Italian Lakes for a Day Trip

September is still the time to treat yourself to moments of sun in the open air near the water — what better way than a trip to a lake?

Lakes have attracted and fascinated tourists throughout history, since the golden days of the Roman Empire. These lakes are ideal for a day out or for an entire relaxing holiday in the wonderful hotels of the area. There are countless activities to do at the lake, but here are 6 of the most beautiful lakes in Italy.

6Lake Bracciano

Lake Bracciano is a magnet for water sports enthusiasts. It is a great place to dive, fish, canoe, windsurf, sunbathe or swim. Sailing boats are allowed, but they can carry no more than four people. Lake Bracciano is surrounded by a park that also offers a variety of outdoor activities. The lake was formed by volcanic action, and the lake's waters provide a reservoir of drinking water for Rome. If you get tired of the outdoor life, take a stroll around the charming village of Bracciano with its old castle.

5Lake Iseo

Northern Italy is a magnificent place to visit medieval towns, and a visit to Lake Iseo can offer a relaxing break. Surrounded by vineyards and woods, Lake Iseo is considered a hidden pearl among the Italian lakes. First of all, it is much quieter since it is not very open to mass tourism, although it is just as beautiful as its larger siblings, Lakes Como and Garda. Take a boat trip to the picturesque Monte Isola, the largest populated island in a lake in southern Europe, with no cars, but you can ride a mule up to the chapel.

4Lake Orta

Journalists, from Balzac and Browning to more modern writers, call Lake Orta a spell and a secret gem among the lakes of northern Italy. The landscape is truly beautiful, with Isola San Giulio punctuating it like an exclamation mark. (San Giulio is the patron saint of the region). The island is perfect for a pleasant, romantic stroll along its cobbled streets. Don't forget to visit the 12th-century basilica or the colourful market. If it's serenity you're looking for, end your search at Lake Orta, a sea of tranquillity set among woods and mountains, about an hour's drive from bustling Milan.

3Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore is a lake disputed between Italy and Switzerland. The second largest lake in Italy lies on the southern side of the Alps. It has a Mediterranean climate, which allows exotic plants to be grown. The lake is particularly beautiful when the flowers bloom on the hills. A good way to see this 64 km-long lake and its islands is to take the Mottarone cable car up into the mountains. You can also take a relaxing cruise on the lake or even cycle all the way around it.

2Lake Garda

Lake Garda, created by glacial action, is the largest lake in Italy. This picturesque lake, surrounded by mountains, is a very popular destination. The lake contains several islands, including Isola del Garda, where St. Francis of Assisi founded a monastery in 1220. The lake to the north has features similar to a Norwegian fjord, deep blue waters and mountains surrounding it. With a ferry it becomes fun to travel between the towns on the lake. Orange and lemon trees and olive groves line its shores, adding a nice touch of charm. The lake is popular with motorcyclists, boaters, windsurfers and those who prefer to stroll through the picturesque villages of the island.

1Lake Como

Loved by celebrities all over the world, Lake Como has been a tourist magnet since the Romans, who built the first villas on the lake. Many celebrities have holiday homes on the lake — who knows, maybe you'll see George Clooney with his twins. But if the lake is what interests you, you should know that it is one of the deepest in Europe, with points 400 metres deep. Travellers come here for its wonderful landscape, to explore Villa Carlotta or to get an ice cream in the town of Como. The ferry service connects the villages along the lake.