of the most important tourist destinations southern European country. There are many hotels, resorts and vacationers on its banks. And since Lake Garda is located almost halfway from Venice to Milan, it is easy to combine a trip to Garda with a tour to these two cities. There are several islands on the lake, the largest of which is called Isola del Garda.2. Lake Como and Villa Balbianello
Glamorous Lake Como is popular among aristocrats, show business stars and simply millionaires. It is quite possible that this is the most beautiful Italian lake. On the banks of the reservoir there are attractive estates, luxurious palaces and luxurious villas. There are houses of George Clooney, Richard Branson and other celebrities here. Scenes from Casino Royale, the 21st James Bond movie, were filmed at Villa Balbianello on Lake Como. Located in the Lombardy region, Lake Como is one of the deepest lakes in Europe (its depth reaches four hundred meters). The shape of the reservoir resembles an inverted "Y". Near the lake are the cities: Como, Bellagio, Tremezzo and Varena.
3. Lago Maggiore (Lago Maggiore, literally: "Big Lake")
Lago Maggiore is the second largest lake in Italy, stretching for 70 kilometers from the Italian Arona to the Swiss Locarno. Here you will find the famous Borromean Islands, including Isola Madre and Isola Bella, famous for their gardens. The climate here is generally temperate, but the influence of the Mediterranean climate is strong enough for the growth of exotic and subtropical plants.
4. Lake Orta
To the west of Lago Maggiore lies Lake Orta, one of the smallest in northern Italy. There are quite a few tourists here. Main city- Orta San Giulio. It is a charming town with narrow streets, small shops, cozy restaurants and great views of the lake. Wander along the banks of the Horta, enjoy lunch in a cafeteria by the water, take a boat trip to the picturesque island of San Giulio. If you have free time, visit the neighboring towns of Pella and Omegna.
5. Lake Trasimeno (or Lake Trasimeno)
Unlike the above lakes, Lake Trasimene is located in the heart of the Apennine Peninsula, in Perugia (province of Umbria). It's shallow drainless lake, which means that no river flows into Trasimeno or flows out of it. Replenishment of water evaporating from the surface of the reservoir occurs exclusively due to rains. Visit the medieval walled town of Castiglione. Take a boat and sail to two of the three islands of Trasimento: Isola Maggiore and Isola Polvese. The lake is simply magnificent at sunset, when the crimson sky is reflected in its waters.Tired of Asian poverty on blog pages? Do you want juicy pictures of beautiful Italy? You are welcome!
I am often asked for advice, they ask me to suggest routes in a particular country. Here it is: your next vacation can be spent in Italy, traveling through small towns that stand on the famous lakes of the north of the country.
1 One of the most beautiful driving routes in Europe on the new Skoda Superb Combi business station wagon. About the car I last year, when I went to the first presentation. 
2 In the same report - only beauty! Beautiful views, beautiful cities, nice cars. It's been a long time since a blog has had so much beauty in one place! 
3 Lago Maggiore conquers the heart at first sight. Snow on the tops of the mountains lies even in May. 
4 Million Dollar Views! 
5 Staying in a hotel with such a view costs only a couple of hundred euros per day. 
6 Near the city of Stresa there is a tiny island of Isola Bella, very beautiful. So its name is translated. 
7 You should definitely take a small ferry to the island to see the impressive Borromean palace and bizarre wildlife, white peacocks, importantly walking around the island. 
8 The island is decorated with statues of angels and unicorns, and in general, everything is so vanilla-magical that I decided to process the photos. 
9 I have never seen white peacocks! 
10 Beautiful birds, but only in front. 
11 The rocky island was built up in the 17th century by order of the influential Milanese Borromeo family. The luxurious country residence was a gift for the wife of Charles III Isabella. The island itself was named after her. 
12 It's time for us to say goodbye to the cozy island and move on. 
13 Hello Lake Como! One of the deepest lakes in Europe, up to 400 meters! 
14 The beauty of the island impressed many Hollywood directors: several famous films were filmed on these shores at once: Star Wars, Ocean's 12, Casino Royale. 
15 Well, I don’t know how to comment on postcard pictures:) I will continue to pour well-known facts! 
16 Tourists are delighted! 
17 What to do in the vicinity of the lake? Idly stroll through the many historic villas and pavilions open to the public. 
18 It is interesting not only on the lakes, but also between them. I want to stop in all these small towns and take a little walk. 
19 Italians - entertainers to strange vehicles. 
20 And also, in their climate, cars don't get old for some reason. 
21 Wow! 
22 There are bloggers who turn up their noses at press tours. In fact, they are not called there. It's a great way to see places you wouldn't go on your own. Well, imagine where I am and where the lakes of Italy are. And so - and content, and machines, and communication with colleagues. 
23 Here, and this is mine favorite place on the entire route. City of Sermione. 
24 If someone had an ice cream eating championship at the same time, Sermione would take first place! 
25 It is delicious everywhere in Italy, but here - especially! 
26 There are dozens of shops with desserts on the main street inside the old town, so this is a real local speciality. Recommend! 
27 Sermione stands on Lake Garda, the largest and most beautiful in all of Italy. It is considered one of the most beautiful on the planet. Local resorts have been chosen by celebrities and rich people from all over the world: some have bought a villa for themselves a long time ago, others come to rest. 
28 Among the star owners of real estate on the banks of the Garda - Brad Pitt, Formula 1 driver Sebastian Vettel, settled with the Ricky Martin family. And in the old days, Goethe, Oscar Wilde, Kafka rested here. So keep your eyes peeled and see who you recognize! 
29 Have you already paid attention to the turrets of the fortress? If not, look carefully! 
30 Doesn't remind you of anything? 
31 Such loopholes are found everywhere in northern Italy, and this is exactly what the walls of the Moscow Kerml look like. Do you remember where the architects were sent from to build the royal residence? 
32 Hundreds of thousands of tourists come here to touch the beauty. Swimming is not very good here, but trips to the lakes are contemplative tourism. However, daredevils can try, only the water is very cold, even in summer. 
33 The north of Italy is not only lakes and fortresses, but also the world-famous food, the name of which was given by the cities. You don't have to look far for an example - Bologna and Parma. Passing by, I noticed the city of Salo on the sign ... Ukrainians, is this your invention? :) 
34 Suberb Combi is simply made for long-distance travel. You don’t get tired behind the wheel at all, and the car itself helps: adaptive cruise control, blind spot sensors in the mirrors and many other “chips”. And yet, so many things are placed in it that it is even on vacation, even in a building materials store. Personally, I like the station wagon much more than the sedan. And you? 
35 What is the name of this fortress, I no longer remember - there were too many of them in a couple of days. 
36 In a week I'm going on another trip with Skoda, this time to ride around Corsica. Another place I wouldn't go myself, but I've heard a lot about. 
37 Have you been to Italy? Where did you like it the most? 
It is not for nothing that Italy is considered a romantic country all over the world. This is due to the fact that on its territory there are a large number of beautiful lakes. With each lake of natural origin, Italians associate an ancient legend, and sometimes even a completely realistic story. These stories are passed on local residents for many centuries to the heirs.
In total, there are one and a half thousand lakes in Italy, but most of this number are just small mountain reservoirs. The most beautiful and comfortable climatic conditions Alpine lakes are considered, which are located in the foothills of the Lombard Alps. It is the environment of the mountains that creates a mild and warm climate in this area. This is the largest in the country, the second largest, as well as Lugano and Iseo.
Lake Iseo on the map
Their banks are adorned with beautiful groves of citrus and olive trees, palms and cypresses, vineyards and flowering shrubs. Ancient castles, palaces and modern hotels with hotels are successfully inscribed in the landscape. These places are very popular among fans of excursions, and among those who like to spend their holidays in solitude.
Lakes of volcanic origin are considered a separate attraction of the country. Such lakes are located in craters for a long time extinct volcanoes mainly on the territory of the Apennine peninsula near Rome. These are the lakes of Bracciano, Bolsena, Nemi, Lake Alban.
Lake Bracciano on the map
Most of the lakes in Italy can be defined as very clean and characterized by the transparency of their waters.
The local infrastructure is quite developed. That is why the lakeside region has become a good place for the development of the tourism business.
Lakes Nemi and Albano on the map
Even in ancient times, many famous people visited these places, trying to find peace and quiet, to surround themselves with extraordinary beauty and tranquility.
At present, the traditions have not changed. Also, the lakes of Italy are extremely popular among honeymooners. It is not for nothing that Italy is a romantic country. Photo materials used from Wikimedia © Foto, Wikimedia Commons
In 1818, the famous poet Lord Shelley wrote of Lake Como: "it exceeds all that I have ever beheld in beauty." And here is what Henry James wrote about it a few decades later: “You cannot describe the beauty of the Italian Lakes, and at the same time you could not try if you could.”
Lake Como and the lands around it have attracted the rich and famous people, and in medieval times this place was the center of trade in silk and stones. The main lakes of northern Italy - Como, Maggiore, Orta, Iseo and Garda - still inspire and impress with their beauty as they did centuries ago.
Lakes of Italy
George Clooney was impressed by the beauty of these places, he decided to settle here and now owns an 8 million villa in Laglio on the shores of Lake Como. However, you don't need a bank account like a movie star to buy property here. A two-bedroom apartment overlooking Lake Como costs from €125,000. These places are so beautiful that films such as Star Wars were filmed here. Episode II. Attack of the Clones" and "Casino Royale".
Lake Como
Lake Como is the most deep lake Europe and the third largest lake in Italy. One of the most beautiful places on the lakes, to buy property - Bellagio, also known as the pearl on the lake. Many will say that this is the prettiest city in Europe.
Other beautiful villages located on the beguera: Colico, Tremezzo, Mandello del Lario and Varen. For a truly breathtaking view, take the seven-minute funicular ride to Brunato, a 2,400-foot hill above Lake Como. The view of all seven lakes, as well as the Alps and Switzerland, is striking in its beauty.
Lake Maggiore
Lake Maggiore is also stunning in its beauty, its west coast is more popular among tourists. On this side of the lake are picturesque towns and villages, with villas and gardens, but the heart of Lake Maggiore is undoubtedly Stresa, located opposite the Borromeo Gulf. Ernest Hemingway, Charles Dickens and Lord Byron are just some of the famous poets and writers who sang about the beauty of these places.
Among the most popular excursions from Stresa are regular ferry crossings to the three Borromean Islands - Isola Madre, Isola Bella, Isola Pescatore, the smallest of the three with only 50 people.
Lake Garda
Sirmione, Desenzano, Riva del Garda, Malcesine, like most lakes Northern Italy, towns and villages on the shores of Lake Garda have attracted people for thousands of years. The main attraction here is the castle, preserved from the time of the Roman Empire.
Lake Orta
Lake Orta is for those who prefer solitude and peace to a large crowd. Its main resort is Orta San Giulio on east coast, a city so picturesque, is a favorite for photo shoots, weddings and property purchases on the Italian lakes.
Lake Iseo
This lake is sandwiched between the famous Lake Garda and Lake Como. In the middle of it sits San Giulio Isola, largest island all European lakes. Lake Iseo is also popular with investors who buy Italian properties on the lakes with a view to subsequent transactions. A small apartment with a terrace and/or garden overlooking the lake costs from 120,000 €.
It doesn't have to be the sea! It is under this motto that I want to introduce you to the most beautiful lakes in Italy. A holiday in Italy doesn't have to be about the beach or museums. It can be done creatively, for example, on the shores of one of the famous lakes in northern Italy, each of which is unique. If you love nature and appreciate its majestic beauty, then the lakes of Italy are just made for you.
This short guide will introduce you to the best lakes in Italy and give you new holiday ideas.
Lago Maggiore
Castle on the Isola Bella - the main attraction of Lake MaggioreLago Maggiore (literally: “ big lake”) is the second largest lake in Italy. Because of his geographical location in the snow-white Lombard Alps, Lago Maggiore represents the border between Italy and Switzerland.
Due to its mild climate, there are many resorts in the vicinity of the lake, the largest of which is located in the municipality of Stresa. The main attraction of Lago Maggiore is the Borromean Islands - a small archipelago in the middle of the lake. The most beautiful of them is Isola Bella, on which stands an ancient palace built by an Italian aristocrat as a gift to his wife. Today the palace houses a museum open to visitors.
Lake Lugano
Lake Lugano is divided between two countries - Italy and Switzerland
Lake Lugano is divided between Italy and Switzerland, and is not inferior in popularity to its competitors - Lake Maggiore and Como. The surroundings of Lake Lugano are extremely picturesque. Here you will find many ancient castles, monasteries and chapels. Holidays on Lake Lugano are considered healing and rejuvenating. Between the southern arms of the lake is famous mountain San Giorgio, where Italian and Swiss archaeologists continue their excavations, studying prehistoric fossils that lived here hundreds of millions of years ago, when Mount San Giorgio was still washed by the sea.
Lake Como
Lake Como can certainly be called the most romantic of the five main Italian lakes, and perhaps the most popular. Off the coast of Como, landscapes of unsurpassed beauty open up, and in the vicinity there are flowering gardens and elegant villas of prominent people and stars. Como is located just an hour from Milan, which provides an excellent opportunity to visit not only famous lake, but also . And of course, during which you will see all the listed beauties.
Lake Iseo
Lake Iseo enchants with its tranquil beauty
Lake Iseo, located in the same Lombard Prealps, is less known than its famous counterparts, and is far from the tourist epicenters. However, that is why Iseo is a place of peace, crystal waters and green mountains covered with dewy greenery. In the town of the same name, Iseo, on the shore of the lake, there is the main attraction - the Oldofredi fortress, built in the 11th century. The inhabitants of Iseo are engaged in fishing and olive oil production, and also hold sailing regattas on their native lake.
Lake Garda
Lake Garda is the largest in Italy
Lake Garda, located at the southern foot of the Alps, is the largest lake in Italy. The picturesque town of Sirmione, located on the southern shore of the lake, has become a favorite resort since the time of the Roman Republic. Everyone who is going to visit Lake Garda must stop in this charming town! The ancient castle of the Scaligers and the Grottoes of Catullus, named after the ancient Roman poet Catullus, who sang the beauty of Sirmione in his poems, are a must to visit!
What lake do you like?
