Italy boasts urban marvels like the Colosseum and the canals of Venice, the rolling hills of Tuscany and the stunning Amalfi coastline. But as well as these famed treasures, you'll also find hidden gems formed by the fiery forces of nature – volcanic lakes.
Nestled amidst luscious surroundings, these bodies of water offer a glimpse into Italy's geological history while serving as havens for sustainable and environmentally conscious travel.
Join us as we explore Italy's beautiful volcanic lakes, from the vast waters of Lakes Bolsena and Bracciano to the lesser-known shores of Lakes Martignano and Vico. Here's how to reach them, what to do, and where to camp nearby.
Lake Albano is a small volcanic crater lake in the Alban Hills. It is situated at the foot of Monte Cavo, just 20 kilometres southeast of Rome.
A particular highlight is Castel Gandolfo, which overlooks the lake and is famed as one of Italy's most picturesque towns.
Plunging to depths of 170 metres, Lake Albano is the deepest lake in the Lazio region. It was formed by two overlapping volcanic craters, leaving a 70-metre ridge in the lake's centre.
In fascinating history, Plutarch described the lake surging over the surrounding countryside and destroying fields and Vineyards in 406 BC – despite a lack of recent rain. Today, it's thought that trapped volcanic gases caused the surge.
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Lake Albano is easily accessible via public transport, with trains and buses to Albano from Rome.
Why not make the most of your trip to the City of Seven Hills and stay in a campsite right on the city's edge? Picturesquely placed on a hilltop, Camping Village Roma is ideal for travellers exploring Rome and the surrounding countryside.
Steeped in ancient mythology, Lake Avernus is a small volcanic crater lake. It's located near Naples, near the "Phlegraean Fields", forming part of the larger Campanian volcanic arc.
Two kilometres in circumference and 60 metres deep, Avernus was incredibly important to the Romans. They believed it was the entrance to Hades, the underworld.
Despite these dark links, Roman villas, temples, and vineyards adorned the lake's shores. There was even a large bathhouse on the eastern edge of the lake.
Today, Lake Avernus continues to captivate visitors with its mystique and natural beauty.
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To get to Lake Avernus, hop on a train from Naples to nearby Pozzuoli, a pleasant 5-kilometre stroll from the lake. Carrying on up the coast, stay at Varca d'Oro Napoli Village – a wonderful campsite set amidst Mediterranean pine wood with access to a private beach.
With its expansive surface area of 113 square kilometres, Lake Bolsena is the largest volcanic lake in Italy and a testament to the power of nature's regeneration.
Surrounded by charming medieval towns and fertile vineyards, it offers a serene retreat for eco-conscious travellers. There are beaches with tree-lined meadows and a mix of pebbles, stones, and black volcanic sand shelving gradually flowing into the lake – perfect for laidback swims.
There's evidence of activity from the Vulsini volcano as late as 104 BC. But thankfully, it's been dormant ever since! The two large islands in the southern part of Lake Bolsena formed from underwater eruptions of the volcano – following the collapse of the main magmatic chamber that created the lake.
To reach Lake Bolsena, try a regional train from Rome to Orvieto, followed by a bus or taxi to the lake's shores. Once you're there, there are four campsites in the historic town of Bolsena.
Choose from the picturesque Camping Massimo, the rustic Camping Internazionale Il Lago, bijou Blu International Camping or the well-equipped Lido Camping Village.
Located just northwest of Rome, Lake Bracciano is a tranquil oasis spanning just over 56 square kilometres. It's the second largest lake in the Lazio region, behind Lake Bolsena.
Formed 600,000 to 400,000 years ago in a depression from a dormant volcano, its pristine waters beckon visitors seeking respite from the bustle of Rome (just 30 kilometres away).
Motorised boats (except for a few fishing vessels) are strictly prohibited on the lake, which is great for sailing, canoeing, and swimming. It's also protected by a regional park, Parco Regionale del complesso lacuale di Bracciano Martignano, ensuring the lake stays a natural haven for generations to come.
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There are four campsites on the shores of Lake Bracciano, so visitors are spoilt for choice.
Camping Internazionale Lago di Bracciano lies on the eastern edge, with some pitches directly alongside a private beach. There's a regular local bus service and a nearby train station with direct links to Rome.
On the western shore, you'll find three fantastic sites with magnificent views of the lake: Camping Porticciolo, Camping Azzurro and Camping Roma Flash. Again, local trains and buses will take you to the heart of Rome.
Tucked away in the Roman countryside, the small but perfectly formed Lake Martignano offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Found just east of Lake Bracciano, its clear waters are ideal for swimming, kayaking and picnicking amidst pristine natural surroundings.
Formed in an extinct crater or "maar", the lake has a fascinating history. The Roman Emperor Augustus used it to supply his "naumachia" (a lake used for fake naval battles). Today, you'll find calmer pursuits, with a lakeside cafe, meadow beaches, hiking trails and restaurants.
Sustainable travel options include regional trains from Rome to nearby towns like Anguillara Sabazia, followed by a short bus ride or scenic 4.5-kilometre hike to the lake. There aren't any campsites directly on the shores of Lake Martignano, so your best bet is to stay by the larger Lake Bracciano.
Nestled within the crater of an extinct volcano (formed at least 36,000 years ago), Lake Nemi's tranquil waters are steeped in ancient mythology. Also known as "Diana's Mirror", this small circular lake in the Alban Hills lies just south of Lake Albano.
The lake is officially named after the nearby town of Nemi that overlooks the site (and is well worth a trip).
Surrounded by lush forests and archaeological sites, Lake Nemi offers visitors a glimpse into Italy's rich cultural heritage. Indeed, it's known for its unique sunken Roman ships, built under the infamous Emperor Caligula.
Hitch a train or bus from Rome straight to Nemi. It's then a short stroll to the lake.
For camping nearby, try Camping Internazionale Castelfusano. It's ideally situated for a beach holiday, just an hour away from the iconic sights of Rome.
Nestled amidst the Cimini Mountains, Lake Vico offers a picturesque escape with its crystalline waters and verdant surroundings. At 510 metres altitude, it's one of the highest volcanic lakes.
Spanning over 12 square kilometres, this beautiful volcanic lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. You'll find plenty of hiking trails, water sports, beautiful forests and abundant wildlife nearby.
As legend goes, Hercules formed the lake. Defying residents, he wielded his club and created a stream feeding Lake Vico.
In reality, the lake formed in the caldera of the Vico Volcano – with a volcanic cone built in many eruptions between 305,000 and 258,000 years ago. Later large pyroclastic flows and volcanic ash (around 138,000 years ago) caused the volcano's central cone to collapse.
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Visitors can access Lake Vico by taking a train from Rome to Orte, followed by a bus to the lake. A peaceful campsite (Capitello Camping) is just 20 minutes from Orte, near the historic village of Otricoli.
As the experts in European camping and caravanning holidays, explore our extensive list of Alan Rogers approved campsites throughout Italy. There's something for everyone, from peaceful lakeside getaways to bustling city-centre breaks, back-to-nature sites or luxurious glamping.
Peter Stannett
Content Writer
Peter is a key part of our creative team; he's a multifaceted individual with a deep love for cooking, travel, and music.
While he does a stellar job of keeping our content fresh, focusing on SEO and monitoring website traffic, his heart truly belongs to the world of culinary delights, exploration, and his guitar.
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