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Lake Ampollino

Attractions and Places To See around Lake Ampollino - Top 4

Best attractions and places to see around Lake Ampollino. This artificial lake, nestled within the Sila massif, offers a diverse range of natural features and cultural insights. Surrounded by dense forests and lush greenery, it is considered one of the most authentic of the large Calabrian lakes. The lake spans three provinces: Cosenza, Crotone, and Catanzaro, and is enveloped by the Sila mountains.

Best attractions and places to see around Lake Ampollino

  • The most popular attractions is Lago Ampollino Dam, a man-made monument that created the artificial reservoir for hydroelectric purposes. Inaugurated in 1927, this dam blocked the Ampollino river and is connected to Lake Arvo by a penstock.
  • Another must-see spot is Lago Ampollino Lakeside Cycle Path, a cycle way offering striking water views. This convenient path runs parallel to the south shore of Lake Ampollino, providing scenic routes for cyclists.
  • Visitors also love Lake Ampollino, a lake formed by the damming of the Ampollino river. Its shores are characterized by reed beds and water lilies, and the surrounding area is home to diverse wildlife.
  • Lake Ampollino is known for its natural features, cycling routes, and hiking trails. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from the lake itself to surrounding forests and mountain peaks.
  • The attractions around Lake Ampollino are appreciated by the komoot community, with 32 upvotes and 24 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: July 2, 2026

Lago Ampollino Dam

Highlight • Monument

At the beginning of the 20th century the course of the Ampollino river was blocked to give rise to the first artificial dam built in Sila for hydroelectric purposes. Lake Ampollino, surrounded by the Sila Piccola and Sila Grande mountains, is connected to Lake Arvo by a penstock and feeds the Orichella, Timpa Grande and Calusia power stations.

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Lago Ampollino Lakeside Cycle Path

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This convenient bike path runs parallel to the south shore of Lake Ampollino and offers some striking water views.

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Trail from Torre Dodaro to Caporosa

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A magnificent trail that passes through woods and clearings on Lake Ampollino. At the entrance from Torre Dodaro, you'll find large dogs wagging their tails.

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Popular around Lake Ampollino

Cycling around Lake Ampollino

Road Cycling Routes around Lake Ampollino

MTB Trails around Lake Ampollino

Hiking around Lake Ampollino

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Ciccioscapin
August 27, 2025, Sentiero da Torre Dodaro a Caporosa

A magnificent trail that passes through woods and clearings on Lake Ampollino. At the entrance from Torre Dodaro, you'll find large dogs wagging their tails.

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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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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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A little-frequented lake immersed in peace.

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Beautiful lake, not very touristy. You will find only a couple of structures that give shelter but you can camp by the lake. Council at the cycle path between the Palumbo campsite and Baffa. You will also find them to eat.

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This convenient bike path runs parallel to the south shore of Lake Ampollino and offers some striking water views.

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lakefront on a new cycle path parallel to the road

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Frequently Asked Questions

What natural features can I explore around Lake Ampollino?

Lake Ampollino is surrounded by lush greenery and dense forests, making it one of the most authentic Calabrian lakes. Its shores feature picturesque reed beds and water lilies. You can also explore the surrounding Sila mountains, including peaks like Scorciavuoi (1627m) and Monte Nero (1747m), which are covered in extensive pine, beech, and fir forests. The lake itself, Lake Ampollino, is a central natural element.

Are there opportunities for cycling around Lake Ampollino?

Yes, the area offers numerous cycling routes. A convenient option is the Lago Ampollino Lakeside Cycle Path, which runs parallel to the south shore and provides scenic views. You can find various road cycling routes, including the 'Lake Ampollino Loop' and 'Lake Arvo and Lake Ampollino Loop', by checking the Road Cycling Routes around Lake Ampollino guide.

What kind of hiking trails can I find near Lake Ampollino?

You'll find a variety of hiking trails, from easy walks to more challenging routes. A notable trail is the Trail from Torre Dodaro to Caporosa, which winds through woods and clearings. For more options, explore the Easy hikes around Lake Ampollino guide, which includes routes like the 'Lake Ampollino loop from Villaggio Baffa'.

Are there any historical or cultural sites to visit near the lake?

Yes, for those interested in art and culture, the MABOS - Sila Forest Art Museum offers a unique experience. Additionally, archaeological remains related to mining and metallurgy have been discovered on the banks of the lake, hinting at the region's historical activities. The Lago Ampollino Dam itself is a significant historical landmark, inaugurated in 1927 for hydroelectric purposes.

Is Lake Ampollino a good destination for families?

Absolutely. Many attractions and activities around Lake Ampollino are family-friendly. The Lago Ampollino Lakeside Cycle Path is suitable for families, and the general natural environment provides ample space for children to explore. Mountain tourist villages like Villaggio Palumbo also offer amenities and activities that cater to families.

Can I bring my dog to the attractions around Lake Ampollino?

Yes, many areas around Lake Ampollino are dog-friendly. For instance, the Trail from Torre Dodaro to Caporosa is explicitly noted as dog-friendly, passing through woods and clearings. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment.

What is the best time of year to visit Lake Ampollino?

Lake Ampollino offers attractions year-round. Summer is ideal for cycling and hiking, with numerous routes available. During winter, the nearby Camigliatello Silano ski resort attracts skiing and winter sports enthusiasts, making it a great destination for those looking for snow activities in a unique Mediterranean mountain climate.

Are there any winter activities available near Lake Ampollino?

Yes, in winter, the area is home to the Camigliatello Silano ski resort. This resort attracts skiing and winter sports enthusiasts with its well-prepared facilities and picturesque location in the Sila massif. It's particularly suitable for local skiing enthusiasts and beginners.

Where can I find accommodation or places to eat around Lake Ampollino?

Around the lake's shores, you'll find important mountain tourist villages such as Trepidò, Villaggio Mancuso, and Villaggio Palumbo. These villages typically offer accommodation options and places to eat. Some lakeside areas also have structures that provide shelter and dining opportunities.

How was Lake Ampollino formed?

Lake Ampollino is an artificial reservoir created by damming the Ampollino River. The Lago Ampollino Dam was built between 1916 and 1927 for hydroelectric purposes, blocking the river's course and forming the lake.

What wildlife can I expect to see around Lake Ampollino?

The area around Lake Ampollino is a haven for wildlife. You might spot deer, wild boars, various waterfowl, and birds of prey. The tranquil environment, with its reed beds and water lilies, provides a rich habitat for these animals.

Are there any easy walking paths suitable for all abilities?

Yes, there are easy walking paths available. For example, the Easy hikes around Lake Ampollino guide lists several routes, including the 'Cycle Path Along the Lake loop from Villaggio Baffa', which is an easy, shorter option suitable for a relaxed stroll.

What are the surrounding mountains like?

Lake Ampollino is enveloped by the Sila mountains, featuring notable peaks such as Scorciavuoi (1627m), Gariglione (1623m), Zingomarro (1463m), and Monte Nero (1747m). These mountains are characterized by extensive forests of pines, beeches, and firs, creating a distinctive Mediterranean mountain landscape.

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