Best lakes around Polino are found in a region known for its diverse natural landscapes, including the broader Pollino National Park. The area features several lakes, such as Lake Piediluco, which is the largest natural lake basin in Umbria after Lake Trasimeno. These lakes are often characterized by their irregular shapes and are fed by rivers like the Velino and Nera. The region provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
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A stop at Piediluco Lake is highly recommended!
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Lago di Piediluco / Lake Piediluco Located in the southeastern foothills of Umbria, with a tributary bordering Lazio, Lake Piediluco, although 1.85 km² wide, is the largest natural lake basin in the region after Lake Trasimeno. Its name seems to be interpreted as "at the foot of the sacred grove." Together with Lakes Lungo, Ripasottile, and Ventina, located in the province of Rieti, it represents one of the remains of the ancient Lacus Velinus, a large basin of alluvial origin formed starting in the Quaternary period. The irregularly shaped lake, with a circumference of approximately 13 kilometers, is located at an altitude of 375 meters and has a maximum depth of approximately 19 meters. Its natural tributary is the Fuscello stream; the other two tributaries are represented by artificial canals. One connects it to the Velino River, while the other, 42 kilometers long, consists almost entirely of tunnels and diverts part of the waters of the Nera River into the lake. The inflow and outflow of water is entirely tailored to the energy needs of the industry in nearby Terni. The emissary, the Velino River, is diverted towards Marmoré, where it flows into the Nera River to form the Marmore Waterfall. Text / Source: wikipedia.org https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lago_di_Piediluco
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Nestled in the green woods of the province of Rieti, Lake Ventina is very small (its surface area is about 0.1 square kilometers) but very charming. It is located in the alluvial plain of the Conca Reatina and its maximum depth is 3.5 meters. It is possible to swim in it, but the lake is especially known for fishing.
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A hamlet of a thousand inhabitants in the municipality of Terni, Piediluco is known for the lake of the same name and is frequented by those visiting the nearby Marmore waterfalls. Of particular charm here is also the Rocca Albornoz, which stands on Monte Luco, abandoned since the end of the 18th century.
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Bring a couple of friends and a portable barbecue
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It's nice to take a walk along the lakeside, well equipped with areas where you can relax, bars and benches
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Bridge over the Velino river. Here the waters of the Velino form the Piediluco Lake, before continuing towards the jump into the Nera River to form the famous Marmore Falls.
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The lakes around Polino offer a variety of activities. At Lake Piediluco, you can enjoy water sports like rowing, sailing, kayaking, and water skiing. The surrounding area also has numerous cycling and hiking trails. Lake Ventina is popular for fishing and swimming. In the broader Pollino National Park, activities include hiking, cycling, birdwatching, rafting, canyoning, horse-riding, and mountain biking.
Yes, several lakes around Polino are considered family-friendly. Lake Piediluco, Confluence of the Velino River and Lake Piediluco, and Lake Ventina are all suitable for families. The Lakeside meadow at Lake Piediluco is also a great spot for families to relax by the water.
You can swim in Lake Ventina, which is a charming small lake nestled in green woods. Additionally, the Lakeside meadow at Lake Piediluco is a grassy area where visitors often swim.
The lakes region offers diverse natural features. Lake Piediluco itself is known for its irregular, almost alpine shape. You can observe the Confluence of the Velino River and Lake Piediluco, where the Velino River flows into the lake before contributing to the Marmore Falls. The area around Lake Ventina is characterized by green woods. The broader Pollino National Park, where Laghetto di Saracena is located, features lush vegetation, diverse wildlife, and deep gorges.
Yes, near Lake Piediluco, you can visit the picturesque medieval village of Piediluco, which features an 11th-century castle, Rocca Albornoz. The lake itself has historical significance, being an artificial creation largely due to Roman engineering in the 3rd century BC.
The summer months are particularly vibrant around Lake Piediluco, with an annual Water Festival taking place during the summer solstice. Generally, warmer months are ideal for water sports and outdoor activities like hiking and cycling around all the lakes.
For stunning views, visit the Bridge over the Velino with a view of Lake Piediluco, which offers a unique perspective of the Velino River forming the lake. The village of Piediluco itself, with its castle on Monte Luco, provides picturesque views of Lake Piediluco.
Yes, the area around the lakes offers numerous hiking opportunities. The extensive Greenway of the Nera provides trails near Lake Piediluco. For more options, you can explore the Running Trails around Polino guide, which includes routes like the 'Leonessa - Monte Tilia Loop' and 'Monte Solenne loop from Ferentillo'.
The region provides various cycling routes. Near Lake Piediluco, you can find trails like the Greenway of the Nera. For more detailed routes, check the Cycling around Polino guide, which features routes such as 'Historic village of Arrone – Piediluco lakeside promenade loop from Arrone' and 'Ferentillo Village – Water Through Time loop from Ferentillo'.
Absolutely. The Pollino National Park, which includes areas with lakes like Laghetto di Saracena, is well-suited for mountain biking. You can find specific routes in the MTB Trails around Polino guide, including challenging options like 'The Sleeping Old Woman – Lake Piediluco loop from Ferentillo' and 'Trail Along the Nera River – Scheggino loop from Ferentillo'.
Lake Piediluco is the second largest lake in Umbria and is notable for its irregular, almost alpine shape and calm, dense waters, making it a national hub for rowing. It's also historically significant as an artificial lake created by Roman engineering, and its waters contribute to the impressive Marmore Falls downstream.
Yes, Lake Ventina is a smaller, charming lake nestled in green woods in the province of Rieti. It's known for its tranquil atmosphere and is particularly popular among fishing enthusiasts.
The Pollino National Park, which encompasses areas with lakes like Laghetto di Saracena, is a UNESCO Global Geopark renowned for its rich wildlife. You might encounter species such as the Apennine wolf and the golden eagle. The park is also home to diverse plant species, including Europe's oldest tree, a 1,230-year-old Heldreich's pine.


Still not found your perfect lake around Polino? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.