A GUIDE TO UMBRIA’S MAJESTIC LAKES AND MYSTIC RIVERS

As a complement to my post about Umbria’s hidden waterfalls and our visit to Lago Piediluco, I wanted to explore the region’s lakes and rivers. Join me to admire the Gole del Forello, the canyons formed by the Tiber River. Discover the history of Stifone, where water has played a significant role in the local economy for centuries, with water mills and hydroelectric power stations. Take a ferryboat and explore the three islands of Lago Trasimeno while tasting local delicacies. Visit the Alviano Oasis for bird watching and nature photography, or enjoy sailing, canoeing, and water skiing at Piediluco Lake and Nera River Park. You can read about all of this in my post or experience it firsthand during the summer months.

Gole del Forello: Marvel at the Beauty of Umbria’s Canyons

One of Umbria’s most stunning natural wonders is the Gole del Forello, a spectacular canyon that runs alongside the Forello River. The canyon is a popular spot for hiking and climbing, with its towering walls and rushing waterfalls providing a breathtaking backdrop. Visitors can also enjoy swimming and kayaking in the river’s crystal-clear waters. The Gole del Forello is a must-see for any adventurous traveler looking to experience the raw beauty of Umbria’s landscape. But be warned: the trails can be challenging, so make sure to come prepared with sturdy hiking boots and plenty of water.

Stifone: Discover the Past of Umbria’s Hydroelectric Stations and Water-Mills

Another hidden gem in Umbria’s waterways is the Stifone, an area rich in history and culture. Here, visitors can explore the remnants of ancient watermills and hydroelectric stations that once powered the region’s industries. The Stifone also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and mountains, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

While the Stifone may not provide the adrenaline rush of the Gole del Forello, it offers a unique opportunity to delve into Umbria’s past and learn about the region’s industrial heritage. As you explore the area, imagine the sound of rushing water powering the mills and factories that once defined Umbria’s economy.

A wonderful place to stop for lunch in the area is the rustic road-stop eatery called DA NICOLETTA. This unassuming trattoria looks like a trucker’s pit stop nestled at the side of the road. But a few steps down, you’ll find yourself at tables perched on the riverside, admiring the enchanting turquoise waters that, with a little imagination, will transport you deep into the forests of Costa Rica. Coupled with delicious, homemade Umbrian fare, I found it a little slice of heaven. (To avoid disappointment, reserve a riverside table in advance.)

Lake Trasimeno: Take a Boat Ride and Sample Local Delicacies

Italy’s fourth-largest lake is a great place to visit. The shores are peppered with quaint medieval towns, like Castiglione del Lago, San Feliciano, and Tuoro sul Lago, offering a rich tapestry of history and art and local cuisine featuring the famed lentils and beans grown on the slopes surrounding the lake as well as fish, fresh from the waters. One of my favourite eateries is Osteria Rosso di Sera in San Feliciano, with its fab eclectic dining room with stunning views of the lake (especially at sunset) and equally exciting menu offering exciting twists on classic Trasimeno cuisine, along with an extremely energised and entertaining owner. The lake is also an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, offering activities such as kite surfing, sailing, and swimming. For the more adventurous, there are guides to help you explore the many secret coves and hidden areas of the lake.

No matter your goal in visiting Lake Trasimeno, one thing is for certain: you won’t be disappointed. With its exquisite beauty, diverse activities, and rich history, the lake offers an experience not to be missed.

Alviano Oasis: Birdwatching and stunning photo-ops

After appreciating the vastness of Lake Trasimeno, venture to the Alviano Oasis for a birdwatching and photography experience unlike any other. Nestled in the Tiber River Valley, the Alviano Oasis boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a terrific destination for bird enthusiasts or amateur and professional photographers.

This nature reserve is home to a wide variety of birds, including grey herons, black storks, purple herons, common snipes, and a collection of other species rarely found elsewhere. With the help of guided tours, visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the area’s local ecosystem and observe these beautiful birds in their natural habitat, which is classified as a protected nature reserve by the WWF.

Piediluco Lake and Nera River Park: Experience the thrill of whitewater rapids.

After spending some time at the Alviano Oasis, it’s time to cool off and experience some water sports at Lake Piediluco and the Nera River Park, also home to stunning Marmore Falls. This adventurer’s paradise offers a unique opportunity for visitors to enjoy the great outdoors at their own pace or whilst indulging in some more adrenalin-fueled activities. This whole area is also beautifully picturesque, so it’s no wonder it was a sought-after spot for artists to come and paint during the Grand Tours of the last century.

Rowing enthusiasts can take advantage of the calm waters of the lakes, while those looking for a more leisurely ride can rent a canoe or peddalo. There is also a wonderful rowing club called Societa’ Canottieri Piediluco with a pool, restaurant, and tennis court. You can simply pay for a day pass to use the facilities. Besides the club, you’ll find a variety of bars and restaurants, including Ara Marina a wonderfully delicious eatery with stunning views of the lake, and TRE7 right in the heart of Piediluco town. Here, you can relax with an aperitivo and the most delicious Neapolitan pizza.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, white water rafting or tubing is a must-try activity on the Nera River For all the watery activities on offer, check out RAFTING NERA. No matter what water sport you choose, you’ll be surrounded by stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters.

Lago di Bolsena: The largest Volcanic lake in Europe

Although this lake is not in Umbria, it deserves a mention as it is practically on the region’s doorstep. This lake of immense beauty is in the northern part of the province of Viterbo and is the largest volcanic lake in Europe. Formed by the Vulsini volcano and thought to have been active as recently as 104 BC, the two islands in the southern part of the lake were the results of underwater eruptions.

But what makes this lake extra special is its breathtaking beauty. The clear, aquamarine water not only reflects the nearby rolling hills and lush green forests; it has inspired photographers, artists, and writers of all kinds throughout the centuries. In particular, breathtaking sunsets have been immortalized in the work of some of the world’s greatest painters, including Dutch painter Claude Lorrain, who captured the lake in his 1635 painting, ‘View of the Lake Bolsena.

Contrasting with the idyllic beauty of the lake, its history has seen considerable conflict and turmoil. In 1537, a gruesome battle occurred on the lake between the armies of the Pope and the German Landgrave Phillip I of Hesse, resulting in over 10,000 deaths and the infamous ‘Black Sunday’.

Today, visitors to Lake Bolsena will find an incredibly peaceful setting that stands in stark contrast to its turbulent past. Boating, sailing, swimming, fishing, and strolling along the lakeside roads are just a few of the popular activities enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Not surprisingly, the lake is also home to a variety of unique flora and fauna, including the white heron and a rare species of crab found only in Lake Bolsena.

I do hope this post has inspired you to visit some of Umbria’s lakes and rivers in person. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or an adrenaline junkie, there’s something for people of all abilities to enjoy. And note, everywhere we went on this adventure, we found attendants and locals ready, willing, and able to ensure we had the very best of times. Whether you are a local looking for a new day-out adventure or a visitor from further afield, I do hope you have the chance to experience some of these watery, natural treasures.