
Lake Bolsena
Volcanic lake with islands and charming shoreline villages
Lake Bolsena is the largest volcanic lake in Europe, formed in the crater of an extinct volcano that was active 370,000 years ago. With a circumference of 43 kilometers and a maximum depth of 151 meters, this pristine lake is known for its crystal-clear waters, black volcanic sand beaches, and the two picturesque islands at its center: Bisentina and Martana.
The lake is surrounded by charming medieval towns and fishing villages, each with its own character and history. Bolsena, the largest town on the lake's eastern shore, features a beautiful historic center with the impressive Monaldeschi Castle and the Basilica of Santa Cristina, site of the famous Corpus Christi miracle in 1263.
Capodimonte, on the southern shore, is known for its peninsula jutting into the lake and its 16th-century Farnese Fortress. Marta, a traditional fishing village, is famous for its distinctive fishing technique using wicker baskets called "coregone."
The volcanic soil around Lake Bolsena creates exceptionally fertile land, producing excellent olive oil, wine, and vegetables. The lake itself is rich in fish, including pike, perch, and the prized coregone (whitefish).
Lake Bolsena offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and gastronomic experiences. Its relatively undiscovered status compared to other Italian lakes means visitors can enjoy its tranquil atmosphere and authentic local culture without crowds.
Gallery



Highlights
- 1Bisentina and Martana Islands - Picturesque islands with rich history
- 2Town of Bolsena - Medieval center with Monaldeschi Castle and Basilica of Santa Cristina
- 3Capodimonte - Peninsula town with the 16th-century Farnese Fortress
- 4Marta - Traditional fishing village with distinctive fishing techniques
- 5Black Volcanic Beaches - Unique shoreline formed by volcanic activity
Location
Lake Bolsena is located at coordinates: 42.5933, 11.93
Plan a Route Including Lake BolsenaInteractive map available on the Routes page
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