Set just an hour northwest of Rome, volcanic Lake Bracciano has long been a beloved retreat for city-weary Romans while remaining largely off the international tourist radar. A popular shore excursion destination from Civitavecchia (or stopover between Rome and Orvieto), the lake is ringed by medieval villages like Bracciano, Anguillara, and Trevignano and its placid expanse is ideal for swimming, sailing, and water sports. The 15th-century Odescalchi Castle looms over the lake, and has served as a dramatic wedding venue for celebrities from Martin Scorsese to Tom Cruise.
When the mercury skyrockets, Romans (and savvy visitors) seek refuge at Lake Bracciano. In the summer high season, urban escapees fill the medieval villages along the shore, hike and bike in the surrounding trails, and set sail across the water. The area’s main festivals take place between June and August and include the Sagra del Pesce (fish festival), Laghidivini (wine festival), Processione delle Barche (boat procession), and Festa Contadina (farmers’ festival).
The lake is less than an hour from Rome by car or train; there are stations in the towns of Bracciano and Anguillara Sabazia. To visit the third village on the lake, Trevignano Romano, take the local Cotral bus that runs along the shore. You can also cycle around the entire lake in less than two hours; there are bicycle and e-bike rental shops in all three villages.
Bracciano is an important reservoir of fresh water for the city of Rome, so motorized boats are banned from its waters (with the exception of electric boats and local ferries). This makes the lake an especially safe and peaceful spot for sailing, windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and other water sports. There are kiosks that rent gear and offer lessons along the lakefront in all three villages.
