Lago di Campotosto
Italy's largest artificial lake, offering serene mountain views, hiking, and water sports within a national park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Spectacular foliage colors
Lago di Campotosto
Best Time
Spectacular foliage colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Italy's largest artificial lake, offering serene mountain views, hiking, and water sports within a national park.
"A magic place for relaxing, with amazing mountain views and bird watching."
Pack for the Elements
Weather can change quickly. Bring layers, sturdy shoes, and rain gear, especially if hiking. :athletic_shoe:
Embrace the Quiet
This is a remote and serene spot. Perfect for disconnecting and enjoying nature's sounds. :ear:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Monte Cardito Viewpoint
Near Monte Cardito
A short, rewarding hike to one of the most stunning panoramic views in central Italy.
Lakeside Picnics
Various spots along the shore
Enjoy a relaxing picnic with breathtaking mountain backdrops. Many areas are equipped for barbecues.
Autumn Foliage
Surrounding hillsides
Witness a spectacular display of colors as the leaves change, transforming the landscape into a vibrant masterpiece.
Water Sports
Lake surface
Engage in activities like kayaking and windsurfing on the expansive, clear waters of the lake.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Best for Nature Lovers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for the Elements
Weather can change quickly. Bring layers, sturdy shoes, and rain gear, especially if hiking. :athletic_shoe:
Embrace the Quiet
This is a remote and serene spot. Perfect for disconnecting and enjoying nature's sounds. :ear:
Scenic Drive
The drive to the lake is beautiful, especially the SR577. Enjoy the journey! :car:
Bird Watching Paradise
It's a fantastic spot for bird watching. Keep an eye out for diverse avian species. :bird:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for the Elements
Weather can change quickly. Bring layers, sturdy shoes, and rain gear, especially if hiking. :athletic_shoe:
Embrace the Quiet
This is a remote and serene spot. Perfect for disconnecting and enjoying nature's sounds. :ear:
Scenic Drive
The drive to the lake is beautiful, especially the SR577. Enjoy the journey! :car:
Bird Watching Paradise
It's a fantastic spot for bird watching. Keep an eye out for diverse avian species. :bird:
Rock Skipping Fun
The rocky shores are perfect for skipping flat stones on the water. Kids love it! :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Lago di Campotosto's serene beauty and stunning natural landscapes, calling it a 'magic place' perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities. The panoramic views, picnic spots, and tranquil atmosphere are highlights, though some note the remoteness and limited facilities. It's a highly recommended destination for nature lovers seeking peace and quiet.
"A must visit place if you like nature. Amazing mountain view and bird watching place. Lots of picnic areas around the lake."
Dom S
"Nice lake for relaxing along the shore. Also looked like you could camp along side it in many areas. Very remote, and serene. Shores of lake are rocky, but water is pretty clear."
Melanie Cress
"We visited early August. It's a beautiful clear lake with rocky shores and mountains surrounding. The water was cold but not freezing, and the kids loved skipping the ubiquitous flat rocks on the water."
Dan Jacobson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lago di Campotosto is best reached by car. The drive along the SR577 offers stunning scenery, particularly if you're coming from the Amatrice area. It's a remote location, so public transport options are limited. :car:
Yes, there's a road that circles the lake, making it easy to access different viewpoints and picnic areas. Parking is generally available along the shore. :parking:
The roads leading to and around the lake are generally well-maintained, though some can be winding. Be prepared for beautiful, scenic routes. :road:
Yes, you can visit in winter, and it offers a magical snowy landscape. However, be sure to check road conditions as snow can impact accessibility. :snowflake:
Absolutely! Lago di Campotosto is nestled within the Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga, offering a protected and pristine natural environment. :park:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Lago di Campotosto and its surrounding natural areas is free. You can explore the lake and its shores without any admission fees. :free:
Parking is generally free in designated areas along the lake's perimeter. However, it's always a good idea to check for any local signage, especially during peak seasons. :parking:
Lago di Campotosto is an open natural area, so it doesn't have specific opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are best for enjoying the scenery and activities. :clock:
While there might not be official campgrounds, many reviews suggest that camping along the shores is possible in certain areas. Always practice Leave No Trace principles. :tent:
The hiking trails around Lago di Campotosto are part of the natural park and are free to access. Enjoy exploring the beautiful mountain paths. :hiking_boot:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a variety of activities including walking, hiking, bird watching, picnicking, and water sports like kayaking and windsurfing. The surrounding mountains offer excellent hiking opportunities. :kayak: :hiking_boot:
Yes, there are numerous picnic areas along the lake's shores, many equipped for barbecues. It's a perfect spot for a relaxed outdoor meal. :barbecue:
Definitely! Families can enjoy the scenic drives, picnic spots, and the simple joy of skipping stones on the rocky shores. It's a peaceful environment for children to connect with nature. :family_child:
Expect stunning views of the clear lake surrounded by mountains, especially beautiful during the autumn foliage season. The Monte Cardito viewpoint offers particularly breathtaking panoramas. :mountain: :lake: 
Absolutely! The lake, mountains, and changing seasons offer incredible photographic opportunities. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical. :camera:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the immediate area around the lake is quite remote and focused on nature, you can find restaurants and agriturismos in nearby towns like Amatrice or in the villages surrounding the lake. :restaurant:
It's advisable to bring your own food and drinks, especially if you plan to picnic or barbecue, as facilities directly at the lake are minimal. :shopping_bags:
The region is known for hearty, traditional Italian cuisine, often featuring local produce, pasta dishes, and cured meats. Agriturismos offer authentic farm-to-table experiences. :pasta:
You're unlikely to find many cafes or snack bars directly on the lake. It's best to come prepared with your own provisions for a day trip. :coffee:
Look for agriturismos in the surrounding countryside for a true taste of Abruzzo. Towns like Amatrice also offer local trattorias and restaurants. :forkandknife:
📸 📸 Photography
The entire perimeter of the lake offers stunning photographic opportunities. Don't miss the panoramic viewpoint from Monte Cardito and the reflections on the water during calm mornings. :camera:
Golden hours, around sunrise and sunset, offer the most dramatic light and beautiful colors. Midday can be harsh, but still offers clear views of the landscape. :sunriseovermountains:
It's ideal for landscape photography, nature shots, and capturing serene moments. The changing seasons, from snowy winters to vibrant autumns, provide diverse subjects. :landscape:
Drones can offer incredible perspectives of the lake and surrounding mountains. However, always check local regulations regarding drone usage in national parks. :drone:
The remote location means you'll need to be self-sufficient with gear. Weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for various conditions. :cloud:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The surrounding area offers gentle walking paths suitable for little legs, and the overall calm and serene environment is ideal for children to connect with nature. While there aren't many organized attractions, the sheer beauty of the lake and mountains provides a natural playground. Remember to pack snacks, drinks, and sun protection, as facilities are limited.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Beyond Monte Cardito, the park offers a variety of trails for all levels. Whether you're looking for a leisurely walk along the lake or a more strenuous mountain trek, you'll find options to suit your preference. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear, carry water, and consult trail maps, as some paths can be remote. The sounds of nature and the pristine environment make every step worthwhile.
📸 Photographers
+1Don't miss capturing the reflections on the water during calm mornings or the vibrant foliage in autumn. For unique perspectives, consider using a drone (check regulations first) to capture aerial views of the vast lake and its surroundings. The remote nature of the location means you'll often have the stunning vistas all to yourself, allowing for uninterrupted creative time.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails Around Lago di Campotosto
For those seeking longer excursions, the park offers a network of paths that delve deeper into the mountainous terrain. These routes are ideal for experiencing the wilder side of Abruzzo, with opportunities for bird watching and encountering diverse flora and fauna. It's advisable to carry a map, plenty of water, and wear appropriate hiking gear, as some trails can be rugged and remote. The sounds of nature are a constant companion, making for a truly immersive experience.
When planning your hikes, consider the season. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and wildflowers, while autumn provides a breathtaking canvas of fall colors. Winter can bring snow, transforming the landscape into a serene, white wonderland, but requires extra caution and preparation for icy conditions. Regardless of the season, the trails around Lago di Campotosto promise unforgettable natural encounters.
The Magic of Lago di Campotosto in Different Seasons
Winter brings a serene, almost ethereal beauty to the lake. Snow blankets the landscape, creating a peaceful and quiet atmosphere. While some activities might be limited, the snowy vistas are incredibly picturesque, and the drive itself can be magical, as noted by those who've experienced it. Visitors should always check road conditions during winter months.
Spring and summer offer a more active experience. The landscape awakens with lush greenery and wildflowers, and the lake becomes ideal for water sports like kayaking and windsurfing. The warmer weather also makes it perfect for lakeside picnics and longer hikes, allowing visitors to fully embrace the natural surroundings.
+1Community Insights: What Travelers Love About Lago di Campotosto
The abundance of picnic areas and the opportunity for barbecues are also popular features, making it an ideal spot for families and groups looking for an outdoor dining experience. The rocky shores are noted as being perfect for children to enjoy skipping stones, adding a simple yet delightful activity to the visit.
While the natural beauty is a primary draw, some visitors also appreciate the opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, and bird watching. The scenic drive to the lake is also a positive aspect for many, adding to the overall road trip experience.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit