Top 20 Lakes in Calabria
Best lakes in Calabria are found in this region of southern Italy. It is home to several lakes, both natural and artificial, many of which are nestled within the Sila National Park. These lakes provide diverse landscapes for outdoor activities. The region's geography includes mountains and forests, offering varied environments around its water bodies.
Best lakes in Calabria
- The most popular lakes is Lake Cecita, a lake of artificial origin located within the Sila National Park. It is part of the itinerary of the cycle path of the Calabria Parks and features the Cupone Visitor Center.
- Another must-see spot is Lago Ampollino Dam, a man-made monument that created Lake Ampollino for hydroelectric purposes. Visitors can expect extensive pine, beech, and fir forests, along with cycling routes in summer and nearby ski facilities in winter.
- Visitors also love Lorica and Lake Arvo, a lake and settlement known as a tourist center in Sila. This location offers opportunities for water sports and bike excursions.
- Calabria is known for its artificial lakes, natural lakes, and those within national parks. These include significant sites for biodiversity and birdwatching, as well as lakes created for hydroelectric power.
- The lakes in Calabria are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 60 upvotes and over 25 photos shared across various highlights.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Lake Cecita
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Lago Ampollino Dam
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Lorica and Lake Arvo
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San Bruno Pond
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The lake recalls the legend according to which San Bruno did penance and prayed kneeling in the water 1645,
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The Terrace on Lake Arvo
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Lago Ampollino Lakeside Cycle Path
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Monte Botte Donato
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Lake Tarsia
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Lake Angitola
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Tips from the Community
A rather characteristic and beautiful place that can be visited throughout the year. The dam has beautiful vegetation with various species of birds. Furthermore, traffic from the dam to Cantinella Corigliano is limited, good for bicycles...
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From the summit of Mount Botte Donato
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Among the three large Calabrian lakes of the Sila, the Ampollino is certainly the least contaminated and consequently the most authentic to be appreciated by lovers of nature and landscapes.
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Serra San Bruno is worth a visit. Its historic center, full of characteristic churches, the tree-lined avenue leading to the Certosa, and last but not least, the Hermitage of San Bruno, where you can enjoy the cool, tranquil atmosphere, especially during the week. There's also a stream, a cool path, and tables where you can rest under the trees, perhaps enjoying a bite to eat.
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In summer, you can take advantage of numerous cycling routes that lead through diverse landscapes - from mountain spruce forests to water areas of lakes. In winter, the area is home to the Camigliatello Silano ski resort, which attracts skiing and winter sports enthusiasts with its well-prepared facilities and picturesque location in the Sila massif. This is a place more for local skiing enthusiasts and beginners who want to combine active recreation with a vacation in the warm climate of Calabria. If you are looking for more serious skiing routes, you have to go further north in Italy or to the Alps. In Calabria, on the other hand, you will certainly appreciate nature, peace and a unique mountain climate.
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The Ampollino Valley is surrounded by the mountains of the Sila massif, with clearly distinguishable peaks: Scorciavuoi (1627 m above sea level), Gariglione (1623 m above sea level), Zingomarro (1463 m above sea level) and Monte Nero (1747 m above sea level). There are extensive pine, beech and fir forests here, creating a Mediterranean mountain landscape characteristic of the region. The central element of the valley is the artificial reservoir Lago Ampollino, created by a dam (diga) on the Ampollino River. The shores of the lake are overgrown with reed beds and water lilies, and in the area you can see wild animals - deer, wild boars, waterfowl and birds of prey.
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Beautiful pond, built from granite stone
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with the snow it's beautiful
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of outdoor activities can I enjoy around the lakes in Calabria?
The lakes in Calabria offer a wide range of outdoor activities. At Lorica and Lake Arvo, you can enjoy water sports and bike excursions, or explore a 24 km circuit on foot, bike, or horseback. Lake Cecita is popular for sports fishing, hiking, and snowshoeing in winter, and is part of the Calabria Parks cycle path. Lago Ampollino provides opportunities for swimming, canoeing, fishing, and cycling routes in summer, with nearby ski facilities in winter.
Are there family-friendly lakes in Calabria?
Yes, several lakes in Calabria are great for families. Lake Cecita has the Cupone Visitor Center, which offers a naturalistic museum and botanical garden, along with picnic areas. Lorica and Lake Arvo is a well-known tourist center with various activities suitable for all ages. Lago Ampollino Lakeside Cycle Path is a convenient bike path perfect for family rides.
Which lakes are best for nature observation and birdwatching?
For nature enthusiasts, Lago Angitola is a designated WWF Oasis, offering an uncontaminated environment rich in diverse plant and animal species. Lago Ariamacina is a paradise for birdwatchers, featuring the first bird-sighting station in southern Italy and serving as a crucial nesting site for migratory birds. Lake Tarsia, surrounded by a nature reserve, is home to various bird species like grey herons, mallards, and kites, making it ideal for wildlife observation.
What historical or cultural sites can be found near the lakes?
Near Lake Cecita, the Cupone Visitor Center provides insights into the history, nature, and culture of the Sila region. San Bruno Pond is associated with a legend of Saint Bruno, who is said to have done penance there. Additionally, Lago Cecita itself is a valuable archaeological site with discoveries related to Neanderthal man.
Are there hiking trails around the lakes in Calabria?
Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. Lake Cecita is popular for hiking, and the Cupone Visitor Center is an excellent starting point for excursions into the woods. You can find various hiking routes throughout the region, including easy, moderate, and difficult options. For more details on specific trails, explore the Hiking in Calabria guide.
Where can I find easy hiking trails near the lakes?
For easy hikes, consider the areas around Lake Cecita, which offers accessible paths and the Cupone Visitor Center as a starting point. The 24 km circuit around Lago Arvo can also be explored on foot. You can find more easy routes in the Easy hikes in Calabria guide.
What is the best time to visit the lakes in Calabria?
The lakes in Calabria offer different experiences depending on the season. Summer is ideal for water sports, swimming, canoeing, and cycling. In winter, areas like Lago Ampollino and Lorica and Lake Arvo attract visitors for skiing and snowshoeing. Spring and autumn provide pleasant weather for hiking and nature observation, with vibrant flora and fauna.
Are there any unique or natural lakes in Calabria?
While many lakes in Calabria are artificial, created for hydroelectric purposes, the region does have one notable natural lake: Lago dei Due Uomini. Though tiny, it is an attractive feature located at an altitude of 1040 meters in the inner foothills of the Catena Costiera.
Can I go wild swimming in the lakes of Calabria?
Lago Ampollino is mentioned as a spot for swimming during the summer months. While specific 'wild swimming' spots are not explicitly detailed, the natural settings of many lakes, especially those within national parks, offer opportunities for enjoying the water. Always exercise caution and check local regulations before swimming in undeveloped areas.
What facilities are available at the lakes?
At Lake Cecita, the Cupone Visitor Center provides public toilets and picnic tables. The village of Lorica, on the shores of Lake Arvo, serves as a tourist center with amenities. Near Lago Ampollino Lakeside Cycle Path, you might find structures for shelter and places to eat, with camping possibilities by the lake.
Are there cycling routes around the lakes?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Lake Cecita is part of the itinerary of the cycle path of the Calabria Parks. Lorica and Lake Arvo offers bike excursions, and Lago Ampollino has numerous cycling routes, including the convenient Lago Ampollino Lakeside Cycle Path.
Most popular routes in Calabria
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