Best lakes around Miglionico are primarily characterized by the artificial Lake San Giuliano, a significant body of water formed by damming the Bradano River. This area has evolved into a crucial ecological zone and a regional natural reserve, recognized as a naturalistic oasis managed by the WWF Matera. Miglionico, a historic hill town, benefits from the proximity of this wetland, which offers natural beauty and outdoor opportunities within the Bradano valley. The region provides diverse habitats for wildlife and various…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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Beautiful highlight along Lake San Giuliano on a road forgotten by traffic and time. A dive into a time that seems to have stopped. Discover our Basilicata by bike on www.viaggiatorelento.com
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The Bradano flows into the lake from the northwest and leaves it in the southeast.
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Located in the San Giuliano regional reserve, which is a protected area located between the municipalities of Matera, Miglionico and Grottole, the dam on the Bradano river was created in the 1950s and is clearly visible from this point. The lake has become an oasis managed by the WWF since the end of the 1980s, while in 2006 part of the fossil skeleton of a whale dating back to the Pleistocene was found on its banks. The lake itself extends for almost ten square kilometers.
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Inside the Manferrara Forest not far from Pomarico it is possible to stop in a picnic area next to a pretty lake. A refueling fountain is also available.
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Wildlife oasis and excellent place to rest after a few kilometers of cycling.
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Lake San Giuliano has an extension of 2500 hectares. It represents a naturalistic oasis of the WWF Matera, one of the most important in all of Basilicata.
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The San Giuliano reserve is a protected natural area, including the municipalities of Matera, Miglionico and Grottole
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Lake San Giuliano is an artificial lake that has evolved into a vital ecological area and a regional natural reserve. It's recognized internationally under the Ramsar Convention and is a designated WWF Oasis. It's a crucial habitat for diverse wildlife, especially migratory birds, with approximately 180 species recorded, making it exceptional for birdwatching. Rare animals like the otter also inhabit the reserve. The area offers natural beauty, serenity, and panoramic views of the Bradano valley.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. The area is popular for hiking and mountain biking along numerous naturalistic trails. Fishing, especially for black bass, is also a popular pastime. You can find several routes for different sports, including MTB Trails around Miglionico, Gravel biking around Miglionico, and Hiking around Miglionico.
Yes, there are several hiking trails. For example, a moderate 15.7 km route named 'Lake San Giuliano' is available. You can explore more options and detailed information on the Hiking around Miglionico guide page.
Yes, several spots are considered family-friendly. The San Giuliano Lake Nature Reserve itself is suitable for families, offering opportunities for nature observation. Additionally, Manferrara Pond, located within the Manferrara Forest, features a picnic area with a refueling fountain, perfect for a family outing.
The provided information does not explicitly state the dog policy for the Lake San Giuliano Natural Reserve. It's advisable to check local regulations or contact the reserve management directly before visiting with your dog.
The region research indicates that the presence of birdlife within the reserve is of great importance especially during wintering and migrations. This suggests that late autumn, winter, and early spring might be particularly rewarding for birdwatching enthusiasts. For general outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, spring and autumn typically offer pleasant weather.
Yes, there are excellent viewpoints. The View of Lake San Giuliano highlight offers panoramic perspectives from a quiet secondary road. Another great spot is the View of Lake San Giuliano from Colle Timmari, which provides a wonderful panorama of the dam and the Matera hills.
You can find a pleasant picnic area next to Manferrara Pond, located within the Manferrara Forest. This spot also provides a refueling fountain for visitors.
Lake San Giuliano is a significant habitat for wildlife, especially migratory birds, with about 180 species recorded. You might spot gray herons, egrets, grebes, and coots. In winter, species like the great white heron, cormorant, and rare ferruginous duck appear. Among mammals, porcupines, badgers, wild cats, stone martens, and even otters have been observed.
Absolutely. A notable route is the Forgotten road, a cycleway along Lake San Giuliano that offers a journey through a landscape untouched by modern traffic. For more cycling options, explore the MTB Trails around Miglionico and Gravel biking around Miglionico guide pages.
The provided information does not detail specific public transport routes from Miglionico or Matera directly to Lake San Giuliano. It is recommended to check local bus schedules or regional transport services for the most current information on reaching the reserve.
The available information does not indicate that permits are required for general hiking within the Lake San Giuliano Natural Reserve. However, for specific activities like guided excursions or environmental education programs, it's best to inquire with the reserve management.


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